Get Freight Broker Training in Wyoming
Freight brokers play an important role in the transportation industry and are essential participants in the economy of Wyoming. Without freight brokers, manufacturers and shippers of goods would struggle to find local transportation carriers to bring their products to market. Freight brokers establish relationships with these carriers and help their clients negotiate the best rates. They act as an intermediary between the shipper and carrier to ensure deliveries are timely, on schedule and meet safety and legal requirements.
Freight brokers have a wide impact on the economic health of Wyoming. In 2018, Wyoming exported more than $1 billion worth of goods to Canada and the surrounding states. As a major chemical manufacturer, Wyoming relies on railway and highway transportation carriers for most of the state’s exports, and this industry makes up the bulk of the state’s GDP. Freight brokers in Wyoming should be well versed in the requirements for shipping hazardous materials, in addition to having solid business and negotiation skills.
Licensing Requirements for Freight Brokers
Like many states, Wyoming does not set local regulations for freight brokers and instead relies on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to oversee the licensing process. To begin working as a freight broker, you must be at least 18 years old and have your high school diploma or GED. You’ll also have to complete the registration process with the FMCSA before you start working.
The licensing process has several steps and may vary depending on if you’re employed with a transportation brokerage or plan to start your own. You’ll have to list the name of the business and outline its corporate structure, and then pay a $300 fee. You’ll also need to apply for a USDOT number and Motor Carrier (MC) number, and acquire liability and carrier insurance along with a surety bond of $75,000. It typically takes four to six weeks to complete the registration process and get your license to work as a freight broker.
Training for Freight Brokers in Wyoming
While some people may master the skills needed through on-the-job training, it may be easier to secure employment or start your own freight brokerage if you get training through a community college or trade school first. This is especially so in Wyoming, where the majority of exports are from the chemical manufacturing industry and have strict permitting requirements.
Any training program you undertake should have a broad curriculum including business management, bookkeeping and marketing, but should also cover the topics specific to freight brokering. These topics include the laws and regulations of shipping, especially chemicals or hazardous materials, permits and insurance coverage, and details on invoicing clients and writing up business contracts.
One option to consider is this nationally-recognized program created by Ed2go in partnership with Brooke Transportation Training Solutions. The online curriculum is given through your local community college, and you’ll work under the supervision of their professors as you learn the skills needed to be a freight broker. You’ll benefit from participating in a top program without having to relocate, and may complete the classes on your own schedule. The program typically takes six months to go through, and once you have your certificate of completion you’ll be ready to register with the FMCSA and begin working as a freight broker.
There are several schools in Wyoming that offer this program, including:
- Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne
- Eastern Wyoming College in Torrington
- Casper College in Casper
Just insert your zip code to find freight broker/agent training near you.
Further Certification for Freight Brokers
Once you’ve gained experience as a freight broker, you may increase your credibility and income by pursuing advanced certification through the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA). They offer a course to become a Certified Transportation Broker (CTB), which is the highest certification in the industry.
To become a CTB, you’ll have to pay a fee to take their online course and pass the examination. The certification does not require renewal, and once you’ve obtained it you’ll be certified for the rest of your career.
Salary Expectations for Trade Brokers in Wyoming
How much do freight brokers in Wyoming make annually? It’s a little challenging to predict because it is a fairly small industry with a wide range of possible salaries. In 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported approximately 30 people employed as cargo and freight brokers in Wyoming. They made an average of $44,340 a year, which was slightly below the national average of $46,030.
These modest numbers are not unexpected, since Wyoming is one of the least populous states and has a population of slightly over half a million people. In 2018, the median household income in Wyoming was only $61,584. The typical freight broker may make less than the state median income but still has the potential to make a lot more, especially with the addition of commissions. Since the industry is so small in Wyoming, you’ll likely see your income increase as you build your business and establish a good reputation with shippers and local carriers.
Working as a Freight Broker
Freight brokers in Wyoming are a small but essential group that facilitates the state’s vital mining and chemical export industry. You’ll find employment options throughout the state with manufacturing firms and transportation companies. While Wyoming may not have as many opportunities as the more populous states, you’ll also be able to work closely with local businesses and establish strong relationships with your clients and carriers. If you’re motivated and enjoy working with people, freight brokering may be a good option for starting a home business in Wyoming.
You can also find freight broker training in Colorado, Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, Utah and Idaho.