Online Freight Broker/Agent Training in Louisiana

Whether you have goals of setting up your own freight broker business in Louisiana or you’d prefer to work under an already-established brokerage, our 90 Day Online Freight Broker Course gives you all the tools you need for success.

From valuable negotiation skills to the cornerstones of transport law, our comprehensive modules are broken down into easy-to-digest lessons and self-evaluation tests. Take the next step in your career and learn how to become a freight broker in Louisiana (LA) today!

Freight brokers in Louisiana

Course Overview

  • Course Duration: 100 hours
  • Cost: $890
  • Full Truckload Guarantee: 30-day refund if you’re unsatisfied with the course.
  • Available in: Text, audio, and video.

Our freight broker training in Louisiana covers a diverse range of key topics, including:

  • Setting up your own freight broker business: Learn everything you need to know about setting up a brokerage of your own, including things like trust fund agreements, surety bonds, and assigning process agents.
  • Transport law fundamentals: Gain an introduction to the transportation industry through topics like compliance, vehicle regulation, insurance, and more.
  • Dispatching: From dispatching loads to tracking and tracing, learn key insights into pick-ups and deliveries.
  • Operations: Learn which software to choose for your freight brokerage and how to set up a home office.

Whether you’re looking for a job change or want to refine your knowledge, our 90 Day Online Freight Broker Course will ensure you have a fulfilling and profitable career.

How to Get a Freight Broker License in Louisiana

Louisana doesn’t have any state-level requirements for freight brokers, but you’ll need to meet the following federal guidelines to obtain your license:

  • Be over 18 years old
  • Have a high-school diploma (GED or equivalent)
  • Surety bond of $75,000

While formal schooling isn’t a requirement, enrolling in our Freight Broker Training Course will give you a better understanding of the industry’s regulations, processes, and best practices, as well as a competitive edge in the market.

Required certificates to launch your freight broker career in Louisiana

If you want to work as a freight broker in Louisiana, you’ll need to obtain a license from the FMCSA. You can do this by finding the Unified Registration System (OP-1 form) on the FMCSA site and submitting an application for a motor carrier number. You can expect to pay a $300 application fee, and you should get your number in around 4-6 weeks.

Next, obtain a U.S. DOT number, which is a legal requirement for companies that operate commercial vehicles over 10,000 lbs. You can easily register online, and you should receive your U.S. DOT number on the day you apply.

Business registration

If you want to start your own freight broker business, you’ll need to register your new business by:

  • Filing Formation Paperwork with the Louisiana Secretary of State. You’ll need to provide information such as your business name, registered agent, and address.
  • Applying for an Employer Identification Number online with the IRS, which you’ll need to open up a business bank account and pay tax.

Obtaining a freight broker bond

Louisiana freight brokers need to obtain a surety bond of $75,000, which can be done by:

  • Applying for the BMC-84 bond
  • Applying for the BMC-85 bond

You’ll need to do this within 90 days of applying for your registration with the FMCSA.

Does Louisiana require a formal exam for licensing?

While the Certified Transportation Brokers (CTB) isn’t an official requirement for becoming a freight broker in Louisiana, the exam provides a great way to gain extra knowledge and stand out amongst competitors. You can take this exam through the Transport Intermediaries Association.

Career Opportunities for Freight Brokers in Louisiana

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 530 freight brokers were working in Louisiana in 2023. With around 50 projected job openings in the next several years, this is still a sought-after career in the state thanks to the following factors:

  • The average freight broker salary in Louisana is not far behind the national average, and there’s plenty of earning potential if you work your way up into the higher earning bracket.
  • New Orleans offers the most job opportunities in Louisana, thanks to its large population, while Shreveport-Bossier offers the best salaries in the state.

Choose your career path as a freight broker

Once you have become a licensed freight broker in Louisiana, you can either start your own business or look for a job with a local brokerage.

Set up your own business

If you are interested in entrepreneurship, starting your own brokerage could be a good option. You could start small, with a home office, and enjoy the flexibility and freedom that comes with being a business owner. Just keep in mind that you will need to market to connect with your new customers, and you’ll have various responsibilities on your plate.

Work for an established brokerage

Finding a job at a brokerage means that you’ll get paid a monthly salary as well as incentives. This is a great option for those who value stability and don’t want to take on the responsibilities that come with starting a business of their own.

Earning potential and salary for freight brokers in Louisiana

PercentileU.S. SalaryLouisiana Salary
10%$36,520$31,200
25%$40,410$43,630
Median (50%)$48,330$46,850
75%$60,140$50,040
90%$72,820$56,830

Employment trends for freight brokers in Louisiana

LocationNo. of Freight Brokers (2020/2022)Projected No. of Freight Brokers (2030/2032)Projected Growth (2020-2030/2022-2032)Projected Annual Job Openings (2020-2030/2022-2032)
Louisiana4804800%50
United States95,900105,20010%11,000

FAQs

1. How long does freight broker training in Louisiana take?

Our Freight Broker Courses take just 90 days to complete. Within 3 months, you could be a knowledgeable freight broker.

2. Is there a difference between a freight broker and a freight agent?

The main difference between freight brokers and freight agents is that brokers need to have a valid FMCSA license, while agents do not. Brokers also have significantly more responsibilities than agents, with tasks including things like processing claims and negotiating contracts.

3. Is a freight broker a good job?

Yes. Freight brokering can be challenging at times, but your hard work will be rewarded with good earning potential. If you have an aptitude for logistics and strong negotiation skills, you may be well-suited for the freight brokerage industry.

4. What does a freight broker do?

Freight brokers organize the shipment of various goods by acting as intermediaries between shippers and carriers. Some of the typical tasks include negotiating rates, dealing with dispatches, managing paperwork, and more.

5. How much does freight broker training cost?

Our Freight Broker Training Programs cost just $890, which includes 13 comprehensive modules.

Sources:

  1. https://freightbrokerschools.org/la/
  2. https://www.firststarlogistics.com/blog/how-to-become-a-freight-broker/
  3. https://onestop.ky.gov/start/Pages/default.aspx
  4. https://member.tianet.org/TIAMEMBER/TIAMEMBER/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=25CTBTRI1
  5. https://scmedu.org/freight-broker-schools/ky/#:~:text=Appoint%20a%20Process%20Agent%20and,4%2D6%20weeks%20processing%20time
  6. https://www.bryantsuretybonds.com/blog/how-to-become-a-freight-broker
  7. https://www.90dayfreightbroker.com/
  8. https://www.onetonline.org/link/certinfo/8966-A