Freight broker training isn't technically required, but it can help you get your career off to a great start.
There are plenty of free training courses available online so you can dip your toe into the freight broker world without spending any money.
Paid training programs are always an option if you decide you need them, but these free courses will at least get you started.
Top Free Online Freight Broker Training Programs and Courses
Read on for details on some of the best online freight broker training that you can access free of charge.
1. Brandon Scott
Brandon Scott is a freight broker who works from home and shares his expertise in the industry through his YouTube channel.
On this channel, Scott answers basic questions about how to get started in the industry and also shares his personal story and experiences.
If you're interested in a behind-the-scenes look on what it's really like to be a freight broker, Scott's channel will benefit you.
Scott also provides information on challenges you'll meet and how to overcome them so you can be a successful freight broker.
2. Digital Dispatch
Digital Dispatch has many free articles on its website that you can read if you want to learn more about the freight broker industry.
The company also shares tips and tricks that will help you get the most out of free freight broker training and avoid scams.
There's also a free podcast with tons of information on being a freight broker and getting started in this exciting industry.
While all of Digital Dispatch's information is free, they also provide discounts and other deals on recommended paid training courses.
3. Evilsizor & Associates
Evilsizor & Associates is a company that helps freight brokers with federal licensing and bonding.
The company has over 100 videos on its YouTube channel with information about the regulatory aspects of being a freight broker.
Videos include sneak peeks of courses that the company offers for a fee, as well as free short videos that answer more specific questions.
The company is based in Colorado if you're interested in using them for help with your federal licensing.
4. Freight 360
Freight 360 is a highly recommended YouTube channel with nearly 300 videos available for free.
The channel covers all aspects of the freight industry with a mission of making transportation knowledge more accessible.
Videos cover everything from recommended freight broker tech and tools to supply chain management and negotiating freight rates.
Each of the videos only covers one topic so you can easily fill in gaps in your knowledge or stay up to date on new industry developments.
5. Freight Broker Boot Camp
Freight Broker Boot Camp is another YouTube channel that provides basic training for both freight brokers and freight agents.
With nearly 500 videos, the channel is a one-stop training resource that aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the industry.
The channel is run by Dennis Brown, who grew into one of the top 100 freight brokers in just 10 years after starting with no experience.
Brown aims to share his knowledge and experience to help you become a successful and highly profitable freight broker.
6. JW Surety Bonds
JW Surety Bonds is a bond company that issues security bonds to freight brokers all over the country.
The company offers a free freight broker training course in the form of a 45-page long PDF document.
One of the benefits of this course is that you can download the PDF and refer to it whenever you need as you build your brokerage business.
The training covers everything from getting your business off the ground and obtaining licensing to marketing and lead generation.
7. Lance Surety Bonds
Lance Surety Bonds also has a lot of freight broker training resources on its website, primarily in the form of articles.
The website also includes handy links to the required forms you'll need for licensing along with instructions on how to fill them out.
The company also includes a good breakdown of costs to help you understand what you'll need to invest in your business.
While most of the materials on the website are free, the company also provides links to recommended training schools.
8. Load Training
Load Training claims to be one of the most recognized freight broker training schools in the U.S.
The school has been operating since 1987 and really knows its way around the industry.
While most of Load Training's courses and training programs are paid, they do offer some introductory training for free.
When you sign up with the site, you'll get a free video lesson as well as six free textbooks to help you get started.
FAQs About Online Freight Broker Training Programs
Keep reading for answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about becoming a freight broker.
What's the Best Degree for a Freight Broker?
You only need a high school diploma or the equivalent to become a freight broker—no college degree necessary.
Even better, since freight brokers are typically independent contractors, you don't have to worry about an employer's educational requirements.
How Do I Become a Freight Broker?
Most freight brokers do complete some kind of training before they start. Although not required, it can put you on the path to success.
To become a freight broker, all you need to do is get licensed by the federal government and take out a surety bond.
What's the Difference Between a Freight Broker and a Freight Agent?
The main difference between a freight broker and a freight agent is that a broker is licensed and bonded while an agent is not.
This means that a freight broker assumes legal responsibility for the cargo they're shipping while an agent doesn't.
Find the Right School for Freight Broker Training Today
If you're interested in becoming a freight broker, these free training programs can help you jumpstart your new career.