How to check a freight broker before you haul
Updated October 2026
Most brokers pay. The ones that don't can cost you thousands. Check every new broker before you book.
1. Look up their authority
Search the broker's MC or USDOT number on the FMCSA's public lookup and confirm their broker authority is active.
2. Confirm the bond or trust
Brokers must keep $75,000 in financial security on file (a BMC-84 surety bond or BMC-85 trust). Make sure it shows as active.
3. Check the contact details
Call the phone number on the FMCSA record, not the number in the email, to confirm the load is real. Scammers impersonate real brokers.
4. Check credit and days to pay
Ask your factoring company whether they'll buy the broker's invoices, and use any credit service you have access to.
5. Read the rate confirmation
Rate, pickup and delivery details, accessorials, payment terms and the broker's MC number should all be in writing before you dispatch.
