Online Freight Broker Training In Illinois
The 90 Day Freight Broker Course is designed for both beginners and experienced freight brokers. Over 100 hours of learning, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge you need to break into the field or enhance your existing skills.
Our course covers how to become a freight broker in Illinois, advanced operational strategies, fundamental topics like industry law, and much, much more.
Course Overview
Our freight broker training course consists of 13 comprehensive modules spread out over 100 hours of learning. It costs $890, and we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.
The course covers the full scope of topics you need to become a successful freight broker in Illinois, including:
- Dispatching: Learn all you need to know about delivery, pick-up, tracing, tracking, and dispatching loads.
- Accounting: Discover the intricacies of managing cash flow, assessing tax liabilities, and dealing with invoices.
- Starting a brokerage: If you’re interested in setting up your own freight broker business, we’ll show you the ropes. This includes training on authority applications, assigning process agents, surety bonds, and trust funds.
- Introduction to transportation law: Working in the transportation industry requires a deep knowledge of the relevant laws. So, we’ll teach you how to vet carriers, find shipper niches, and obtain freight broker insurance.
The course is structured to suit all types of learning, and the materials are available in video, text, and audio formats.
Sign up for the waiting list now and get ready to embark on your freight broker career!
How To Get A Freight Broker License In Illinois
There are no state-level freight broker licensing requirements in IL. So, how do you become a freight broker, then? Well, as with every other state, you need to fulfil the federal requirements, which are:
- You need to be at least 18 years old
- You must have a high school diploma or equivalent
- You need to obtain your FMCSA license
- You have to secure a $75,000 surety bond
The good news is that you don’t need to undergo any formal education to become a broker.
However, it’s best to get some training so that you can set yourself up for success in your new career. Training is also vital for helping you understand industry regulations, processes, and best practices.
Required certifications to launch your freight broker career in Illinois
The only required certification for Illinois freight brokers is the FMCSA license. It’s best to apply for this as early as possible, as the entire process typically takes around 4 to 6 weeks.
Here are the steps you need to follow to obtain your license:
- Register your business in Illinois
- Obtain a USDOT number
- File BOC-3 process agent designation
- Submit your OP-1 form, which comes with a $300 free
While this is the only required license, you can make yourself more appealing to employers by taking the Certified Transportation Brokers (CTB) exam through the Transportation Intermediaries Association. This certificate is sure to enhance your credibility within the industry and improve your chances of securing employment.
Career Opportunities For Freight Brokers In Illinois
The U.S. freight brokerage market is projected to reach $24.69 billion by 2030, representing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.86% from 2025 to 2030.
With significant industry growth, there should be an upward trajectory of annual job openings for freight brokers in IL and in the U.S. generally.
Becoming a freight broker in Illinois also presents several unique opportunities, such as:
- 25% of all U.S. freight rail traffic passes through Chicago, meaning freight brokers are in high demand.
- Illinois is one of the top manufacturing states in the country, creating a thriving transportation and shipping industry.
- IL is home to five international airports, giving it outstanding air freight capabilities.
Choose Your Career Path As A Freight Broker
Once you’ve obtained your FMCSA license, you’re ready to start your career as a freight broker. However, you now have a decision to make—do you start your own freight brokerage business or get a job at an existing firm?
Starting your own brokerage
If you have entrepreneurial goals, starting a broker business is the best option. It gives you full control over your career and provides unlimited earning potential as your business grows. Still, it’s not without its downsides.
For instance, you’ll have sole responsibility for managing operations and will have to take on the financial risk associated with starting a business.
Working for an established firm
Not interested in entrepreneurship? Then, your best bet is to secure a role at an established firm in Illinois. This means you’ll gain financial stability and have access to the expertise of your colleagues, helping you develop your own skills.
Yet, you’ll have to be prepared to have fairly limited freedom if you choose this path.
Earning potential and salary for freight brokers in Illinois
The mean annual wage for freight brokers in IL is $51,590, which is slightly lower than the national mean wage of $52,460.
However, brokers in the 90th percentile of earners in Illinois can earn up to $66,050. So, while your starting salary may be lower than the national average, you could work your way up to a much higher wage. Here’s how the salaries in Illinois compare to the U.S.:
| Percentile | Illinois Salary | U.S. Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $38,380 | $36,520 |
| 25% | $45,110 | $40,410 |
| 50% (Median) | $46,330 | $48,330 |
| 75% | $59,760 | $60,140 |
| 90% | $66,050 | $72,820 |
Employment trends for freight brokers in Illinois
The current employment trends for freight brokers in Illinois are highly positive. In 2020, there were 7,030 brokers in the state, which is projected to increase to 8,760 by 2030, with a growth rate of 25%—15% higher than the national rate of 10%.
| Location | Jobs (2020) | Projected Jobs (2030) | Projected Growth (2020-2030) | Projected Annual Job Openings (2020-2030) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | 7,030 | 8,760 | 25% | 940 |
| Illinois | 95,900 | 105,200 | 10% | 11,000 |
FAQs
1. How long does it take to become a freight broker?
This varies but it typically takes around 3 to 6 months to become a freight broker. This is because the FMCSA licensing process takes around 4 to 6 weeks. Plus, there are other requirements like:
- Insurance and operational setup: 1-2 weeks
- Registering your business: 2-3 weeks
- Surety bond acquisition: 1-2 weeks
2. What is the difference between a freight broker and a freight agent?
The key difference between freight brokers and agents is that agents operate under a broker’s authority, while brokers have their own license and authority.
3. What do freight brokers do?
The primary purpose of a freight broker is to serve as the intermediary between a shipper and a carrier. This involves numerous responsibilities, such as logistics management, handling documentation, and conducting negotiations.
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