What Does a Landstar Broker Do?

If you’ve heard of Landstar, you might have wondered what it takes to become a freight broker for a major logistics company. 

As an entirely agent-driven company, Landstar operates an extensive network of carriers across North America and beyond. Landstar’s unique business model provides opportunities for agents, carriers, and owner-operators alike. 

So, what does a Landstar broker do? And what does it take to become one?

What is a Landstar broker, and what do they do?

A Landstar broker, or Landstar agent, is a freight agent who coordinates the transportation of shipments on behalf of clients, across the Landstar network. 

This is a multifaceted and fast-paced role that keeps the wheels of the supply chain turning – literally. 

Let’s explore a little more about what a Landstar agent does on a day-to-day basis and how they operate as a part of the wider Landstar network.

What is a Landstar broker?

A Landstar broker operates as an independent contractor within the wider Landstar network of carriers, owner-operators, and agents.

As a Landstar broker, you’ll source your own leads, reach out to potential clients, and liaise with customers to best meet their transportation needs. This involves finding the optimum logistics solutions for customers, arranging shipments with carriers, ensuring the shipment arrives safely and on time, and communicating with the client throughout their shipment journey. 

Unlike starting from scratch, operating as a part of the Landstar network gives you access to the back-office support, high capacity, and brand recognition that will set you up to succeed. 

How does a Landstar broker operate?

Freight agents benefit from the support, expertise, and equipment offered by the company they partner with. 

As a Landstar broker, you’ll have direct access to a range of transportation options, including:

• Over-the-road (OTR) freight shipping carriers, offering fleets of trailers, step-decks, and heavy-haul vehicles, temperature-controlled vans, and more.
• Rail intermodal shipping carriers
• Air freight carriers
• Carriers specializing in cross-border transportation

With everything you need right at your fingertips, you’ll work as an independent business owner to provide world-class transportation services to a range of clients. 

As you do so, you’ll earn a commission from Landstar while building your book of clients, gaining experience, and learning more about the logistics industry.

What are the benefits of being a Landstar broker?

Operating as a broker through Landstar comes with a range of benefits – not least knowing you’re backed by a Fortune 500 company. 

As an independent agent of Landstar, you’ll:

• Operate as an independent business owner
• Have the support of Landstar to help you succeed
• Have the flexibility to set your own priorities and targets
• Have no limits on your potential earnings 
• Gain access to the tools and technology of an industry-leading company

Do I have what it takes to become a Landstar broker?

If you like what you’re hearing, then a career as a freight broker could be calling. 

But what does it take to get started as a Landstar broker? What skills and experience does Landstar require, and what other options are out there if you’re just getting started?

What you need to get started as a freight broker

If you’re hoping to get started as a freight broker, it might benefit you to have a strong background in project management, sales and customer service, or logistics. 

However, even without this type of background, there are some skills and traits that can go a long way in contributing to your freight broker’s success. 

Some skills and characteristics that freight brokers can benefit from include:

• Demonstrating high-level knowledge and understanding of the trucking industry
• Having excellent customer service and verbal communication skills
• Being natural organizers, who manage multiple projects with ease
• Experience managing others or liaising with stakeholders
• Showing great business acuity and networking skills
• Problem-solving skills and an ability to approach challenges laterally to find solutions.

What you need to get started as a Landstar freight broker

While specific requirements may vary, to get started on your freight broker journey with Landstar, you’ll usually need: 

• Demonstrable experience in sales, operations, or transportation
• An established book of business or existing business relationships
• A strong entrepreneurial spirit and a passion to succeed
• Access to a telephone, computer, and the internet

Looking to start your freight broker success story today? 

If you’re looking to become a Landstar broker, or interested in finding out more about what it takes, Jansson is here to help you get started. 

While Landstar requires significant experience from its applicants, Jansson looks beyond specific entry requirements to prioritize the potential to succeed in this industry.  

As a smaller agent of Landstar, Jansson is able to offer freight broker training that covers how to locate customers, how to price shipments correctly, and how to cover loads. We’ll also ensure you’re set up with the operational and sales tools you need to not only get the job done but to do it well.  

Offering access to all types of applicants, with or without an established book of business, Jansson is here to provide you with the tools, training, and support you need to succeed as a freight broker. 

As an independent agent of Landstar, Jansson offers access to an extensive network of carriers, warehousing options, and logistics solutions. 

To find out more about how you can become a Landstar broker, reach out to us at Jansson today!