Freight Broker/Agent Training Schools in Michigan

The major function of a freight broker in Michigan is to connect carriers and customers looking to ship their products. This is an oversimplification, as freight brokers provide additional services, including management and record keeping, to ensure the shipping process goes as smoothly as possible.

Ultimately, the field remains ever-growing, with the possibility for new candidates in the state to make a decent living. We have provided the detailed guide below to help them launch their careers smoothly and straightforwardly.

Here, interested individuals will discover key considerations ranging from educational and business requirements to training programs and insurance possibilities. Lastly, we outline some relevant figures for prospective freight brokers in Michigan to look forward to concerning their annual earnings.

How to Become a Freight Broker in Michigan

The following is a step-by-step breakdown of the considerations needed to become a successful freight broker career in Michigan.

Step 1: Educational Pathways

Generally, there are two educational pathways for aspiring freight brokers in Michigan to consider. The first is the formal educational pathway, while the second involves informal training.

Informal training is possible because freight brokers in the state are not expected to complete any form of academic training to start their careers. So, as long as candidates understand how to carry out their duties at the highest level, they may start a freight brokerage business in Michigan.

Step 2: Business Considerations

Prospective freight brokers who want to enjoy the benefits of owning their businesses may choose a business structure and register for an Employment Identification Number. They are also expected to register with the state for a state sales tax number.

Step 3: Registering with the FMCSA

To meet federal regulations, freight brokers in Michigan must complete an application with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration of the United States Department of Transportation. The next section explores the steps required to do so.

Step 4: Surety Bond & Insurance

Once freight brokers in Michigan register with the FMCSA, the next step is to get a surety bond. They may choose either the $75,000 BMC-85 trust fund agreement fund or the $75,000 BMC-84 freighter broker bond; most choose the bond option.

They may also consider cargo liability insurance, bodily injury, and property damage insurance.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Licensure & Certification Requirements

As mentioned above, freight brokers in Michigan are expected to register with the FMCSA to receive their federal license. To do so, they must provide business details, including their Employment Identification Number and company officers.

They can only submit their applications after paying a $300 fee. Subsequently, they will receive a USDOT number, a PIN, and an MC number, signifying successful registration.

Candidates are also expected to designate a “process agent” to handle legal issues on the broker’s behalf.

For certification, freight brokers in Michigan often consider the Transportation Intermediaries Association’s Certified Transportation Brokers credential.

Top Freight Brokerage Schools in Michigan

Residents may consider any of the programs below for their comprehensive freight brokering training in Michigan.

Explore freight broker training schools in Michigan by city:

• Freight broker training schools in Detroit

Salary & Career Outlook

While freight brokers in Michigan enjoy an annual average salary of around $67,230, this is none other than the median figure for candidates who fall in the midpoint in terms of yearly returns. The more successful freight brokers in the state may earn as high as $168,327, catapulting them into the top 10% category.

Professionals who are still making a name for themselves and have yet to have a robust client list can still manage an annual average salary of $26,852, which is good enough to be among the bottom 10%. As it is possible to increase a freight brokerage income in Michigan with time and experience, it is also possible to do so by considering professional credentials, joining trade organizations, and working in a better location.

According to a survey of freight brokers in the state, Grand Rapids is where these professionals earn the most in Michigan. Professionals here make around $78,156 on average at the end of each year.

Detroit and Byron Center are also worth mentioning, with annual average salaries of $70,996 and $69,737, respectively.