A freight broker facilitates the movement of cargo between shippers, carrier companies, and consignees. A shipper sends information to the freight broker, who prepares documentation like U.S. Customs forms and bills of lading and works with the carrier to load the cargo. Once the cargo arrives at its destination, the broker notifies the consignee and arranges Customs clearance and transport to the final destination. Freight brokers are responsible for generating client leads and attracting new shipping customers. They communicate with shippers, carriers, Customs, and dispatchers to ensure everyone knows where the cargo is at any given moment. Freight brokers work with railroads, steamship lines, and trucking companies to move goods across the country or across the world.

In general, a high-school diploma or equivalent is the minimum required education level you need to find a job as a freight broker, but education and skills training are beneficial for helping you land this transportation industry position. Freight brokerage is a fast-paced job that requires the ability to multi-task and work on tight deadlines. Whether a freight broker works for a carrier company, like a steamship line or trucking company, or in a manufacturer’s shipping department, computer literacy is an essential skill for this position. Freight brokers need great organizational and communication skills, and negotiation skills are handy for getting the best shipping rates for a client. Conflicts with shipping schedules and carrier availability, as well as unpredictable circumstances like bad weather, a train derailment, or a union strike necessitate excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work under high pressure at times.

Many freight brokers find their job satisfying and fulfilling. If you're interested in a fast-paced job that utilizes a variety of skills, a freight broker might be the right position for you. Freight brokers work with people as much as they do computers. The position involves a variety of duties, including maintaining schedules, creating documentation, managing customer accounts, and providing personalized attention to clients and contractors. Freight brokers work with many different kinds of cargo, including hazardous materials, and they often work with people overseas. If you thrive in a sometimes-hectic environment and enjoy seeing the results of your work in real time, you may have exactly what it takes to be a freight broker — and love your job.