It is the responsibility of freight brokers to expedite the process of shipping for both shippers and carriers alike. Brokers bring the two parties together and negotiate the parameters of the contract. Everything from getting the best rates for the shipper to making sure the carrier is able to deliver on the promises to obtaining evidence of adequate insurance are part of the services the broker provides. In turn, the broker takes a portion of the difference between the rate quoted by the carrier and the rate quoted to the shipper.

Expediting the Process

Some of the larger freight broker/logistics companies establish a continuing process for expediting shipments by placing an employee onsite to handle all aspects of a large customer's shipping functions. The process can become so seamless that the shipper relies on the onsite broker agent's skills and expertise when planning manufacturing schedules and negotiating product sales.

What this means to the shipper is that he does not have to hire and maintain his own shipping department. The broker has established relationships with and access to multiple carriers, usually in the thousands. The broker can then look for the right carrier at the right price with the advanced knowledge and history he has with that carrier.

Efficiency and Cost Savings

Using a freight services expediter such as a logistics/broker firm is much more efficient for both the shipper and the carrier. The shipper saves money and time when the broker does all the negotiating and legwork. The carrier saves by knowing that the broker will be able to keep his trucks full. Because of this, the broker can often get the shipper really great rates. In addition, most brokers work with various modes of shipping.