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A reliable freight broker should make your supply chain more efficient, not introduce new problems. Yet many companies experience hidden fees, missed delivery windows, unclear communication, and poorly vetted carriers that cause preventable disruptions.
Whether your company ships LTL, FTL, specialty, heavy haul, or cross-border freight, asking the right questions is essential before selecting a broker. Use this checklist to ensure your logistics partner strengthens operations rather than weakening them.
1. Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Properly Insured?
A compliant freight broker should be able to provide:
Why it matters: Without proper authority and insurance coverage, shippers may face liability, cargo loss risk, and legal complications. A carrier or broker who cannot provide documentation should not handle commercial freight.
- MC Authority Number
- USDOT Number
- Surety Bond (BMC-84)
- Certificate of Insurance (active and verified)
2. How Do You Vet Carriers in Your Network?
A strong broker does not rely on any available truck. They evaluate carriers carefully, considering:
Carrier selection directly affects transit performance, claims, and customer satisfaction.
- CSA safety scores
- Active insurance and coverage limits
- Equipment type and maintenance standards
- Driver qualification files
- Performance history and on-time delivery rates
3. Do You Provide Transparent Pricing Without Hidden Costs?
Unexpected accessorial fees are a leading cause of profit loss in freight. Common additional charges include:
A qualified brokerage should provide clear line-item pricing, explain all potential accessorials in advance, and help shippers reduce total landed cost.
- Detention and layover fees
- Fuel surcharge variations
- Liftgate and driver assist
- Residential or limited-access delivery
4. Can You Support LTL, FTL, and Specialty or Oversized Freight?
Even if your current needs are standard, your shipping requirements may expand as you scale. Your broker should handle multiple modes, including:
