Glossary

Freight Broker

Quick answer

An FMCSA-licensed intermediary that arranges freight between shippers and motor carriers and holds a $75,000 BMC-84 surety bond.

Brokers earn the spread between what the shipper pays and what they pay the carrier. They are legally distinct from dispatchers, who work for the carrier.

Learn more: The Complete Guide to Truck Dispatch Services

Related terms

DispatchingThe function of finding, negotiating, and booking freight for a motor carrier and supporting drivers on the road.
Rate Confirmation (Rate Con)The written agreement between a broker and a carrier that documents the freight rate, accessorials, and terms for a specific load.
DispatcherAn employee or third-party agent who books freight and supports drivers on behalf of a motor carrier.

What Is a Truck Dispatcher? (Plain-English Guide)A truck dispatcher is a paid agent of a motor carrier who books freight, negotiates rate, and handles paperwork — without holding FMCSA broker authority.
How Much Do Truck Dispatch Services Cost in 2026?U.S. truck dispatch services cost 5–10% of gross load revenue. Owner-operators pay 8–10%; fleets pay 5–7%. Reputable shops charge no setup fee.
Dispatcher vs. Broker: What's the Real Difference?Dispatchers work for carriers under 49 CFR §371.2. Brokers are FMCSA-licensed, hold a $75K bond, and work for shippers — not both on one load.
12 Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Truck DispatcherVet any U.S. truck dispatcher in one 15-minute call with these 12 questions on RPM, credit vetting, rate-con workflow, and after-hours coverage.

Freight Broker

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