Get Freight Broker Training in Maryland
The transportation industry is an important part of the country’s economy, and freight brokers are an integral part of this system. The job of a freight broker is to connect shippers with manufacturers and manage all aspects of getting the shipment from one location to another. They arrange transportation, ensure goods are loaded in the proper order, and deal with permits and customs as well as scheduling and other logistics. This fast-growing field is a lucrative opportunity for anyone wishing to start an at-home-business.
Maryland exported $12.1 billion worth of goods in 2018, accounting for 2.9 percent of the state’s GDP. In 2016, Maryland’s exports supported an estimated 45,000 jobs within the state. Furthermore, jobs supported by goods pay approximately 18 percent higher than the national average for other industries. Considering these facts, a career as a freight broker feels like a pretty good bet. Below, you’ll find the information you need to get started in this career field.
Licensing for Freight Brokers in Maryland
While Maryland does not have an oversight board for freight brokers, nor is a state license required, there is federal oversight for those wishing to conduct business in the field. Freight brokerages are required to have both a USDOT number and a Motor Carrier (MC) number. Both of these are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration(FMCSA) and can be applied for by anyone meeting the following qualifications:
- Applicants must possess a high school diploma or equivalent and be trained as a freight broker.
- Companies applying must have a business name as well as a structure of agents who will act as freight brokers.
- A $300 application fee is required and must be submitted with an application (new businesses will need to apply for the USDOT number and MC number simultaneously).
Applications can take four to eight weeks for processing, as a background check is part of the procedure. Once both numbers have been obtained, you will be free to work as a freight broker.
Where Do Freight Brokers Train in Maryland?
Due to the complexities of the job, freight brokers must undergo training either on the job or through a reputable training program. Following is a list of some important points to look for in a training curriculum:
- An overview of the career including information on setting up a business and an explanation of how agencies work
- Specifics on transportation laws and regulations, and tips for keeping a business in compliance
- Insurance regulations including what types and how much are needed to keep an agency running
- Advice on management and the daily aspects of keeping a business running, which should include such topics as accounting, marketing and human resources
One such program, Ed2go, offers training in partnership with educational institutions throughout the state. In Maryland, the course is available at the following locations:
- UMBC Training Centers
- Community College of Baltimore County
- Anne Arundel Community College
- Alleghany College of Maryland
- Garrett College
- ACM Pennsylvania Workforce Training Center
- Hagerstown Community College
- Frederick Community College
- James Rumsey Technical Institute
- Wor-Wic Community College
- Delaware Technical Community College
- Chesapeake College
Just insert your zip code to find freight broker/agent training near you.
For those wishing to pursue additional certifications, the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) offers a Certified Transportation Broker (CTB) designation, which can be earned through the completion of an examination. Obtaining certification can be advantageous to anyone looking to showcase their professionalism to potential clients and remain competitive in the market. Additionally, membership in a professional organization such as the TIA allows for access to potentially helpful resources and networking.
What Salaries Should Freight Brokers in Maryland Expect?
Freight brokers in Maryland made an average annual salary of $ 42,820 in 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), with the top ten percent of the field earning $63,390. For those wishing to begin a freight brokerage in Maryland, these numbers show a promising range for business growth. It should also be mentioned that the above numbers reflect only salaries and not commissions, which have the potential to give a sizable bump to the reported incomes.
Working as a Freight Broker in Maryland
Generally, freight brokers have more opportunities in larger metropolitan areas where more manufacturing occurs. In Maryland, however, there is promise beyond its larger cities. In fact, the BLS website lists non-metropolitan areas in the state as collectively one of the highest concentrated areas with jobs for the profession. Either way, the state has a good outlook for those wishing to pursue a career as a freight broker.
You can also find freight broker training in West Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania and Virginia.