Freight brokers in South Carolina are responsible for a handful of tasks and optimizations that ensure the smooth delivery of goods from one place to another. These professionals are absolutely valuable in the global supply chain and are well-rewarded for their efforts.
Individuals who would like to enter the discipline in South Carolina must understand the considerations highlighted on this page. This will not only allow them to meet key requirements set by government authorities and potential employers but also help them build a strong brand and an excellent reputation.
The guide also explores the top programs to enroll in and the annual average salary projections, among other important details.
How to Become a Freight Broker in South Carolina
The following is a step-by-step analysis of how to enter into the freight brokering discipline as a resident of South Carolina.
Finishing a Program
The majority of successful freight brokers in South Carolina have attended the training program. Of course, since no laws mandate attending an academic program, it is also possible to receive training as a future freight broker in the state by learning “on the job” under an experienced broker.
For a very convenient learning experience, aspiring freight brokers in South Carolina often choose to attend an online or hybrid training program.
Business Considerations
A solid business plan will help candidates transform from regular freight brokers into successful businesses. By working at an existing brokerage business and learning on the job, candidates can see firsthand what it takes to start and thrive in their own businesses.
FMCSA Registration
To operate a freight brokerage business in South Carolina and across the country, one must have a license from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Professionals are expected to have already obtained a unique identification number from the State Department of Transportation.
Insurance & Surety Bonds
Freight brokers must convince their customers that the losses of goods in transit will be covered. This is why professionals are expected to have a BMC84 bond that covers such losses.
Of course, freight brokers will also be able to acquire relevant insurance to cover costs.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
As long as they are properly trained and have acquired a Department of Transportation number to pursue licensing from the FMCSA, professionals in South Carolina can start working and even incorporate their own freight brokerage business. Another step that can be extremely beneficial is certification.
Although professionals in the field are not legally expected to be certified, those who are certified enjoy more credibility than those who are not. Other benefits of becoming certified include continuing education, networking, and better pay.
The most prominent organizations to consult for nationally recognized credentials as freight brokers in South Carolina include:
- The Association for Supply Chain Management and the
- Transportation Intermediaries Association.
Top Freight Broker Schools in South Carolina
Candidates who are residents of South Carolina may enter the freight brokerage business by attending any of the programs below.
University of South Carolina Sumter
Online, SC Online Only
University of South Carolina Sumter provides a flexible, self-paced online program that uses real-life examples and various learning materials to help students develop essential freight brokerage skills.
Tuition
$1,895 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Tri-County Technical College
Pendleton, SC Campus Only
Tri-County Technical College boasts a self-paced online Freight Broker/Agent Training program that covers transportation regulations, contracts, insurance, marketing strategies, and carrier relations.
Tuition
$185 - $492 per CreditContact
(864) 646-8282
busof@tctc.edu
Midlands Technical College
Online, SC Online Only
Midlands Technical College, through the Harbison College of Continuing Education, offers an online freight broker training program covering state-specific requirements and general industry knowledge.
Tuition
$1,995 per ProgramContact
(803) 732-5204
cce@midlandstech.edu
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Salary & Career Outlook
The annual average salary of freight brokers in South Carolina can vary depending on a few factors. However, the majority of professionals in this discipline will fall among the average earners, making an annual salary of around $92,795 in the state.
It is also possible to be among the bottom 10%of earners at the beginning of a career, making an average return of around $40,325 yearly. For those who are among the highest-paid, the annual average salary to look forward to is usually around $213,535.
Location and experience are two important factors influencing the salary of a freight broker in South Carolina. Regarding the former, freight brokers in Greenville earn an annual average salary of $144,52,4, and those in Charleston earn an annual average salary of $94,035, making them the first and second highest-paid in the state, respectively.
Freight brokers in Piedmont end the year with an average salary of $84,477.