Freight Broker/Agent Training Schools in Iowa

To become a successful freight broker in Iowa, it is essential to develop a strong sense of planning and organization. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are also compulsory, and candidates are expected to meet the general guidelines concerning education and certification.

The objective of this guide is to introduce interested individuals to the major steps they can take to achieve expertise in the above areas. We also provide a few additional helpful resources, such as a list containing the best programs for future freight brokers in Iowa.

Lastly, the guide concludes by analyzing the state’s annual average salary for professionals in this field.

How to Become a Freight Broker in Iowa

The following requirements are needed to become a successful freight broker in Iowa.

Formal Training

Formal training is essential to become a successful freight broker in Iowa. Thankfully, students don’t even have to worry about sacrificing prior schedules to fit in their training durations, as most programs offer online training.

Completing a freight brokering program is also essential due to the business-oriented curriculum. The best programs enable students to understand modern marketing and sales strategies while developing strong organizational and management skills.

We explore some of the most notable programs offering these benefits in an upcoming section.

Real-World Experience

Real-world experience following classroom education is necessary to provide fresh freight brokers with a close-up view of how the industry functions. It can also help them develop effective strategies for running a freight brokering business

Business Registration

In launching a freight brokering business, candidates are expected to officially incorporate a business by following the legal guidelines set by the state. They must also have relevant insurance and a surety bond of at least $75,000.

FMCSA Requirements

The FMCSA expects freight brokers to receive an official license after sending in a completed application form. This step usually costs around $300.

Candidates also need a unique number from the United States Department of Transportation before they can obtain a license.

Marketing & Career Growth

The journey to become a successful freight broker does not stop after starting a business. Candidates must continue to improve themselves through ongoing education and networking. Leveraging online marketing options and developing effective promotional strategies are also quite important.

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

The Association for Supply Chain Management and the Transportation Intermediaries Association are responsible for two professional certifications that freight brokers in Iowa can consider for advancing their careers. These are the Certified Transportation Broker and the Certified Supply Chain Professional credentials.

Candidates must complete an approved training program and pass the professional examination. For the former, they must also pass a professional examination, but with a foundational requirement of 2 years’ experience in the industry.

Lastly, it is worth reiterating that freight brokers in Iowa don’t need a state license, but only after registering their business and receiving approval from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Top Freight Broker Schools in Iowa

Candidates may attend any of the programs below to launch a successful freight broker career in Iowa.

Explore freight broker training schools in Iowa by city:

• Freight broker training schools in Des Moines

Salary & Career Outlook

The annual average salary of a freight broker in Iowa is typically $50,238 for those just starting, falling within the median category. The figure can rise to around $151,811 for those in the top 10% and fall to about $16,625 for those in the bottom 10%.

The factors that determine a candidate’s placement among the categories are varied. They may include experience, location, expertise, networking, and business strategy, among others.

Location is another key factor that can have a significant impact. Currently, data shows that Des Moines and Spirit Lake are where freight brokers in Iowa manage the highest annual income, with figures of around $61,134 and $60,218, respectively.

The same survey also revealed some other top locations, such as Ankeny, with an average annual salary of $58,722, and Norwalk, where freight brokers earn an average of $52,773 per year.