What do you want in a broker?

TX - thanks for the tip on the insurance. I'll add that to my list of things to look into. I'll probably start getting some rate estimates in a couple of months, as I won't need that stuff until I start my own. I'm hoping to be able to spend about 6 months as an agent, and then be able to launch solo. I also have to look into some software. I have found one that I am interested in, and the company is sending me more info on that. I will look into some other options for software as well.

I also found a site that has information on a lot of shippers and carriers (in the 100,000's on shippers) that I can access for various subscription rates. I'll probably start with a monthly subscription with them. I will need that kind of info as an agent as well. They have a sample list of shippers that I was able to look at that only included the company name, and there were a lot of very recognizable names on the list.

The one thing I am finding it difficult to find information on is actual shipping rates. That seems to be a state secret. I know there are a lot of factors involved in that, such as commodity, location of origin, etc, so on.

Well, time to log off for a bit, and go walk my dog. Can't wait until I can move into a place where I can just let her out to run. I'll just need an 8' fence for that! She can clear a 6' fence.

 

Good tip here too. I like to cover my butt as much as possible. I also plan on checking safety ratings, etc, as well as checking the shippers out carefully too. I plan on paying my bills, so I want to make sure that the companies I am dealing with pay theirs.

 

I have a question. As an agent, do I have to have a surety bond? My dad (retired trucker with 30+ years and also a former broker) seems to think I do.

 

Thanks TX! I thought that was the way it worked, just wanted to make sure. Just ordered the 'training manual' I wanted today, so I should have that next week some time, and hopefully, be ready to get rolling a week or so after that. I could wing it, but I'd rather have some guidance for getting started. I understand the basics of it, and I'm sure I could figure it out, but I'd rather not have to totally wing it!