Q&A With Bryan VanGeertry On Freight Agency Ownership: A Career Opportunity With a Big Future

Owning a freight agency has many benefits, including work-life balance and substantial income. But you probably wonder what the future holds for you after becoming a freight agent. Below, Bryan VanGeertry, Manager of Partner Channel Development at GlobalTranz, answers five questions about what you can expect in the years to come after embarking on this lucrative career path and why the GlobalTranz Freight Agent Program is a top choice for freight agents. Plus, we provide 10 additional ways a freight agency will future-proof your career!

How will the role of freight agents change in the next five years in your opinion?

Bryan VanGeertry: The need for freight agent partners is only going to increase as the major third-party logistics (3PL) providers in the industry continue to grow. Freight agents are generally small business owners and that really resonates with the small to midsized (SMB) and mid-market space, particularly when compared to a direct sales force from the carrier level for example. So, being there for the shipper, advocating for their needs and diversifying their options are all crucial.

What is GlobalTranz doing specifically to prepare freight agents for the future?

Bryan VanGeertry: Now more than ever, we have poured a lot of resources into growth, development and scalability. As we move into the second half of 2024, we have a few things in particular that will impact the service side for our partner channel. We have an internal team that seeks out hiring opportunities for our agent partners looking to add head count. On top of that, we have introduced the Sales 101 and Sales Level II training programs which have had a huge impact not only on growth, but also culture throughout our agencies. Overall, we are ensuring that freight agents are ready for the future and whatever it will bring.

What role does technology play in the future of freight agencies?

Bryan VanGeertry: Freight agent technology is pivotal, offering enhanced visibility through GPS and IoT, while automation through AI streamlines the operations side and boosts efficiency. This is also a space for us to improve the customer experience with personalized services and real-time updates. Our freight agents really have an opportunity to provide innovative resources to their customers and become an essential part of their operations as these relationships grow.

Will the needs of shippers change in the future? If so, how are those within the GlobalTranz freight agent program uniquely equipped to meet these changes?

Bryan VanGeertry: As technology continues to evolve, shippers also will have to evolve to meet consumer expectations. The expertise and adaptability of our freight agents will play a big role in a shipper's ability to expand and scale their own business. With access to industry-leading technology and a multitude of carrier partners and shipping solutions, our freight agents will continue to be leaders in ongoing industry transformations.

Financially speaking, is there a growing opportunity for a freight agency to make more money in the coming years?

Bryan VanGeertry: I think as the economy recovers, as it always does, there will be an uptick in trade volumes. And now more than ever, there is also a major demand for specialized expertise. Being able to leverage the GlobalTranz Freight Agent Program internal teams for special services allows our agents to attack any market or niche. In addition to that, there is a growing trend on value-added services like integration and sustainability consulting. Being diversified gives our agents the ability to be long-term advocates for our shippers — which will make them valued partners in the future and lead to greater income potential.

10 Additional Reasons Why Freight Agency Ownership Is a Career of the Future

Looking for more reasons to become a freight agent? Look no further than our comprehensive list which covers future career opportunities, continuous learning, scalable growth and more!

• High demand for logistics professionals — As global trade and e-commerce continue to grow, the demand for skilled freight agents who can manage and optimize shipping logistics will increase.
• Entrepreneurial opportunities — Experienced freight agents may have the chance to start their own freight brokerage or logistics company in the future, leveraging their industry knowledge to create a successful business.
• Continuous learning and growth — The dynamic nature of the logistics industry means that freight agents can continually learn about innovative technologies, regulations and market trends, keeping their careers engaging and evolving.
• Impact on supply chains — As supply chains become more complex, freight agents will be crucial in navigating and managing these intricate networks, providing essential expertise in logistics and transportation.
• Networking opportunities — Owning a freight agency provides access to a broad network of industry professionals, including suppliers, shippers and carriers, which can lead to valuable business relationships and partnerships that continue for years into the future.
• Community impact — As a freight agency grows in the years to come, it can create employment opportunities within the community, contributing positively to the local economy and enhancing the owner's reputation.
• Scalability — A freight agency can start on a small scale and expand its operations regionally or nationally as it grows, offering significant scalability potential and the ability to tap into new markets.
• Enhanced customer expectations — Rising customer expectations for transparency, speed and reliability will drive demand for freight agents who can deliver high-quality, personalized service and manage customer relationships effectively.
• Opportunities in innovation — Innovations such as autonomous vehicles, drone deliveries and smart warehouses will create new opportunities for freight agents to work with advanced logistics solutions to enhance operational efficiency.
• Diverse career paths — Freight agents will have access to a variety of career paths and specializations, including international logistics, niche markets and technology-driven roles, allowing for career growth and diversification.