Freight Broker Jobs Overview
Freight brokers play a crucial role in the shipping industry, helping businesses export their goods and materials across the country. They're responsible for ensuring freight shipments get to their proper destinations on time while complying with all local, state, and federal laws. Essentially, they serve as a liaison between shippers and carriers. It's a great time to look for freight broker jobs as the U.S. freight brokerage market is significantly increasing while advancements in technology integration continue to fuel this sector.
Depending on your interests and goals, you could work for a freight broker in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, e-commerce, aerospace, automotive, or medical. There are a variety of careers to choose from in this field, and many offer remote working opportunities. Here are some of the most popular roles to consider:
- Freight agent – helps with the logistics of moving cargo under the supervision of a licensed freight broker. They make sales, negotiate contract terms, document and track shipments, and ensure all cargo logistics adhere to existing laws and regulations.
- Shipping and receiving clerk – handles the shipment and receipt of all materials, products, and supplies. They also unload trucks, maintain inventory, and oversee quality control procedures.
- Account manager – responsible for developing and managing customer relationships. They negotiate carrier prices, analyze market trends, bring new business, and handle client complaints.
- Sales executive – contacts new shippers by cold-calling, creates presentations, and develops new business opportunities. They also provide reporting, file closings, and budgeting.
Are you open to other administrative jobs? Check out these similar positions:
Training and Skills for Freight Broker Jobs
You'll typically need a high school diploma to apply for an entry-level job in a freight brokerage or transportation company. If you're interested in a management role, some employers may require you to have an associate or bachelor's degree in business or logistics and supply chain management.
You'll also need a forklift certification if you’re required to operate a forklift or other machinery as part of your job. Candidates who obtain professional certifications have a competitive edge when applying for jobs. A certification can help you hone your skills, advance your career, and increase your salary.
To be successful in a freight broker job, you'll need the following essential skills:
- negotiation skills
- critical thinking
- attention to detail
- problem-solving
- excellent customer service
- time management
- strong communication
- familiarity with industry software
Update Your Resume for a Freight Broker Job
Does your resume need an overhaul? We've got all the help you need to stir the interest of a hiring manager. Use industry-appropriate action verbs to highlight your skills and accomplishments and help put your resume at the top of the pile. We have a sample logistics resume with ideas on formatting, language, and keyword placement. For more general advice, check out our resume writing tips.
Need some guidance on writing that all-important cover letter? Use our logistics cover letter sample to help you make a great first impression.
Interviewing for Freight broker Jobs
To prepare yourself for a freight broker job interview, spend some time practicing your answers to commonly asked questions. While you can never know exactly what the hiring manager may ask you, having a general understanding of the types of questions will make it less nerve-wracking. Using the STAR method can help you structure your answers intelligently and cohesively.
How Much Does a Freight Broker Job Pay?
Before you apply for a freight broker role, do some research into what it pays. Salaries vary depending on the position and your employer. For example, a shipping/receiving clerk makes a median salary of $14.33 per hour, whereas a cargo coordinator/freight forwarder makes $19 per hour.
Check out Monster's Salary Tool to learn more about what you can make in your location. You can find job listings here as well as salaries for similar jobs.
Want to Learn More About a Company That Interests You?
Before your next interview, research the company you're applying to on our company profiles page to ensure they align with your values and goals. Use this information to prepare your own questions and gain insight into their corporate culture. You can learn about the following:
- company size and overview
- current job listings
- mission statement
- benefits offered
Shift Your Job Search into High Gear with Help from Monster
Ready to get on the fast track to finding freight broker jobs? Just sign up for a free profile on Monster and upload your resume to get in front of recruiters in your field. We also send you job alerts and expert career advice to help you get on the road to success and climb the career ladder.