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How to Check a Freight Broker Before You Haul
A little checking up front saves a lot of trouble. These steps use public information.
Verify the authority
Look the broker up by MC or DOT number on the FMCSA website. Confirm that the authority is active and that the name matches the one on your paperwork.
Look at how new it is
A very new authority is not automatically bad, but it deserves more care. Load Guard shows the authority age for you.
Check insurance and bond
Brokers are required to have a surety bond or trust on file. Check that filings are current.
Call a number you found yourself
Scammers copy real company names. Do not trust a phone number or email that only appears in the load offer. Look up the number independently.
Warning signs
- Pressure to accept right now
- A rate far above the market for the lane
- Email addresses from free providers or slightly misspelled company names
- Changes to payment instructions
Keep records
Save the rate confirmation and the messages. LaneHook keeps them with the load.
Questions
Is a broker check a guarantee?
No. It reduces risk, and it cannot promise you will be paid.
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