How to Become a Freight Broker in Louisiana

When considering a new career, the prospect of becoming a freight broker in Louisiana is a bright one.

These professionals provide a vital role in the shipping industry.

They are responsible for the planning and supervision of shipments from one point to another.

This requires attention to detail and excellent communication skills as the freight broker relays information between the shipper and the carrier.

This is a challenging and rewarding career.

Duties of a Freight Broker

There are many duties that freight brokers undertake including:

• Tracking shipments and dealing with issues as they occur.
• Locating carriers that with the correct specialized equipment through directories and boards.
• Negotiating pricing between the transportation and the shipper.
• Maintaining all paperwork related to shipments, payments, and invoices. It may also include some bookkeeping.
• Keeping current on changes in transportation laws and trends in the shipping industry.

Licensing Requirements to Become a Freight Broker in Louisiana

While this may be a great career, you still need to have a freight broker license to work.

First, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a GED.

While you are in the application process, there are also several other things that you will need to become qualified.

These include:

• A USDOT Number and USDOT PIN
• An MC Number
• Freight Broker Bond
• Insurance
• Process Agent

Getting Started

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the agency that handles all freight broker licenses.

In order to operate legally, you need an Operating Authority from the agency.  

From FMCSA, you can get your United States Department of Transportation Number (USDOT number) and a USDOT Personal Identification Number (PIN).

These can be done through their website. You will need a credit card to go through the process, but you will not be charged.

The Next Step

Getting your MC (Motor Carrier Number) is the next step.

This is also through FMCSA using the OP1-application to become a Broker Authority.

This step does require a fee so check your application for any errors before you send it.

The online application is responded to immediately with a letter following in a few weeks.

Get the Insurance Coverage You Need

To begin working you will also need a surety bond and legal agent documents with FMCSA.

These documents need to be filed within 90 days of your application.

You will also need a freight broker bond (BMC-84 bond).

You need to get this through a surety company in Louisiana for at least $75,000.

If you have good credit, the cost will be 1-5% of the value of the bond.

Expect to pay between $750-3,750 for this. 

If your credit is not so good, talk with them about the fees that you should expect.

A Processing Agent in Louisiana is a Must

Once you have all the paperwork and insurance in place, you need a processing agent.

This is a person who will provide you with legal representation if a claim is filed against you.

Again, the form needs to be submitted to FMCSA.

This is a safety measure should anything happen.

Training Programs in Louisiana

A training program is not a requirement, but it helps you build the skills you need to operate effectively.

Also, it’s a bonus when applying for a job.

Some of the schools in Louisiana include:

• Freight Movers School
• Brooke Transportation Training Solutions
• Louisiana State University Eunice
• Delgado Community College

Salary Expectations as a Freight Broker

In Louisiana, the average salary is $35,191 each year.

However, salaries vary based on the location in the state.

For instance, in Baton Rouge and Houma, the salaries average $65,583 and $64,085 respectively.

Salaries in Mandeville, Lafayette, Lake Charles, and New Orleans range from $59,790 to $54,460. 

That makes it important to consider where you decide to start your business.

This is a position that is in demand due to the volume of things that need to be shipped daily and the need to speed up shipments through the supply chain.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
New Orleans	$46,934
Baton Rouge	$45,054
Shreveport	$44,076
Lafayette	$43,710
Lake Charles	$43,442
Kenner	$46,909
Bossier City	$44,076
Monroe	$43,174
Alexandria	$42,474
New Iberia	$43,454

Regional Salary in Louisiana

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Cargo and Freight Agents, OCC Code 43-5011, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Expensive is it to Become a Freight Broker in Louisiana?

On average, it will take approximately $1,450 to become a licensed freight broker.

This is the bare minimum.

Other costs will include if you decide to go to a freight broker school and need a computer and internet access.

Additional costs include office space and marketing.

How Stressful is Working as a Freight Broker?

The work requires you to pay attention to your freights and be able to communicate between the shipper and the carrier.

Also, you will have to sometimes work to find the appropriate carrier for the shipper.

I want to Become a Shipping Broker. How Long Does It Take?

Most people can complete all of these requirements in about two to three months.

Keep your documents in order and if possible, file for certificates online.

This helps speed up the process overall.

If you do decide to attend a freight broker school, this timeline will be extended but you will receive the education that you need.

It’s a time and expense that you need to consider.

Freight Broker Info by State