Being a freight agent can be an ideal job and career path for many people. When you are a freight agent, you can work independently but also through a freight agency. Working with a freight agency often makes sense as you can benefit from their reputation and support services. When you are looking to join a new freight agency, you will find there are a variety of options to consider. There are various factors to take into consideration when you are interested in joining a new freight agency.
Reputation and Track Record in the Field and Industry
One of the main factors that you should consider before joining a new freight agency is the reputation and track record of the freight agency in the industry. A freight agency should help you build a brand and name recognition, which is very important when you are new to the field. While a good freight agency can help you find new clients and build your own personal brand, a freight agency with a poor reputation can actually be a deterrent. Because of this, you should choose to work with a freight agency that has a great reputation.
Services they Provide to Agents
Another factor to consider when you are looking for a freight agency to join is the type of service that you will receive. The main benefit of working with a freight agency is that you can receive support, which will help you run your business more effectively. Some common services to look out for include providing necessary training and certification support, back office support services to ensure you are able to fulfill services with clients, and getting general guidance and advice on how to be successful as a freight agent.
Cost of Being a Member of an Agency
It is also important that you consider the costs that can come with being a member of an agency. While there are services that are provided by freight agencies that can make joining a good idea, the agency does need to earn some revenue to cover these costs and many freight agents will incur this expense. When you are a member of an agency, you will likely have to pay a commission for each sale to the agency and you may have a monthly overhead cost as well. It is important that you understand the costs of each option and compare them properly.
Limitations Set by Being a Member
You should also consider whether the new freight agency will have any limitations imposed on new freight agents. One of the advantages that can come with working by yourself and not with a freight agency is that you will not be restricted to a local area or niche. When working with a new freight agency, it is important that you understand if there are any limitations that could impact the way you run your own small freight agent business. If these limitations would impact your ability to find new clients and provide top service, it may not be a good option for you.
Contract Terms
Finally, when you are going to join a new freight agency, it is important that you carefully consider all of the contract terms. When you sign with an agency, you are likely to have to sign a contract. It is very important that you review this carefully to ensure you are comfortable with all of the business points. You should look out for the term of the contracts, cancellation provisions for both parties and how both parties will be compensated.
Freight agents continue to provide a very valuable service that is in high demand with a variety of parties. When you are looking to become a freight agent, working with a large and established freight agency can be a good idea. There are various factors to take into consideration when you are evaluating different freight agencies to work with.
