The right broker can keep your network full. The wrong broker can create cash-flow risk, claims exposure, and endless disputes. Choosing well is a business protection decision.
Start with legitimacy: verify authority and basic business details, and understand how they handle carrier onboarding and claims. Do not skip due diligence when you are busy.
Pay terms matter. Know the standard terms, quick-pay fees, and whether the contract includes “pay-when-paid” language that shifts customer non-payment risk onto you.
Read contracts for red flags: unlimited liability, aggressive offsets/deductions, restrictive non-competes, and unclear re-brokering/subcontracting language.
Operational fit is as important as the rate. Good brokers communicate clearly, provide accurate load details, and resolve exceptions quickly without surprises.
Build a small scorecard and review brokers over time: on-time payment, claim handling, detention fairness, and how often load details change after acceptance.