Get Freight Broker Training in Nebraska
The work of freight brokers is integral to the transportation industry in this country and, as such, is currently a lucrative career field to enter. Freight brokers work to connect shippers with transpiration companies and manage all aspects of the shipment. This can include such tasks as ensuring that goods are loaded and shipped with the proper methods, securing permits, handling contracts, and dealing with customs and scheduling.
In 2018, Nebraska exported $8 billion worth of goods, an increase of 47 percent from its export level in 2008. Jobs supported by the export industry pay up to 18 percent higher than the national average for other industries. In 2016, the latest year of available data, Nebraska’s export industry accounted for an estimated 63,000 jobs. Not only is exporting a potentially money-making business opportunity, working as a freight broker has very good potential for those wishing to start an at-home-business.
Nebraska Licensing for Freight Brokers
Licensing for freight brokers is handled on the federal level, leaving no need for state licensure or oversight committee. Those wishing to begin a career as a freight broker must apply for a license through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Brokers will be required to have two numbers, a USDOT number and a Motor Carrier (MC) number. Applications take four to eight weeks to process. Prerequisites to apply include:
- Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by appropriate training in the career field.
- A business must be named and have a set structure of freight brokers who will be conducting business for the firm.
- Both numbers will be applied for simultaneously and require the submission of a $300 fee.
- The applicant will need to be able to pass a basic background check in order to be approved to receive their numbers.
Training and Certification for Nebraskan Freight Brokers
Although it is possible to acquire training as a freight broker on the job, a training program will allow for an in-depth look into the field. When searching for a program, it’s important to find one that provides training in all aspects of the career. A good freight broker program will include an overview of business management skills such as accounting and marketing, as well as information specific to freight brokers. The curriculum should include topics such as procuring the appropriate transportation vehicles for different types of loads, the legal and insurance requirements, how to maintain regulatory compliance, dealing with customs and permits, and contracting.
One popular program with offerings throughout the state of Nebraska is Ed2go. The program depends on partnerships with various educational institutions to make learning available to anyone. Locations accessible to Nebraskans are listed below:
- Southeast Community College
- Nebraska Business Development Center
- Metropolitan Community College
- Iowa Western Community 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 by passing an examination. Acquiring certifications such as this can help to propel your career forward by projecting an extra level of expertise and professionalism to potential clients. The TIA also has a membership program, which allows members access to additional resources to help them establish and run a business.
Salaries for Freight Brokers in Nebraska
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), freight brokers in Nebraska made an average annual salary of $52,610 in 2018, well above the national average of $43,210. However, the top wage earners in the state made closer to $76,750, leaving room for growth for those in the profession. In addition to these figures, freight brokers also make commissions, which could boost these salaries considerably.
Working in Nebraska as a Freight Broker
When starting a freight brokerage, it will be important to set your business up in a location with access to manufacturing industries in need of shipping. According to the BLS, Nebraska has one of the highest location quotients in the country for exporting. This means there are a higher percentage of export jobs per capita than the national average, making the export industry a good bet for employment for those working in the state.
You can also find freight broker training in Kansas, South Dakota, Iowa, Missouri, Colorado and Wyoming.