It's the Freight360 podcast from Freight Broker Sales tips to Sports Talk. This podcast is all about helping you grow as a Freight Broker with your hosts, Nate Cross and Benjamin Kowalski. New episodes every Friday and our Q&A series "The Final Mile" every Tuesday. Join us as we dive into the freight industry to provide you with the latest in Freight Broker education and industry news. If you have a question you would like answered on our show visit the website below or leave a comment where ...
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In this podcast, I explain what a freight broker is and their vital role in the transportation industry. I discuss the importance of proper freight broker training, which helps individuals understand industry regulations, negotiations, and logistics management. I also highlight the various career opportunities available in this field and how it can lead to financial independence. Additionally, I cover the potential salary range for freight brokers, which varies based on experience and worklo ...
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Talk Freight with Craig Bliss, CTB --- Craig Bliss is the creator of Facebook’s largest networking group for freight broker/logistics professionals “FREIGHT BROKERS & TRUCK DRIVERS” Craig helps people become successful by providing a better understanding of what each side looks for to maximize potential & MAKE MORE MONEY!
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Military logistics is one of the most complex and overlooked areas in transportation. In this episode, we break down how moving freight for the Department of Defense really works—from navigating organizations like SDDC, to managing tight timelines, limited carrier capacity, and high-stakes coordination. You'll also hear firsthand stories and relati…
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Export Rail, Cross-Border Hay, and Load Cancellations | Final Mile 98
16:26
16:26
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16:26Stephen Ruhe & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: 🚆 Export & Domestic Rail Freight - How can brokers source both export and domestic rail freight? 🍁 Moving Hay from Canada to the U.S. - If you’re brokering freight like hay from Canada to the U.S., can you handle customs clearance yourself—or do you need to involve a c…
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Tech in Freight Brokerage | Episode 298
1:02:53
1:02:53
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1:02:53Benjamin and Stephen dive into how technology is changing freight brokerage in this episode of Freight 360: Using TMS and automation to boost efficiency Helping small brokerages adopt and improve tech Avoiding the hype and making sure systems actually work Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight…
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Insurance, Sourcing Freight, and Objections | Final Mile 97
23:02
23:02
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23:02Stephen Ruhe & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: ✅ Insurance and surety bond requirements for starting a freight brokerage in Florida 📦 How brokers find loads and the role of load boards vs. direct shippers 🚫 Handling the "we only work with asset-based carriers" objection Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free …
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The Art of Customer Relationship Building | Episode 297
54:07
54:07
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54:07🎧 This Freight 360 episode explores winning brokerage strategies, industry risks, and economic shifts. -Securing more freight through strong communication and customer value -FMCSA identity verification changes and rising fraud concerns -Tariffs, safety budget cuts, and their economic impact -Tech, AI, and personal productivity tips for brokers Sup…
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Working the Spot Market, Cold Calling Success, and Career Transitions in Logistics | Final Mile 96
20:58
20:58
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20:58Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: 📦 Are load boards enough? — Can brokers actually find spot market loads directly on load boards, or do they first need to secure customers independently and then post the freight? 📞 Cold call math — Out of 80 outbound calls, how many typically answer on the first try? An…
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The Future of Freight Payments: Outgo and DAT | Episode 296
1:09:38
1:09:38
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1:09:38In this episode of Freight 360, we’re joined by Ken Adamo, Chief of Analytics at DAT, and Marcus Womack, CEO and Co-founder of Outgo, to break down the current freight market and DAT’s recent acquisition of Outgo. We discuss how this move enhances payment speed, transparency, and financial control for carriers. Topics include challenges like capaci…
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Training, Automation, & More | Final Mile 95
36:38
36:38
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36:38Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Freight Broker Certificate Courses Canceling a Freight Brokerage Start-Up Covering Step Deck Loads AI for Freight Brokers Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get 10% off your first year! DAT Power - …
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Renegotiating Failed Bids | Episode 295
1:01:56
1:01:56
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1:01:56In this episode of Freight 360, we cover key issues in freight and trucking—from 4% of truckers being unlicensed to low freight volumes and economic pressures. They break down double brokering vs. interlining, highlight fraud and safety risks, and explore challenges in trailer rentals, bids, and project management Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - …
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DAT Rating, Insurance, and Contracts | Final Mile 94
20:23
20:23
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20:23Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: MC Authority Delay? New brokerage struggling on DAT — is 1.5 years to gain traction legit? Broker Contracts Help Lawyer vs. templates — what’s best for new logistics brokerages? Insurance Needed Hard time raising liability to $2M? Here's where to look. Cameron Pechia…
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Credit Policies for Freight Brokers | Episode 294
1:08:23
1:08:23
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1:08:23This episode exposes real cases of internal fraud at freight brokerages—from agents moving loads under fake approvals to inflating commissions and abandoning contracts. Learn how to protect your business with better system controls, document checks, and shared account access. Plus, hear how China’s tariff cuts could shake up freight volumes—and who…
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Transportation Law with Matt Leffler Part 2 | Episode 293
42:28
42:28
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42:28In this second segment of 2 part episode, attorney and law professor Matthew Leffler joins the hosts to unpack key legal issues in trucking. They cover non-compete agreements, broker transparency, driver safety, shipper-broker contracts, and recent cases like Werner and Wabash. Leffler shares insights on legal risks, evolving regulations, and how a…
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Transportation Law with Matt Leffler Part 1 | Episode 293
1:05:34
1:05:34
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1:05:34In this first segment of 2 part episode, attorney and law professor Matthew Leffler joins the hosts to unpack key legal issues in trucking. They cover non-compete agreements, broker transparency, driver safety, shipper-broker contracts, and recent cases like Werner and Wabash. Leffler shares insights on legal risks, evolving regulations, and how au…
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Inspections, Landstar, & Top Load Boards Explained | Final Mile 92
19:20
19:20
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19:20Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: 🔍 Why brokers request carrier inspections 🧑💼 Is Landstar a good choice for agents? 📦 Best load boards for freight brokers Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get 10% off your first year! DAT Power -…
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Email Essentials for Freight Brokers | Episode 292
58:58
58:58
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58:58Poor email habits can cost you customers. In this episode, we break down the fundamentals of professional email communication for freight brokers and why it matters more than you think. 🔹 Write clear, purpose-driven messages 🔹 Use subject lines and recipient lists effectively 🔹 Repackage sloppy carrier emails before forwarding 🔹 Always follow up ca…
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Are Brokers Parasites? & More Q&A | Final Mile 91
17:25
17:25
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17:25Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Is there a platform where brokers can bid on available freight shipments? What should I do if someone is fraudulently using my MC number to book loads? I'm getting started as a broker, but people say I can't compete with the big guys—any advice? Responding to claims that…
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When it comes to vetting motor carriers, each freight broker has their own preferences on what to look for and what to avoid. In this episode, we're opening the hood on our own personal rule sets that we use when selecting motor carriers. Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get…
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How to Make $1M Per Year as a Freight Broker | Final Mile 90
22:56
22:56
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22:56Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Should I be using an official quote form when sending pricing to a customer? Is it realistic to earn $1 million a year as a cradle-to-grave rep handling mostly LTL with 25% commission? When managing LTL and FTL with FedEx and UPS, should I explore alternative shipping op…
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In this episode of Freight 360, the hosts break down freight brokering basics with a focus on carrier selection and fraud prevention. They cover how the current economy affects the industry, share a global outlook, and dive into a real case of identity theft. Key takeaways include best practices for vetting carriers, staying ahead of fraud tactics,…
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Bulk Loads, GPS Tracking, & More Q&A | Final Mile 89
18:16
18:16
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18:16Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: What's the biggest challenge brokers face when it comes to shipping freight? How to find bulk carriers and handle washout requirements. GPS tracking issues: Why isn't it pinging every 30 minutes like it should? Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click He…
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Freight Broker Essentials: The Basics | Episode 289
58:02
58:02
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58:02Ever wonder why some freight brokerages thrive while others constantly struggle with cash flow problems? The answer lies in mastering the fundamentals that many brokers overlook. In this eye-opening episode, we explore the critical but often neglected basics that make or break your brokerage operation. We share real stories of brokerages that gener…
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Prospecting, Fuel Surcharges & Blind Loads | Final Mile 88
19:16
19:16
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19:16Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: 🔍 How to find the right companies to prospect — and who to contact once you do ⛽️ How to calculate fuel surcharge when quoting a customer 🙈 What blind shipments are and why shippers use them Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Her…
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Common Accessorial Charges | Episode 288
1:03:33
1:03:33
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1:03:33🚚 In this episode, we cover: ⏱ What accessorial charges are (detention, layovers, TONU, lumpers & more) 📄 How to document charges and avoid disputes 📉 Real-world examples of how mishandling accessorials hurts profits and relationships Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get 10%…
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Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: 📞 What does “100 calls per day” really mean—total dials or the number of companies contacted? 🚫 Is there a way to get more customers without cold calling? What can a new broker do after struggling with outreach? 💸 When does a shipper typically pay a new brokerage, and ho…
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The Hidden Risks of Running a Freight Brokerage | Episode 287
1:03:47
1:03:47
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1:03:47Profits can vanish fast when brokers cut corners. Nate kicks things off with a wild National Guard story from inside New York prisons, then we dive into real-life brokerage disasters: a $50K trailer fail, insurance loopholes that killed claims, and a rejected tanker load no one wants to touch. If you’re in freight, these lessons could save your bus…
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Breaking Into Freight Brokerage: Essential Q&A for Success | Final Mile 86
21:19
21:19
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21:19Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Does Your Business Name Matter? – Should you change “Transportation” to “Logistics” when you become a broker? Cold Calling 101 – How to approach shippers as a new broker and what your outreach should sound like. Finding Carriers When You’re New – Strategies to build carr…
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n this podcast, I explain what a freight broker is and their vital role in the transportation industry. I discuss the importance of proper freight broker training, which helps individuals understand industry regulations, negotiations, and logistics management. I also highlight the various career opportunities available in this field and how it can …
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Freight 360 Live: Maximizing DAT Tools for Brokers | Episode 286
1:07:04
1:07:04
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1:07:04Get 10% off a Year of DAT: Click Here 🔹 DAT Features – Explore qualification settings, company profiles, and market insights. 📊 Leveraging Data Analytics – Use tools like Benchmark & LaneMakers to optimize operations. 📈 Navigating Market Shifts – Learn how seasonal changes impact capacity and pricing. 💰 Boosting Profitability – Improve decision-mak…
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Getting New Customers & More Q&A | Final Mile 85
20:12
20:12
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20:12Ben & Stephen answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Prospecting as a New Broker – Key advice for getting started and landing shippers. Using the BOL for Leads – How to leverage Bills of Lading to start conversations. Building Carrier Trust – Overcoming factoring issues and earning credibility. Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a …
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We're doing a live podcast this Thursday with DAT to help show you the best ways to maximize your tools to increase your profits and carrier network. Make sure to join us on LinkedIn or YouTube this week, March 20th at 2pm EST. You can interact and ask questions if you watch live, otherwise it will be available for everyone as a recording just like…
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Breaking Down the Freight Broker Role | Episode 285
1:01:09
1:01:09
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1:01:09Benjamin and Stephen break down the many roles in freight brokerage, from freight agents to carrier sales reps, and the challenges of customer acquisition. They dive into market trends, tariffs, cargo theft, and cyber scams, highlighting the need for clearer job titles and stronger fraud enforcement. Plus, they discuss AI’s impact on logistics and …
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TONUs, Freight Rates, & More Q&A | Final Mile 84
38:28
38:28
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38:28Ben & Stephen answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: TONU Fees & Cancellations – Is it reasonable to charge a 24-hour cancellation fee on shipments? (Sounds like a TONU question.) Trucking Cost Per Mile – What’s the industry average for a trucking company? Comparing $1.80 vs. $2.07 per mile. Freight Broker vs. Sales Jobs – How does be…
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Trump Tariffs & Cross-Border Freight (with Dean Croke of DAT) | Episode 284
56:05
56:05
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56:05Ben and Dean break down recent US-Canada tariff changes, covering their impact on freight volumes, rates, and carrier challenges. Dean shares insights on operating costs, a possible freight recession, and long-term trade policy effects. They also discuss market volatility, strategies for navigating tough conditions, and the importance of strong par…
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New Freight Broker Mistakes & More Q&A | Final Mile 83
25:41
25:41
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25:41Ben & Stephen answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Dispatching Trucks from Abroad – Challenges and considerations for carriers managing operations remotely. Carrier Perspective on Rates – The push for higher rates and the costs carriers must cover. Onboarding Challenges – What happens when a carrier isn’t set up late in the day? New…
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Back Office Fundamentals in Freight Brokerage | Episode 283
1:01:35
1:01:35
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1:01:35💰 Back Office Basics for Freight Brokers In this episode of Freight 360, Benjamin and Stephen break down the back-office fundamentals that keep a freight brokerage running smoothly. They get into the nitty-gritty of invoicing, payment processes, and the headaches that come with detention and accessorial fees. Cash flow is king in this business, so …
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Lumpers, Dispatchers, & More Q&A | Final Mile 82
27:24
27:24
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27:24Ben & Stephen answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Handling extra costs like lumper fees and detention fees – when to charge the shipper Calculating fuel surcharges – is it built into the rate or added later? Working with airlines and MRO repair facilities – thoughts on dedicated aviation freight Why do some brokers refuse to work w…
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We Met FreightBrokerGuy! | Episode 282
1:04:14
1:04:14
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1:04:14You may have heard of him or even seen his wild Tweets on X - we finally got to sit down with FreightBrokerGuy and his story is a wild one. Talk about finding a niche in the freight broker industry. This one is a fun one, and we've been waiting a long time to do it! Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here D…
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Freight Accidents, Broker Tools, & More Q&A | Final Mile 81
18:38
18:38
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18:38Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: 🚛 Handling Accidents on Your Loads – What to do when an accident happens involving one of your shipments. 🖥️ Essential Software for a New Brokerage – What’s worth the investment and where you can cut costs when launching your freight brokerage. 📄 Brokers & BOLs – Do cust…
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How Freight Brokers Quote New Shippers | Episode 281
1:03:15
1:03:15
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1:03:15🎙 Mastering Freight Rates & Market Trends Unlock the keys to freight success in this episode! We break down essential strategies for quoting, negotiating, and navigating market shifts in logistics. 🔹 Freight Rate Negotiations – Tips to master the art of pricing and securing the best deals. 🔹 Trucking Capacity & Market Trends – How to interpret heat…
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Dispatcher Pay, New Broker Tips, & Produce Claims | Final Mile 80
22:52
22:52
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22:52Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: 💰 Dispatcher Fees – How much should you pay per load or per week for tracking and tracing? 🎯 Lessons for New Brokers – The one piece of advice industry veterans wish they had when starting. 🚛 Broker vs. Carrier Load Dumping – Why brokers sometimes tell carriers to dump l…
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How to Move Your First Load With a New Customer | Episode 280
57:58
57:58
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57:58🎙️ Freight, Trade & Touchdowns Freight Brokerage 101 – Learn how to quote a new shipper and secure your first load. Trade & Tariffs – The impact of trade wars, Mexican border policies, and USPS parcel suspensions. NFL & Laughs – Super Bowl hot takes, referee favoritism, and Ben’s daddy-daughter dance. LTL Changes – Updates on freight class shifts a…
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Low Rates, Claims, & More Q&A | Final Mile 79
18:09
18:09
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18:09Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Working as a Freight Broker as a Foreigner Low Rates Explained Freight Claims with a Co-Broker Arrangement Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get 10% off your first year! DAT Power - Brokers & Carri…
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Sales Pipeline Management & Follow Up | Episode 279
1:05:19
1:05:19
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1:05:19We recently talked about prospecting and lead generation, but how do you follow up with a shipper? What do you say? When should you follow up? These are common questions and we're breaking this down in detail on this second episode in a series on freight broker prospecting. Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Clic…
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Taxes, Carrier Partnerships, and Broker Transparency | Final Mile 78
18:12
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18:12Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Freight Broker Taxes Building a Carrier Network Broker Transparency Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get 10% off your first year! DAT Power - Brokers & Carriers: Click Here Recommended Products: C…
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🎙️ Master Freight Sales with Confidence Ready to exceed your shippers' expectations? In this episode of Freight360, we share essential strategies to elevate your freight sales game. 🌟 What You’ll Learn: Smart Sales Strategies: Balance price, service, and quality while identifying ideal customers. Cold Calling Confidence: Overcome nerves, build trus…
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Bonus Episode: Chiefs vs. Bills Preview (with Trey Griggs)
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21:21
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21:21As the AFC Championship looms, we’re asking the big questions: Can Josh Allen and the Bills finally topple the Mahomes-Kelce connection, or will the Chiefs' dynasty march on? We're bringing you every play, every stat, and every moment that matters from this epic clash of titans. 🏈 Ready to dive into the future of the league? Hit play, and let’s tal…
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Cold Calling Strategies & More Q&A | Final Mile 77
21:41
21:41
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21:41Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Understanding spot rates Cold calling strategies Credit approval for customers Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get 10% off your first year! DAT Power - Brokers & Carriers: Click Here Recommended …
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Mastering Difficult Conversations and Broker Communication | Episode 277
59:36
59:36
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59:36Mastering Tough Conversations Transform your communication skills with insights from economics, business, and freight. Explore the impact of cultural communication differences in business. Learn how economic trends shape the freight and logistics industry. Discover the power of honest conversations in building trust and stronger partnerships. Liste…
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New Brokers, ELD Tracking, Lumper Fees & More | Final Mile 76
16:31
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16:31Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Starting Out: Wait 3-6 months with MC/US DOT before prospecting? ELD Tracking: DAT vs. Trucker Tools for brokers. Reefer Temps: Use to stand out from competition? Payment Issues: Broker owes, 60 claims against bond—what to do? Lumper Fees: Why are carriers charged EFS ch…
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Level Up Your Freight Brokerage in 2025 | Episode 276
57:18
57:18
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57:18As we dive into 2025, it's essential to reset our habits and align strategies to navigate the changing freight market landscape successfully. This episode emphasizes the importance of adjusting routines, strengthening customer relationships, and developing proactive plans to handle market fluctuations. • Importance of resetting habits after the hol…
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