How to Become a Freight Broker in North Carolina

Are you considering a career as a freight broker in North Carolina?

Well, you’ve come to the right place.

This guide will inform you about everything there is to know from education to licensing required to become a freight broker in your state.

Freight brokers have a huge role when it comes to making sure that freight is properly transported from one location to another.

If you think you have what it takes to become a freight broker, continue reading.

Freight Broker Job Details in North Carolina

The main job of a freight broker, no matter what state you work in, is to act as a partnership between carriers and shippers when it comes to transporting cargo.

Many times, you will find that freight brokers take part in marketing to gain new clients.

They are also responsible for connecting new customers with carriers, scheduling orders, and more.

Here are some of the additional responsibilities of a freight broker:

• Create new leads and prospects
• Find reputable carriers for freight services
• Provide shipping costs to customers
• Schedule and book orders with carrier services
• Help in preparing for loads
• Keep track of load status
• Work with carriers, shippers, and dispatchers to track pickups and drop-offs
• Maintain accurate records of all shipping activity
• Keep customers updated on shipment status
• Stay on top of market trends

Licensing Requirements to Become a Freight Broker in North Carolina

Some of the most important skills that are needed in order to become a freight broker include:

• Excellent computer skills, specifically with Microsoft Office Suites
• Problem-solving skills
• Communication skills
• Great with people
• Negotiating skills
• Capable of meeting sales targets

All individuals must obtain a license in the state of North Carolina in order to become a freight broker.

You must have a clean record, be at least 18 years old, have a surety bond, have a registered business in North Carolina, and be able to pass a background check.

Apply for USDOT Number

You must first apply for your USDOT number which will be used to identify you and your business.

You can’t go any further without having this number.

Apply for a License via FMCSA

You will then need to apply to obtain your license through FMCSA.

You must complete Forms MC-1 and OP-1.

These forms can be found online.

These forms must be submitted along with a $300 application fee.

Proof of Liability Insurance

You will also be required to show proof of liability insurance when you submit your FMCSA forms.

Show Proof of Surety Bond or Trust Fund Agreement

The last step in the application process is to submit a trust fund agreement a freight broker bond in the amount of $75,000.

You must do this before you are able to appoint a process agent.

Freight Broker Programs

There are a number of schools both online and in-person where you can obtain the education you need to become a freight broker in North Carolina.

Transportation Academy

1340 Environ Way l Chapel Hill, NC 27517

At Transportation Academy, you will attend a six-hour course as you are taught how to launch your very own freight brokerage company.

Here, you will also learn the duties of a broker, seller, buyer, and carrier.

You will also be taught how to obtain your license as a freight broker.

For payments, you have a couple of options.

You can either make two payments of $999 or make one payment of $1,999.000 for just one month.

NCCentral University

1801 Fayetteville St l Durham, NC 27707

If you’re interested in remote online courses to learn all you can about becoming a freight broker, NCCentral University provides these courses.

Here, you will learn the ins and outs of the industry from people who actually have experience as freight brokers.

You can start anytime.

The entire course will take six months to complete.

The cost for the program is $1,895.00.

There are payment plans available.

You will learn everything from the basics of freight brokering to insurance for brokers and carriers.

Freight Brokers Schools in North Carolina – Summary Table

Salary

The average salary for a freight broker in North Carolina is $34,322.

However, the salary can range anywhere between $32,253 and $36,426.

There are many factors that play into the amount of salary you may receive.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Charlotte	$46,831
Raleigh	$46,727
Greensboro	$45,815
Durham	$46,448
Winston-Salem	$45,974
Fayetteville	$43,989
Cary	$46,727
High Point	$46,089
Wilmington	$44,157
Asheville	$44,067

Regional Salary in North Carolina

* 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

Do all freight brokers need a degree or license to operate in North Carolina?

There’s no need to have a degree to work as a broker in the state.

But, you must apply to obtain a license from FMCSA.

What is the average salary for a freight broker in North Carolina?

On average, freight brokers can make up to $55,000 annually.

While this number is above the national average of $48,420, it definitely makes North Carolina the perfect location for this type of career.

What training programs are available to become a freight broker in North Carolina?

There are several programs available in North Carolina if you are considering a career as a freight broker.

Courses are offered at The University of North Carolina, Freight Broker Boot Camp, Global Precision Logistics, and several others.

Freight Broker Info by State