Tips for Freight Agents Looking to Secure a Contract Carrier
The value of local freight trucking in the United States is around $67.3 billion. This rate is far from where it was in 2019 to early 2020, when Covid-19 travel restrictions hurt the industry. In 2021, the demand to move goods by road realized a significant increase. The competition for shipping goods is growing more challenging every day and sourcing a quality Contract Carrier can be a struggle. Here are a few tips for Freight Agents that will assist you in finding quality Contract Carriers.
Assess The Competition
Competition is standard and a driving factor of capitalism. Remember, any product transported by freight has competitors. When considering a Contract Carrier, research their competition.
Relationship Is Key
Being a dependable and responsible Freight Agent is one of the best ways to recruit Carriers. This means maintaining business ethics. Carriers will most likely do their best work and even refer others to you if you are responsible. Pay them on time, communicate as a professional, and fulfill your commitments.
Also, know the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Hours of Service Regulations. These regulations include the service hours limitations for property and passenger-carrying Drivers alike. Be careful not to violate service hours. This can compromise the cargo as well as the Driver’s safety. Maltreating your Carriers will damage your reputation. As a responsible Freight Agent, make sure to treat Carriers well. Maintaining a good relationship will benefit you in the long run.
Cold Calling Works
Cold calling has been around as long as the telephone. Freight Agents can greatly benefit from making unsolicited calls to potential new Carriers, but cold calling can be challenging to execute correctly. Before calling, gain relevant information about the prospect, master your sales pitch and remember to make a human connection.
Social Media Advertisement
Make use of social media. Almost everyone has access to this platform. Social media can boost your posts for broader reach. To secure interested Carriers, make your offer appealing. Highlight location and discuss the benefit to them.
Partner with An Experienced, Reputable Broker Like Kopf!
There are companies with programs that cater to Freight Agents and Carriers alike. Partnering with the right Broker helps ensure your success!
As a Freight Agent, look for a Broker that provides the following services:
- Truckload
- Temperature-Controlled
- Open-Deck
- Less-Than-Truckload (LTL)
- Bulk Transport
- Power Only
- Drop-Trailer Service
- Drop & Hook Service
- Trailer Interchange
- Owner Operators
Source a Quality Contract Carrier
Recruiting a Contract Carrier can be challenging and rewarding at the same time. Building relationships is key when recruiting Contract Carriers. Contact us today! We offer outstanding programs for Freight Agents, Shippers and Contract Carriers alike!