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One of the careers that will continue to grow substantially over the next few decades is being a freight broker.
As the need for e-commerce continues to grow and citizens everywhere are looking to have items shipped to their homes and businesses regularly, there are more than just traditional needs for freight transport.
Before you can become a freight broker in Delaware, you need to understand what is expected of this position and what the licensing requirements are so that you can be successful.
Article Table of Contents
Freight Broker Duties in Delaware
If you are a freight broker in Delaware, you are responsible for the following duties regularly and with each delivery:
- Managing and providing order instructors to the truck driver
- Being a medium for shippers and carriers.
- Maintain connection with the drivers during freight transportation
- Ensuring all fragile freight is delivered appropriately per the orders
- Managing the billing from the carrier
Managing each load of freight that one of your drivers is carrying is essential as a freight broker.
You need to be able to manage any issues that arise with delivery and transportation, making sure to make accommodations when necessary.
Licensing Requirements to Become a Freight Broker in Delaware
You do need to have your high school diploma or a GED, but that is the minimum requirement for education.
There are a few more steps required to get your license in Delaware as a freight broker:
- Make sure you go through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and apply for your US DOT number as a freight broker.
- Once that application is in, you need to file either Form BMC-84 or Form BMC-85 which states you have a trust fund agreement or surety bond with a minimal amount of $75,000.
- Pay your application fee
- Receive your processed licensure in 4-6 weeks
The steps above are obligatory to be a federal freight broker, which is all Delaware requires.
There are no additional steps at the state level to become a freight broker.
However, there are some advanced programs and certifications that are highly recommended to boost your career.
Freight Broker Programs in Delaware
While a freight broker program is not required for licensing in Delaware, having this background will look more attractive to potential clients and help maintain your success.
There are some programs found online since there are not any offered locally in Delaware:
- Freight Broker Camp is completely online and available for those who are Delaware residents. This program is 6 months long, giving you an insight into the different skills you will use with interactions, financials, and working for shippers cross-country.
- Freight Movers School has an online option so that those residing in Delaware can take advantage of this program without having to drive to Georgia for the in-person program.
These are the two most common programs that are offered and taken advantage of by Delaware freight brokers who are looking to advance their careers.
While it is not required, there is a certification option available as a Certified Transportation Broker through the Transportation Intermediaries Association.
This certification is something that many clients look for before selecting a freight broker.
Salary For a Freight Broker in Delaware
If you are looking to be a freight broker in Delaware, you can expect an average salary of around $37,000.
While there are brokers making much more than this, Delaware is a smaller state and not bringing in nearly the amount of freight as other states.
Those making some top salaries are making more than $60,000 annually, with new brokers coming in just above $20,000.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Wilmington | $56,229 |
| Dover | $56,137 |
| Newark | $56,187 |
| Milford | $56,271 |
| Seaford | $55,116 |
| Middletown | $55,037 |
| Delmar | $55,116 |
| Smyrna | $56,076 |
| New Castle | $56,229 |
| Georgetown | $56,271 |
Sources
- #1 Freight Broker Training Online – Freight Broker Boot Camp
- Freight Broker Training – Freight Movers School, LLC
- TIA Certified Transportation Brokers Program Surpasses 2100 Certifications with 54 Professionals Receiving Designation – Transportation Intermediaries Association (tianet.org)
- Registration | FMCSA (dot.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a large growth expectation in Delaware?
Compared to other states, Delaware has room for growth, but not to the same extent as other states.
With the size and population of the state, there is a lot of competition already among freight brokers.
You can have a career as a freight broker, but you will have to put in the work to get a substantial salary and move to larger areas like Wilmington and Camden.
Can I work under another broker first?
If you want to make sure this career is for you, then you can first start working under another broker and split the brokerage fee.
Once you have established a clientele base, you can branch out on your own and get your own broker license.
How much communication is required in this position?
Pretty much, 90 percent of each day will consist of you having to communicate with different parties.
You will have to be able to negotiate when circumstances change and to mediate issues before they arise.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Freight Broker
Freight Broker License by State