Freight brokerage
Match shippers that need loads moved with trucking carriers, and earn the margin in between.
Last updated
01 / Why it can workThe upside
No trucks to own, and a few loyal shippers can generate steady load volume.
02 / Watch forThe hard part
Credit risk, thin margins in soft markets and carrier fraud need careful controls.
03 / CostsWhat the first budget covers
Broker authority and bond, load board access, insurance and a transport management system. Expect roughly $3,000–$15,000 for a lean first version, before your own living costs.
04 / First customerYour first paying step
Secure authority and bonding, then win a few lanes from one shipper while vetting carriers carefully.
05 / GrowthHow it grows
Specialize in lanes or freight types and add agents to grow load volume.
Business snapshot
Freight brokerage scores
Startup difficulty5/10
Operating difficulty7/10
Economic potential7/10
Scalability7/10
Resale potential6/10
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