Are you tired of driving? Do you wish you could earn money while sitting in your car? If so, becoming a freight agent might be the perfect fit for you. Freight agents play a central role in the logistic and transportation industry. They work as the connection between truck owners, shippers, and customers. The opportunity has a great income potential too.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, freight agents can make over $ 48,420 per year. This amount is awesome particularly when the job is an extra income source. The job has other benefits such as flexibility, working from home, and chance to become an entrepreneur.
But like other professions, you need to meet some basic requirement to join the freight industry. Here are some of the aspects you need to become a freight agent:
Education level
You can learn most of the skill on-job when you join the freight industry. The sector does not have a minimum education level. Anyone can join it despite their qualification. However, you will be more successful when your qualifications matches those of other players in the industry.
Some freight agents have joined the industry with just a high school diploma. Though they succeed, having a college diploma or bachelor’s degree comes with additional benefits. These qualifications will enhance your confidence and display professionalism to your potential clients.
Experience in freight industry
Do you have some experience in the freight industry? As they say, experience is the best teacher. Working in an industry for a given period equips you with extensive skills. These practical skills are essential in determining your success in this industry.
Essentially, the experience will work for you when join an independent freight program. Being in the industry means that you understand the challenges the shippers and truck owners/drivers face. This means that you will know how to address them and win more customers. As well, you already have links and networks that you can utilize to get your business of the ground.
So, if you want to relax and earn an income after leaving the logistic industry, becoming a freight agent can be a perfect route.
Computer proficiency
Computer knowledge is no longer an option. It is a must-have in all industries. Whether you are a nurse, manager, mechanic, or an entrepreneur, you will need basic computer skills to thrive. The aspect is no different in the freight industry.
Computer proficiency might not be must-have. However, a large part of your tasks will involve computer and in the internet. You will need to monitor the shipment and deliveries using a transport management system. Doing this can be a nightmare if you have zero computer knowledge. So, computer proficiency is not exceptional if you want to succeed as a freight agent.
Operating license
Generally, you do not need a license to become a freight agent. You can work with an established freight service providers. However, you will require a license when dealing with some cargo shipment.
Government might require you to get a license to ship a given cargo. Also, the law on running a freight agent business varies from one country to the other. For instance, if you are working for US truck carriers, you will need a license from Department of Motor Carriers Safety Association. So, ensure you understand the statutory requirements in your area before becoming a freight agent.
Interpersonal skills
Interpersonal skills is another crucial set for anyone seeking to establish their feet in the freight industry. Like other business, you must network and convince truck carriers and shippers that you are the best freight agent. This calls for exceptional interpersonal skills.
To succeed, you must be a good listener, communicator, and negotiator at personal and professional levels. The targets must feel that you understand their challenges and needs before deciding to work with you.
Remember, you will be a bridge between the freight agency, carriers/shippers, and customers. This means that your communication and persuasion must be epic to win business. Hence, interpersonal skills are crucial in this sector.
Freight agent program
Though you can establish your freight agency, many agents start with joining a freight agent program. This program helps you to set your footage in the freight industry. Some freight brokerage company allow you to join their program.
Basically, this program makes you an agent of an existing freight brokerage company. You become their representative and earn a commission for business you bring to them. So, if you want to thrive in this venture, joining a freight agent program is a nice idea.
And those are the qualifications you require to become a freight agent.
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