How to Become a Freight Broker in Missouri

Trucks hauling cargo across the United States are a typical sight on highways and roads.

These shipments are made possible by the carriers, the shippers, and the freight brokers.

When a manufacturer needs goods transported by truck, they contact a freight broker who looks for the most reliable carriers at the best price.

In addition to finding the best carriers to accommodate the shipment, specific details are provided and given to the shipper.

Given the number of goods shipped across the U.S. daily, especially from centrally located Missouri, becoming a freight broker offers job security and a healthy paycheck.

Keep reading to learn how to become a freight broker in Missouri.

Freight Broker Duties in Missouri

Being a freight broker in Missouri can be demanding since it requires constantly gaining new business while maintaining relationships with existing clients.

Additional freight broker responsibilities include:

• Finalizing all shipment details, including pickup and drop-off dates and times.
• Finding suitable carriers using a database or networking.
• Generating invoices.
• Monitoring the shipment’s progress and ensuring all steps are completed promptly and errorlessly.
• Overseeing payment processes.
• Negotiating shipment prices to ensure it’s fair for the shipper and carrier.
• Scheduling client appointments to discuss shipment details.
• Taking orders.
• Updating the client and carrier on the shipment’s status.

Licensing Requirements to Become a Freight Broker in Missouri

Currently, no specific licensure is required by Missouri.

However, like most other states, freight brokers must acquire a federal business license.

The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) offers the licensure, which is a part of the Department of Transportation.

Luckily, acquiring this license is an easy process, which includes the following steps:

1. Apply for a Department of Transportation number in the Unified Registration System.
2. Step Two: Acquire a Surety Bond of at least $75,000.
3. Designate a process agent (legal representative) to apply for registration using Form BOC-3.
4. Pay the $300 application fee.
5. Wait four to six weeks for the license to process.

Freight Broker Programs in Missouri

Although the State of Missouri doesn’t require a formal education, taking a program has many benefits to learning the industry, networking with other graduates, and improving your marketability among clients, carriers, and potential employers.

The typical course only requires one-to-two months of training, and some programs are available for under $100.

Furthermore, the training materials are available online for future reference once the education is completed.

Several of the most popular Missouri freight broker training programs include:

Brooke Training

Brooke Training offers an in-class training program in select cities and an online option for those who prefer distance learning.

The school has basic and advanced courses (both in-class), virtual, and online freight broker training.

The basic course is a five-day program that costs $2,500, while the advanced course is an intensive five-day program that costs $4,000.

Freight Movers School

Freight Movers School is an industry-leading freight broker online training program that offers two options: the basics online class and an in-depth program.

The self-paced basics class offers 19 recorded video sessions, including demonstration and lecture.

The in-depth version covers the basics, including how to start becoming a broker, securing loads from the shipper, negotiating, calculating rates, dispatching trucks, contracting and paperwork, and qualifying carriers. 

Northwest Missouri State University

Located in Maryville, NMSU offers an online-based freight brokering program with a curriculum from graduates and industry professionals with extensive experience.

During the program, students learn industry terminology, networking and customer service skills, entrepreneurial information, business, and how to market brokerage services to clients.

University of Central Missouri

The UCM freight broker program is also offered online as a self-paced course.

The curriculum teaches all aspects of the business, including how to establish and maintain a freight broker company, essential job responsibilities, marketing, industry terminology, and proper customer service knowledge.

Freight Brokers Schools in Missouri – Summary Table

Salary

The median yearly Missouri freight broker salary is $33,400, ranging from $31,400 to $35,500.

Comparatively, the median U.S. annual income is $35,100, with pay ranging from $33,000 to $37,200.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Kansas City	$47,014
St. Louis	$47,201
Springfield	$44,814
Independence	$46,963
Columbia	$46,658
St. Joseph	$46,561
Lee's Summit	$46,835
St. Charles	$46,946
St. Peters	$46,844
Florissant	$47,125

Regional Salary in Missouri

* 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

What type of hours does a Missouri freight broker require?

One of the most significant aspects of becoming a freight broker is the ability to set your schedule.

Freight brokers can even work from home during the hours they choose.

However, brokers must be available to take client and carrier calls, which could occur at any time, depending on their location, to ensure high customer service, leading to repeat business.

The total hours vary based on client and carrier demand and other factors.

Where do Missouri freight brokers bid on freight?

The most common method for freight brokers to bid on freight is through a load board, which typically requires a subscription.

Freight brokers will select loads that they can cover, those with available lanes and purview, and then place a bid.

The carrier chooses the proposal that best reflects their budget, timing, comfort with the broker based on previous experience, and several other factors.

Is becoming a freight broker in Missouri worth it?

Most freight brokers earn 10% to 35% profit on all shipments they manage.

This could range from $100 to $500 per shipment when entering the field.

However, once you gain experience and have better networking skills and contacts, brokers can earn as much as $5,175 per shipment.

Managing multiple shipments can be incredibly lucrative if you’re an incredibly experienced and good freight brokerage.

Freight Broker Info by State