What Are the Benefits of Freight Brokerage Services?

Utilizing transportation brokerage services can provide a host of advantages for your business.

Reduced Shipping Costs

An experienced freight broker like EMO Trans has an extensive network of long-term partnerships with carriers serving multiple areas. A broker can leverage these relationships to negotiate the most favorable rates for your loads and minimize some transportation fees. You’re likely to see significant savings.

Time Savings

Finding carriers that deliver to your shipping destinations and negotiating rates is time-consuming. A broker can execute these tasks efficiently. They know how to locate the carriers with the most direct shipping routes and can even recommend alternate itineraries, giving you additional options.

Claims Assistance

If you’ve ever experienced a situation involving goods damaged during shipping, you understand the frustrations of filing an insurance claim. A broker can eliminate this headache by handling all the paperwork and red tape for you. You can also receive advice about coordinating with insurance companies and managing the settlement process.

Flexibility

An experienced broker with an extensive carrier network can provide more flexibility in transportation and shipping. For instance, if you operate a seasonal business, your volume increases and decreases significantly at certain times of the year. Your brokerage firm can ensure you’re prepared for these fluctuations. It can also be an invaluable resource during those times when you need to transport more goods than planned and require additional capacity.

Peace of Mind

Getting goods to your customers is vital to your company’s success and viability. A freight broker will serve as a trusted partner and ally that allows you to sleep better and focus your attention on other areas. You won’t need to worry about the shipping aspect of your business.

What to Look for When Selecting a Freight Broker

No two freight broker companies are identical, and quality and service levels can vary substantially. You’ll need to consider multiple factors during the selection process for the best results. Look for a company that offers the following.

Proper Licensing

Choose a credentialed broker that meets all the licensing requirements of the countries in which you intend to ship goods. For example, any individual or business involved in arranging transportation for compensation in the United States must receive a broker license from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

A broker’s licensing validates their commitment to following strict guidelines and implementing sound business practices. Look for a licensed partner to safeguard your company from fraud and other illegal activities.

Appropriate Transportation Modes

Do you typically ship freight by truck, air, sea, rail or a combination of these methods? Your broker should have an extensive track record working with the modes that meet your company’s needs. Ideally, the brokerage firm should have relationships with multiple carriers in each mode to ensure you’ll have reliable transportation services whenever you need them.

Familiarity With Your Industry

Have you worked with brokers or carriers who don’t know your industry and the unique shipping challenges you face? When you choose a brokerage company with experience collaborating with businesses like yours, you’ll likely receive better service and have fewer issues with late shipments, damaged cargo or high costs. You’ll have more peace of mind, and your customers will be happier.

A Meticulous Vetting Process

Brokers should implement a thorough vetting process when evaluating carriers. Ask prospective brokers about their criteria for carriers. The ideal brokerage company will partner with carriers that offer:

• Sufficient liability insurance coverage for the value of your cargo.
• The use of modern, well-maintained vehicles and equipment.
• The ability to meet specialized handling requirements.
• Compatibility with your preferred shipping schedules.

Advanced Freight Tracking Capabilities

If you’re like most shippers, you want the ability to locate your goods at every stage of their journey. Your broker should offer access to tracking software and other advanced technologies that provide transparency and valuable supply chain insights.

Attentive Customer Service

Your broker should be responsive to your business’s needs and become a trusted long-term partner. The firms you speak with should inspire confidence that they’ll be there to help whenever there’s a problem with a delivery or any other issue requiring prompt attention.

EMO Trans Stands Apart From the Other Freight Broker Companies

EMO Trans checks all the right boxes when choosing a freight brokerage. Our extensive global reach and carrier network ensure you’ll find the right match for your business’s unique shipping requirements. Whether you usually send freight by air, land, sea or rail, you’ll have confidence that your goods will arrive on time and in excellent condition.

Delivering top-notch customer service is always our priority. We’ll go the extra mile to help your business overcome any logistical challenges that arise. We also offer customized solutions that fit your needs, not your competitors’. And with advanced technology tools like Track & Trace — available via the EMO Trans Portal microsite — you’ll have more control over your business processes.