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For those looking to make a career change, freight brokering is an exciting option that offers decent pay, regular hours, the opportunity to travel, and being your own boss.
Freight brokers are responsible for negotiating contracts with all parties involved in the transportation of goods.
This industry has a shortage of qualified agents, and there is no better time to join.
Here is an informative guide on how to become a freight broker in North Carolina.
Article Table of Contents
Freight Broker Duties in North Carolina
A freight broker is responsible for negotiating contracts with carriers and shippers.
They are also responsible for arranging or brokering the transportation of goods.
A freight broker may be involved in the actual transport of goods or simply act as an agent for other companies that transport their goods.
If you are new to the industry, it might be a good idea to work for a freight broker for a few months before going freelance.
Freight brokers who have been in business for several years and who have a good reputation (something that can be easily verified) are usually more trustworthy and reliable than newer brokers.
Licensing Requirements to Become a Freight Broker in North Carolina
To become a freight broker in North Carolina, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
A broker Authority license or Motor Carrier Operating Authority license is a government-issued license you should have.
You must also obtain a U.S. Department of Transportation number.
All those with a Cargo or Property Broker Authority license may also need to register as a Freight Forwarder.
In order to become a freight broker in North Carolina, you need to pass the state’s examination which consists of 100 multiple-choice questions.
You must score at least 70 percent on the test to pass.
It is advisable that you complete a training program or apprenticeship before starting your own freight broker business.
There are no prerequisites for enrolling in a post-secondary education program, obtaining certification, or undertaking an internship.
Freight Broker Programs
If you decide to complete formal education to learn more about this field, you can look into various programs and schools, such as Vance-Granville Community College in Hendersonville, Central Carolina Community College in Sanford, and UNC Charlotte Continuing Education.
These programs last for a year or less and will provide you with the knowledge necessary to work as a freight broker.
The average cost of education is around $1500.
If you are looking for a low-cost program that will allow you to become a freight broker, then you should consider an online program.
Online freight broker training programs vary in price but are generally between $1,000 and $3,000.
These programs are a great way to learn more about how freight brokers work and what you need to do in order to be successful.
An online course with Freight Broker Boot Camp is as low as $185.
It is possible to learn more about the freight industry through on-the-job training.
Some brokers are more willing than others to take an intern or apprentice under their wing and teach them the business.
Salary
The typical Freight Broker Agent salary in North Carolina is $31866 as of November 2021.
The salary range typically falls between $29,947 and $33,817.
Freight brokers in North Carolina, who have been in business for less than a year, earn an average of $16.23 per hour, and those who have been in business for between one and two years earn an average of $17.89 per hour.
Those brokers who have more than 10 years of experience earn an average of $22.09 per hour.
Freight brokers with their own businesses earn significantly more than those who work as employees.
On average, freight brokers who own their companies earn $32.70 per hour, and those who work as independent contractors earn $19.33 per hour.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Charlotte | $51,671 |
| Raleigh | $51,044 |
| Greensboro | $50,410 |
| Durham | $50,749 |
| Winston-Salem | $50,532 |
| Fayetteville | $48,401 |
| Cary | $51,044 |
| High Point | $50,712 |
| Wilmington | $48,111 |
| Asheville | $48,487 |
Regional Salary in North Carolina
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asheville, NC | 80 | $47,250 | $22.72 | $59,140 | $34,820 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC | 1,830 | $48,450 | $23.29 | $67,550 | $30,310 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC | 90 | $53,960 | $25.94 | $78,820 | $35,640 |
| Fayetteville, NC | 110 | $38,170 | $18.35 | $48,320 | $30,890 |
| Greensboro-High Point, NC | 250 | $45,610 | $21.93 | $56,710 | $34,140 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC | 160 | $42,220 | $20.3 | $56,460 | $20,380 |
| Raleigh, NC | 360 | $50,490 | $24.27 | $66,860 | $35,630 |
| Wilmington, NC | 190 | $40,430 | $19.44 | $54,660 | $30,420 |
| Winston-Salem, NC | 210 | $44,960 | $21.61 | $61,220 | $33,660 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Sources
- https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-freight-broker
- https://www.salary.com/research/salary/recruiting/freight-broker-agent-salary
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to become a freight broker?
Freight brokers may find that they have to pay up to $825 in fees just to apply for their Cargo or Property Broker Authorities.
These costs are not covered by the state unless you are active-duty military.
If your application is denied, you may also be charged a fee of around $50.
How is the state of North Carolina involved in the licensing process?
The state will require you to fill out certain forms and provide different details about your work experience.
How much are the fees for holding my license?
The annual fee to hold your Cargo Broker’s or Property Broker’s Authority is $325.
You can pay this at any time during the year, but you must notify the state that you have paid it by providing them with a form within 45 days of payment.
If you do not, you will be charged $25 in late fees.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Freight Broker
Freight Broker License by State