In the past, truck freight brokers were mainly responsible for bidding on shipping jobs. They helped to arrange for shippers to let their trucks load up the different skids of products. Today, a trucking freight broker plays a role that is as much about being diplomatic as being able to move the goods on time. This individual or company acts principally as a liaison between two different members of the marketplace – the shipper and the transportation company.
The Role of the Broker: Necessary Characteristics
There is no doubt that the role of the broker is to create the perfect match between a shipper and a freight company. The legitimate ones – and unfortunately there are some who exist only to defraud trucking and shipping companies, need to possess a number of characteristics to be successful in what they do. Freight brokers must:
* Know all the rules: It is very important to know the regulations pertaining to the shipment of freight in state, intrastate, nationally and internationally. They have to know rules governing the products to be shipped, allowable containers (some countries do not allow shipment of goods in wooden crates or cartons) and such things as tariffs
* Be flexible: These providers have to be able to access what they need at any time. It should not matter if you request a freight delivery be made during peak or slow season. If things change, truck freight brokers must be able to react and respond so that the deadline is met
* Be fiscally aware: Not only should a broker be careful of his or her company’s purse, they also must take into consideration the budgets of the shipper and the transporter. The goal is to make everyone monetarily and not momentarily happy
* Communicate: Communication is the key to obtaining and maintaining customers. While emails and other electronic forms are popular, sometimes it is best to phone the contact and speak to them personally. It can cement a business deal faster than other means. Communication must be effective and, in today’s world, be culturally aware and sensitive
* Forward Looking: while basic shipping e.g. skids, remains common, companies that want to move forward need to consider boutique shipping. Find a niche and move in
In all aspects, it is also important to be aware of the market and its fluctuations. Be knowledgeable of your company and its competitors. Know your business inside out and be sure, when you speak or email, the right words come out.
Truck Freight Brokers
Being a truck freight broker is more complicated than it has been in the past. It is no longer simply arranging a deal between two parties. To be effective, it is important for the provider to be aware of the different characteristics of the business and the parties involved. For truck freight brokers to be successful in today’s marketplace, they have to be a combination of technological whiz, business savant and diplomat.
