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Right now, there is a demand for qualified freight brokers in the state of Virginia.
A freight broker is responsible for ensuring cargo gets safely and within a budget from one place to another.
There are job openings for those who possess the skills and training to coordinate these transportation processes on a daily basis successfully.
Once you get the program training you need and follow the steps necessary to get your license, you can have a lucrative career that offers flexibility and freedom.
Article Table of Contents
Freight Broker Duties in Virginia
If you want to become a freight broker in the state of Virginia, you will need to complete certain tasks and be responsible for the coordination of the shipment of cargo.
A freight broker is responsible for representing their client.
The client provides a spread or an allotment of money used to get cargo from the shipping company to trucks that transport the cargo to a designed place.
The freight broker gets to keep any money left over from organizing the transportation of the cargo.
To be a successful freight broker, you must possess the ability to multi-task and communicate effectively.
Licensing Requirements to Become a Freight Broker in Virginia
If you want to become a freight broker in the state of Virginia, you will need to have at least a high school diploma or a GED.
If you fulfill that requirement, you will need to register as a business.
You can choose from an LLC, S corporation, or a C corporation.
Once you have successfully become a business or corporation, you will need to fill out and submit a motor carrier and broker authority form, also known as an OP-1.
The final step is very important.
You must always have a surety bond for at least $75,000 while working as a freight broker in the state of Virginia.
You will also need to have licensing through the Department of Transportation and Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
You do not need a degree or special programs to get a freight broker license.
However, you would be at an extreme disadvantage without the proper instruction you need to be successful in this competitive field.
Freight Broker Programs in the State of Virginia
There are a few options for those individuals who want to become freight brokers in the state of Virginia.
Here are the current options for both in-person classes and online classes:
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Virginia Wesleyan University | 5817 Wesleyan Dr. Virginia Beach, VA 23455 |
| Tidewater Community College | Norfolk, VA 23510 |
| University of Richmond | Richmond, VA 231 |
The last two entries offer online options that provide comprehensive instruction for students.
The average cost of these courses ranges from $1500 per course to over $3k.
To find out more about financial aid and the cost of signing up for these freight broker training courses, reach out to the college for details.
Salary
The average salary for an individual who has all the licensing and skills needed to become a successful freight broker in the state of Virginia is anywhere from $33k to $35k annually.
However, the most skilled in this business can earn up to $55kk with the right connections and skills.
People who choose this career path can carve out a steady path for their future and benefit from finding work in most cities across the country.
It is a flexible and exciting career for the right person.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Virginia Beach | $50,427 |
| Norfolk | $49,667 |
| Chesapeake | $49,604 |
| Richmond | $52,632 |
| Newport News | $49,414 |
| Hampton | $49,414 |
| Alexandria | $58,719 |
| Portsmouth | $49,667 |
| Roanoke | $48,766 |
| Lynchburg | $48,585 |
Regional Salary in Virginia
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond, VA | 230 | $55,760 | $26.81 | $73,720 | $37,490 |
| Roanoke, VA | 40 | $46,490 | $22.35 | $59,590 | $34,460 |
| Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC | 490 | $57,480 | $27.64 | $90,150 | $36,160 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Summary
If you want to become a freight broker in the state of Virginia, you will want to get the training and instruction from an accredited state freight broker training program.
They can help guide your path and give you the knowledge and skills you need to start on the right foot.
Do not forget to determine if you want an online or in-person course and make sure you follow all of the steps to get your licenses with all required entities.
With some time and effort, you will be on your way to having a fulfilling and flexible job that is in high demand.
Sources
https://www.salary.com/research/salary/recruiting/freight-broker-agent-salary
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a freight broker license?
Everyone’s path to getting licensed is unique.
However, if you take the appropriate courses and complete them satisfactorily, you can begin the process of submitting forms and information for your license.
This entire process can take a year to a year and a half.
Do you need to keep a surety bond the entire time you work as a freight broker in the state of Virginia?
Yes, you must maintain your surety bond at all times no matter what state you work as a freight broker.
This is a requirement and law across the country.
Is there any reason to choose an LLC over an S corporation or a C corporation?
An LLC will provide limited liability to protect you in the event of an issue.
However, that might not be the best choice for each person.
Find out what the benefits of each selection provide for you and use your best judgment when filing for articles of incorporation.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Freight Broker
Freight Broker License by State