Category Archives: Freight Bill Factoring

6 Steps to Getting a Freight Broker License

What is a Freight Broker?

A freight broker is essentially a “middle man” between two parties: a business that requires the careful shipment of goods, and the authorized motor carrier who will be doing the shipping. A freight broker doesn’t actually transport anything themselves. Instead, think of them more as an important part of the logistics side of the equation.

They will help make sure that the needs of the client business are understood and taken care of all throughout the process. They’ll match that client up with a carrier capable of meeting their specific needs. They help manage financial risk for all parties and can even assist in addressing things like carrier safety, compliance, and potential fraud.

One of the many benefits of being a freight broker is that there is virtually no limit on the amount of money you can make. You get to be an active part of the logistics industry without commuting or spending a lot of time on the road, and there are also low startup costs as well. Being a freight broker also comes with low overhead expenses as you don’t have to worry about actually shipping the goods or paying to properly maintain a fleet of vehicles.
In order to operate as a freight broker, however, you will need to get your freight broker license. This isn’t necessarily a difficult process, but it is a precise one that you must follow. There are a few steps in particular that you’ll definitely want to account for moving forward.

Steps to Acquiring Your License

1. Meet Requirements

Arguably, the most important step to getting your freight broker license involves making sure that you meet all the necessary requirements to embrace this long and fruitful career. That means investing in training if you have not already had the opportunity to do so.

There are a wide range of online training courses you can take that will give you the knowledge you’ll need to excel while on-the-job. There are also a number of training books that can help you out. If you already have a freight brokerage company that you’re planning on working with but just haven’t met the formal requirement of having a license yet, you’ll likely be able to speak to them to get some hands-on practice and experience.

Remember that this is absolutely one of those situations where “continuous improvement” is a goal that you should be striving for.

2. Gain Knowledge of the Industry

During this period, you’ll also want to gain as much knowledge about the industry itself as possible. Don’t lose sight of the fact that this is a business, the same as anything else. So you’ll want to know as much as you can about the ins and outs of how things work, all so that you can use this knowledge to your advantage.

Case in point: choosing a business structure. For tax purposes, there are three main structures you can choose from depending on your needs. You could be a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or a corporation. There is no “one size fits all” answer regarding which type you should select. Each will have long-term implications regarding how you can earn money and how you’ll be taxed on that income. If you’re not sure where to begin or are confused about the intricacies of the process, it’s always recommended that you consult the help of a business attorney. That way, you can be confident knowing that you’re making the best decision possible.

3. Obtain a DOT Number

In order to operate a freight brokerage business in the United States, you need to have a DOT (or USDOT) number. This is something that you get through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, otherwise known as the FMCSA for short.

Note that you will obtain your DOT number when you fill out and submit form OP-1 (see below for additional information). However, because this is a strict requirement for operating at all, it’s important enough that it warrants a separate mention.

4. Register with FMCSA

It’s also important to note that you will need a process agent not just in the state that you’re based in, but in every state that you plan on writing broker contracts in. This is essential because in the event that you are ever sued, the process agent is the person who will agree to accept any court papers on your behalf. This is who a process server would look for to serve a summons, for example.

To properly register with the FMCSA, you’ll need to fill out CForm BOC-.

5. Obtain a Trust Fund or Bond

As per the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act, all freight brokers are required to have a $75,000 freight broker bond. This is a special type of bond that covers not only yourself, but also any of your affiliates, for up to $75,000 in the event that any claim filed against you is successful.

In terms of running a business, this bond helps to immediately give you a much-needed level of credibility. It’s also a way to prevent fraud and to compensate any shippers or other carriers that you may not pay in a timely manner for whatever reason.

6. Submit OP-1 Form

Finally, once you’ve completed all the aforementioned steps and your business structure is firmly in place, you’ll want to fill out your OP-1 form. This is an application form that will get sent to the FMCSA that includes a general overview of who you are and how you plan to operate.

Just a few of the pieces of information you’ll need to submit along with your application include but are not limited to ones like:

The name of your company.

Your name.

Your address and other relevant contact information.

The type of operating authority.

To speak to the type of operating authority in particular, you’ll have two options to choose from depending on your situation: a “Broker of Household Goods” or a “Broker of Property (Except Household Goods).” This will be directly impacted by the career path you see for yourself.

Note that when you submit your OP-1 form, you will also have to pay a filing fee for each type of license you have in mind. As of 2024, that filing fee is $300.

If you’d like to find out more information about the important steps you need to take to get your freight broker license, or if you have any additional questions that you’d like to go over with someone in a bit more detail, please don’t hesitate to contact the team at Advanced Commercial Capital today.

How to Calculate & Determine Freight Class

Understanding Freight Class

What Is Freight Class?

Every type of product that a business ships is associated with a National Motor Freight Classification. This in turn relates to a precise freight class number, which typically ranges from 60 to 400. In addition to making sure that all organizations are paying correctly for the actual items they’re shipping, this also helps to avoid the wasting of time, money, and other resources throughout the logistics pipeline.

Why Is It Important?

Freight classes are determined by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, otherwise known as the NMFTA for short. Because of this standardized measurement, it is possible to have standard pricing across all LTL freight carriers and businesses, dramatically simplifying the process and making it more cost-effective.

LTL Shipping and Metrics

Special Features of LTL

Short for “less-than-truckload,” LTL shipping does not require a business to fill an entire trailer for shipping. Instead, they’re sharing that space with multiple other organizations, thus only paying for the exact amount of space they need to use.

The major difference between this and other types of shipping is that LTL uses a “hub and spoke” shipping model. Instead of shipping items directly from an origin to a destination, LTL loads may go through various distribution centers for unloading, consolidation, and more before final delivery.

Determining Transport Metrics

Carefully figuring out transport details is crucial for improving operations. This process involves identifying and analyzing various key performance indicators (KPIs) to gain insights into the overall performance of a transportation network. Metrics such as travel time, vehicle speed, congestion levels, and reliability play a pivotal role in assessing the effectiveness of a transportation system. By using technologies like GPS and sensors, transportation engineers, urban planners, data analysts, and other stakeholders can collect information in real-time to see what’s going well and where they can improve operations. Analyzing these details helps improve transportation and allows for the development of plans to make it work even better in the future.

Factors for Freight Class

Density

One of the most important factors that determines freight class, beyond the actual commodity being shipped, is density. Take the total cubic feet of the items being shipped and divide by their total weight. The lower the density, the higher the freight class.

Handling, Liability, Stowability

The term “handling” refers to how easy something is to transport. Items that are oddly shaped, hazardous, fragile, or extremely heavy would require special handling and thus additional fees.

Liability relates to how likely an item is to get damaged or stolen in transit. Likewise, it has to do with how likely an item is to damage other items during shipment. The higher the liability, the more you will pay.

Finally, stowability assumes that, provided it has been packaged properly, freight should be easy to stow during transportation. This includes not only in trucks but on trains, boats, and even planes. If a shipment is particularly difficult to load and stow or if certain precautions must be taken, it will usually correspond with a higher freight class.

Calculating Freight Density

Step-by-Step Guide

First, measure the length, width, and height of the shipment in question. Be sure to include all pallets and other packaging materials.

Multiply the height, width, and length measurements together. The number you get is the total cubic inches of the shipment. Divide that number by 1728 to convert it to cubic feet.

Next, find the weight of your shipment, which should be measured in pounds. Once identified, divide the weight by the cubic feet. This will give you the number of pounds per cubic foot, which is otherwise known as density.

At that point, all you have to do is look at the appropriate freight class chart to find the freight class for your shipment.

Freight Class Codes

Classes and Chart

Remember that freight classes are an industry standard, so any freight class chart you look at should contain the same information. If your freight class code is 60, for example, you’re likely shipping something along the lines of car parts or other accessories. A freight class code of 77.5 usually equates to items like tires and bathroom fixtures. A freight class code of 92.5 refers to computers, monitors, refrigerators, and similar large, fragile items.

3PLs and Freight Class

Some third party logistics providers may have their own specific guidelines that you must use when determining freight class. So long as you have measured all your shipments appropriately, this should not be difficult to determine. You’ll still have accurate data to work from when determining which class you fall into (and what rate you will pay), even if the price is ultimately different from what is considered an industry standard.

Optimizing Density

The number one way to optimize the density of your shipments is to make use of every last inch of space available to you. This is why a lot of businesses invest in custom shipping materials that leave little to no wasted space in a box. Doing so may cost a bit more upfront as opposed to using “one size fits all” materials, but it can save you quite a bit of money on logistics costs in the long run.

In other words, there should be as little empty space in a box or package as possible. If you have to, use airbags or bubble wrap to fill in those gaps. This will help provide a cushion to the goods being shipped without adding too much in additional weight.

Speaking of dimensions, you’ll also want to make sure that you’re measuring your shipments as accurately as possible. Even a height that is off by a few inches or a weight that is off by a few pounds can make a major difference in terms of how much you think the load weighs, which will impact density and how much you’ll pay as a result.

Finally, make sure that all shipments are loaded and secured as carefully as possible. Boxes that are shaped similarly should all be grouped together to maximize how much you can fit on a pallet. Heavier items should always be at the bottom to create a stable foundation. Everything needs to be secured in place using plastic wrap to prevent the weight from shifting. The tighter you can pack everything, the more accurately you’ll be able to measure — and the more you’ll save on shipping as well.

If you’d like to find out more information about how to calculate and determine freight class, or if you have any additional questions that you’d like to go over with someone in a bit more detail, please feel free to contact Advanced Commercial Capital today.

How to Get Loads for My Trucking Business

Finding fresh loads is a constant hustle and sometimes a hassle for both truckers and trucking companies. But rest assured, with a shortage of truck drivers in the US; there are plenty of loads out there to source.

Whether you’re just starting to haul or have been moving goods for years, there are ways of finding new loads that are cost-effective and make doing business easier.

We will look at how to get loads for trucks and how to keep a steady flow of work coming your way.

Building a Strong Network of Clients and Partners

Networking is the backbone of established trucking companies. It can be time-consuming and hard to break through when branching out as an independent truck driver.

But building a solid network with clients and partners is beneficial and has a high payout over time.

Get involved with truck industry associations by going to events that focus on the types of freight that you are looking to haul. Some associations are exclusive and only allow entry if you work in their specific industry.

Keep in mind that trucking associates are not the place to find clients and are attended mainly by your potential competitors.

However, industry events are a great place to shake hands, exchange tips, and in some cases, build a prospect list.

Utilizing Online Load Boards and Freight Marketplaces

Load boards were once found on special television screens at most truck stops in the US. Now, you can easily find pick-up and drop-off locations, rates, and contact information all online.

You can find free online load boards, while others have paid options. Some load boards offer free trials and even have easy-to-access apps that send notifications about newly posted fresh loads.

Freight marketplaces and online load boards have the same basic function of connecting shippers, brokers, and carriers of shipments. But, a freight marketplace offers more services and is more comprehensive than a load board.

Online freight marketplaces use a load-matching algorithm to help shippers and brokers find suitable carriers for the job.

Developing Effective Marketing and Branding Strategies

You don’t have to be a million-dollar trucking company to develop an effective marking and branding strategy.

Organic social media content is an easy, cost-effective way to generate new business and build a reputation. When you post regularly, you’re putting your name out there and interacting with the shipping community. Just remain authentic to your brand and open to experimenting on different platforms.

Websites are great tools for spreading the word, but you want them to make a strong impression. One effective strategy is to work with an SEO professional to optimize keyword search and link building.

And we can’t forget truck wraps. A large vinyl decal can display your name, number, and an impressionable logo for thousands of people to see each day.

Maximizing Efficiency through Route Planning and Load Optimization

Load planning is about maximizing the capacity of you and your truck so that you can deliver multiple shipments in the fewest trips. But there are things you must consider your truck’s specifications (refrigerated), the center of gravity, where it’s going, and the product you’re hauling.

The main responsibility of a load planner is to maximize payload capacity. It also cuts unnecessary costs by considering loading sequence, destinations, overtime, and more.

Efficient route planning improves customer satisfaction because you can deliver goods on time, every time. It provides you with accurate time window management, real-time updates, effective other fulfillment, and services that focus on the customer’s preferences.

Using route planning and load optimization ensures better safety for drivers. It takes into account road conditions and road limits and helps you avoid high-risk areas. And when optimizing routes, you’re reducing fuel use and truck emissions, which lessens the environmental impact.

Maximizing efficiency through route planning and load optimization ensures that you’re complying with new trucking regulations. Manually planning and sequencing routes are inefficient, time-consuming, and leave too much room for errors.

Leveraging Technology and Automation for Streamlined Operations

In the trucking industry, technology is ever-evolving. Technological advancements and software solutions help streamline operations, reduce costs, and optimize overall performance.

Trucking companies and some owner-operators use fleet management software to track insights into vehicle locations, routes, fuel consumption, and maintenance schedules.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) have changed how large-fleet trucking businesses and owner-operators track and manage hours of service (HOS) to remain compliant.

Using a telematics system to track performance allows you to monitor speed, fuel consumption, braking patterns, and more to optimize fuel efficiency and address any maintenance issues faster.

Advanced analytics and predictive maintenance is another maintenance solution that proactively addresses maintenance issues and minimizes truck downtime and repair costs.

The evolution of automation using mobile applications has changed how the trucking industry does everything from GPS tracking to load management. Mobile apps streamline operations, reduce time-consuming tasks, and enhance overall productivity.

Conclusion

You have options when you’re in search of fresh loads to transport.

Building a solid network of peers allows you to establish yourself in the trucking business as an owner-operator. And developing effective marketing and branding keeps your name out there.

Technology and the internet now allow trucking companies and independent contractors to access load boards and freight marketplaces from anywhere, maximize efficiency, and automate to streamline services.

Route planning and optimization come with plenty of advantages, including cost reduction, enhanced efficiency, better customer service, and more.

But understanding how to get loads for trucks is not the only way to increase cash flow and stay profitable. Saving money, improving cash flow, and remaining consistently profitable continues after you have picked up and dropped off a load.

We at Advanced Commercial Capital understand the things that truckers need to feel confident and succeed. We provide custom-tailored, fair and honest invoice factoringthat protects you against unpaid invoices due to fraud, bankruptcy, or delinquency.

You can contact us at Advanced Commercial Capital at 855-465-4655 or by using our contact form.

How to Find Shippers as a Freight Broker?

Trucking Industry and Logistic Dock - two trailers are parked at the dock with two empty spots int between them reminding us to look for how to find shippers as a freight broker

Whether you’ve read guides about starting a freight brokerage and are ready to get started or have experience in the industry, finding shippers is one of the most important factors. Here are some tips for finding freight shippers as a freight broker that can help you achieve your goals and boost profit margins.

Talk to Existing Customers

Make note of all of your current client’s shipping locations, and ask them if there are other locations, subsidiaries, or partners that you can team up with along those corridors. Sure, it’s easy to do an online search, but companies change ownership hands, lose clients and find new ones that might be noted on the web.

Be certain to remind them (should they choose to recommend you) that you offer solid trucking rate confirmations for their protection and their company’s. This helps shippers know that they are getting paid in accordance with the terms of the agreement.

Know Your Competitors

The shipping industry is highly ambitious, so building credit as a freight broker is important to keep up with competitors and exceed them. Strong credit along with satisfied shippers and recipients can allow you to negotiate higher prices as a broker.

After all, carriers and shippers tend to lean towards reliable, low-risk freight brokers. To better understand what your competition is doing, research what the top freight brokers in those regions are doing. Find out what they are charging. Do they work with fixed percentages or have a sliding scale to accommodate changes?

These discoveries can help identify areas of weakness in a competitor’s business structure. You can then find ways to serve portions of certain sectors of the market that other freight brokers are neglecting.

Make Some Cold Calls

Finding shippers as a freight broker can be as easy as making a few cold calls that could potentially lead to fruitful partnerships. Before cold calling, prepare a proposition and sales pitch that explains why your freight brokering service will value prospective clients.

Know that the first ten seconds of engagement will be the most critical. After a quick introduction, get right to the point. Discuss the regional company’s target shipping zones. Showing familiarity with the area means local businesses are likely to work with you.

Should they be interested, talk about how you factor invoices with a factory company. Explain that this practice streamlines the process, giving shippers easy access to collecting payments. If you haven’t already, consider signing a notice of assignment to simplify paperwork while ensuring satisfied shippers.

Warm Calling Tactics

Making warm calls is a bit more involved than cold calling, but it tends to yield better results. Instead of walking in half-blind, know what the shipper’s primary service needs are and whether they’ve expressed any interest in freight shippers or are looking for new partnerships.

This ensures that you don’t waste their time or yours, should their needs be well covered currently (unless you want to try and undercut competitors). It also shows your genuine interest in receiving them as clients and meeting their needs.

Reach out to Former Customers

Former customer accounts that suddenly ghost you are termed ‘orphan accounts’. Making contact with these former clients can be a remarkable way to expand your customer list and make your trucking business more profitable.

However, if there was a reason for their dissatisfaction with you, be sure to let them know that you have taken steps to resolve issues from the past in those areas. Explain that you’d like to regain their business. You may even offer a discounted rate for a few months to those who sign back on as a sign of good faith.

Look for Referrals

Owners are far more receptive to referrals provided by fellow trusted associates, and they carry more power in lead generation than marketing or advertising content. After developing solid relationships with a shipper, don’t be shy about asking for referrals.

Ask them if they are aware of other businesses in need of shipping brokerage services. If you’re lacking referrals, boosting credit with nonrecourse factoring for freight brokers may be a good option to free up working capital. This could make or break a client’s decision.

Create a Loyalty Program

Loyalty programs serve two primary purposes: to incentivize current clients to keep them with your company and to generate freight industry buzz that can establish and grow your brand image. These typically provide discounts, rewards, and other incentives to attract and retain clients.

Sponsoring a loyalty program fosters shipper retention and can result in overall growth in the industry. These programs can have a lasting major impact on your business, as they can strongly influence consumers’ decisions.

Rewarding loyalty counts, and promoting such programs can be amazing marketing strategies that distinguish your freight brokerage from others in ways beyond more than just price. Loyalty programs can involve several aspects with a similar principle. Most of them offer clients discounted brokerage rates after a certain number of transactions.

However, loyalty programs can entail more than only rewarding repeat customers. They can also be tailored to fit the main niche of your brokerage and be a more interesting way to express your company’s vision. Loyalty programs can deepen relationships while showing appreciation to clients.

Transportation Factoring for Truckers With Advanced Commercial Capital

Learn more about how to find shippers as a freight broker with assistance from the experienced team at Advanced Commercial Capital. We are the top choice for factoring for truckers, because we specialize in this field, giving it our full attention. In fact, factoring and related processes are all we do!

Invoice factoring offers trucking companies a number of benefits that make these agreements worthwhile. We can help secure advance funds that factoring can provide to help your startup or keep your business growing.

These finances can assist with covering payroll, fuel, maintenance, insurance, and other trucking-related expenses. Additionally, our factoring company can help save you money. We charge no setup fees and don’t require contracts while offering time-saving tools for shippers.

Trucking Key Performance Indicators

A blonde, female truck driver stands in front of a row of semi trucks, she is wearing a blue flannel with a red puffer vest, with her arms crossed, she's smiling knowing that she has solid data and information to increase the kpi for trucking companies

A Key Performance Indicator (KPI) for trucking companies is a metric that tells the staff more about how their operations are helping or hurting their bottom line. Known as Key Performance Indicators due to their unmistakable importance to an organization’s longevity, truckers need to pay attention both to what their KPIs are and how they change over time. Advanced Commercial Capital provides factoring for companies that prefer to have timely cash flow, which is why we encourage everyone to get a handle on how they work.

Cost Per Mile

How many miles a truck drives is easy to calculate, though most truck companies will break it up into loaded and dead-head categories. The loaded miles are known as those where the truck is carrying cargo, while the dead-head category refers to the return journeys. Clearly, the cost of loaded miles can vary throughout the journey, depending on whether the truck has multiple stops. (The tail end of a journey may not carry the same costs as those at the beginning, but it will have an effect on your total profits.) Dividing miles may not always be perfectly precise, but there needs to be a solid estimation as a jumping-off point for future calculations.

Gross Profit Margins

A gross profit margin refers to how much the company makes after deducting straight costs, like wages, maintenance, and fuel. Net profit margins refer to how much the company makes after deducting all expenses, which can include anything from annual taxes to business insurance. Assessing a gross profit margin comes down to having all of the right numbers, so it’s important to think about how much is spent at any given time on standard expenses. For instance, if you service all trucks at one time during the year, you can average out the costs to get a better idea of your gross profits per month.

Driver Turnover Rate

Driver turnover can often cost companies more than they realize. It’s not merely the cost of posting a job ad or calculating the amount in wages it takes to sort through the applications, run the interview process, etc. When one driver leaves, all of their training goes with them. If they had any relationships built up along the way, those bridges may be burned too. Though an extremely important KPI for trucking companies, the full costs of turnover rates aren’t always apparent until after a company gets into financial trouble.

While you’re considering the turnover rates, you should also think about employee satisfaction as a whole. The more happy and engaged employees are, the more productive they’ll be. If you’ve noticed that workers are ‘checked out’ to a certain extent, it may be worth more to incentivize them than it is to ignore the issue.

Safety Performance

Trucks are on the road day after day, so their safety performance will have a lot to do with how much every trip will make. When it comes to safety, ‘almost’ certainly does count. The more near-misses on the road, the more likely it is that the driver will have a mishap in the near future. Truckers may feel like they’re in unwinnable situations when it comes to their livelihoods: they have to be well-rested enough to function, yet they won’t make any money if they’re not on the road.

Careless drivers may be a great way to bolster short-term revenue for all involved but, overall, it’s a losing strategy. Improving this metric may involve anything from holding a one-time defensive driving class to entirely revamping the schedules of drivers. It seems like too much effort is being put into this one KPI for trucking companies, just consider what a single lawsuit would cost.

Freight Claim

It’s impossible to prevent every potential snag on the road when it comes to cargo. Sometimes the truck tilts at just the right angle in a way that could never have been predicted. However a company settles damage or loss to goods incurred on its trucks, though freight claims can cost trucking companies quite a bit if they’re not careful. Drivers are not always diligent when it comes to loading and counting their freight, and brokers and shippers are well aware of this. Pre-trip inspections, supervised loading, official reports, photos, well-stacked freight, and better driving can all go a long way when it comes to improving this KPI for trucking companies.

Equipment Utilization

Equipment refers to your trucks, but it can also refer to any ancillary gear (e.g., dollies, straps, etc.) used to make the treks. Like many of the other KPIs listed here, there’s not always an easy way to determine the exact degree of wear and tear. For instance, if a driver is particularly hard on their brakes, this may not come to anyone’s attention until the brakes start to squeak (or, worse, when they start to lose their potency). The best way for truckers to measure this KPI is to look at their past records for spending trends. It’s likely that repair or replacement costs are worse for certain categories than others, which can give decision makers a better idea of whether the business can get more value from each asset.

KPIs and Cash Flow

Trucking companies don’t always boast the highest profit margins, but there is a good degree of wiggle room between the highs and lows. The best trucking companies are ones that operate with a keen eye on how their resources are being spent on any given day. They see not only how their short-term expenses are costing the company, but what can be done in the long-term to rein in their budget.

At Advanced Commercial Capital, our job is to get trucking companies the money they need to pay their staff, bring in new clients, and complete all maintenance on time. From fuel to insurance, we specialize in transportation factoring because we know how important it is for our clients to have someone to call. To learn more about our services, which do not include long-term contracts or setup fees, contact us today.

What is a Notice of Assignment in Trucking?

When you factor your invoices, you are essentially selling them to the factoring company. The factoring company then collects the payment from your customer on your behalf. In order for the factoring company to have the legal right to collect payment from your customer, you will need to sign a notice of assignment.

A notice of assignment in trucking is a document that assigns the right to collect payment on an invoice to the factoring company. The notice of assignment also assigns the right to receive any future payments on the invoice to the factoring company.

Why is a Notice of Assignment Important?

A notice of assignment in trucking is important because it protects the factor’s (or the organization to which the receivables have been assigned) interest in the receivables. The notice of assignment also allows the factor to perfect its security interest in the receivables, and provides notice to the debtor that the receivables have been assigned and that payments should be made to the factor.
Another reason why a notice of assignment is important is that it allows the factor to take action against the debtor in the event of a default on the receivables. Without a notice of assignment, the factor would not have any legal recourse against the debtor.

The notice of assignment also helps introduce the factoring company to the debtor. This is because the debtor will now be dealing with the factoring company instead of the business that assigned the receivables.

What is Covered in a Notice of Assignment?

When a trucking company factors their receivables, they are selling their invoices to a factoring company at a discount in order to receive immediate cash. The factoring company then becomes the receivable’s owner and has the right to collect payment from the debtor. In order to protect their investment, the factoring company will send a notice of assignment to the debtor, informing them that they now owe payment to the factoring company, not the trucking company.

The notice of assignment usually includes the following information:

-The name and contact information of the factoring company
-The name and contact information of the trucking company
-The invoice number or numbers that have been assigned to the factoring company
-The amount of the invoice or invoices that have been assigned
-The due date or dates of the invoice or invoices
-The name and contact information of the debtor
-A statement informing the debtor that they now owe payment to the factoring company instead of the trucking company
-The factoring company’s terms and conditions for payment as well as payment details

Sending a notice of assignment to the debtor protects the factoring company’s investment and ensures that they will be paid for the invoices that they have purchased. It also allows the trucking company to focus on its business instead of chasing down payments from debtors.

Notice of Assignment Examples

It is common for businesses in the trucking industry to use factoring as a way to finance their operations. In order to secure funding, companies will often sign over their accounts receivable to the factor. This means that the factor has the right to collect payments on behalf of the company. When this occurs, the factor will typically send a notice of assignment to the company’s customers.

The notice of assignment informs the customer that the invoice has been assigned to the factor and provides instructions on how to make payment. It is important to include all relevant information in the notice, such as the amount owed, the due date, and the mailing address or website where payment should be sent.

Below is an example of a notice of assignment that a company might send to its customers:

Date

Customer LLC

123 Main Street

Suite 200

Anytown, USA 99999

Dear Sir/Madam

RE NOTICE OF ASSIGNMENT.

Dear Customer,

We are writing to inform you that your invoice number 12345 has been assigned to ABC Factoring Company. Please remit payment for the invoice in full to ABC Factoring Company at the following address:

ABC Factoring Company

123 Main Street

Suite 200

Anytown, USA 99999

You can also make payments online at www.abcfactoring.com. Please be sure to reference your invoice number when making a payment. Kindly note you are liable for any misdirected payment, and as such we strongly advise you to take note of the change in payment details.

If you have any questions, please contact our office at 555-555-1234.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Your Company Name

An example of a notice of assignment sent by a factoring company to the debtors:

Date

Customer LLC

123 Main Street

Suite 200

Anytown, USA 99999

Dear Debtor,

RE NOTICE OF ASSIGNMENT.

According to the agreement between your company and our client – the Assignor – we hereby inform you that all the Assignor’s rights, title and interest in the account receivable described below were assigned and transferred to us, effective as of the date of this notice. All payments should now be made payable to and mailed to our address:

New Factor’s Name

123 Main Street

Suite 200

Anytown, USA 99999

The Assigned Account Receivable:

Description of Invoice: Invoice Number:

Amount: Due Date:

From now on, you should direct all your questions and requests concerning the above-mentioned invoice to us.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

The Factor’s Name.

Conclusion

As you can see, a notice of assignment is a simple but important document that companies in the trucking industry often use when factoring their invoices. The notice informs the debtor that the invoice has been assigned to the factor and provides instructions on how to make payment. By including all relevant information in the notice, such as the amount owed, rate confirmation, the due date, and the mailing address or website where payment should be sent, companies can help ensure that their customers make timely payments and avoid confusion. Advanced Commercial Capital, we are experts in factoring for the trucking industry and can help you get the funding you need to grow your business. Contact us today to learn more.

What is a Rate Confirmation

Introduction

If you’re in the freight business, then you’ve definitely heard of rate confirmations. But what are they, exactly? A rate confirmation is a document that spells out the agreed-upon shipping rates between two parties. It’s essentially a contract that ensures both sides are on the same page when it comes to pricing. And if you’re looking for a way to protect yourself from unexpected price hikes, then a rate confirmation is definitely something worth considering. In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about rate confirmations, including what they are, how they work, and why you might need one.

What is a Rate Confirmation?

Rate confirmation is defined as a formal document that is issued by a carrier to a shipper or their agent, which outlines the charges for shipping goods. The rate confirmation will detail the specific commodities being shipped, the origin and destination of the shipment, the date range of the shipment, and the applicable rates.

A rate confirmation is important because it provides clarity on the charges that will be incurred for a shipment. This document can help to avoid misunderstandings and disputes between the parties involved in the shipment. In some cases, a rate confirmation may also be used as evidence in a legal dispute.

What is a Freight Contract?

A freight contract is an agreement between a shipper and a carrier that outlines the terms and conditions of transportation services. The contract will spell out the responsibilities of each party, the type of service to be provided, the shipping rate, and any other relevant details. A freight contract can be used for both international and domestic shipments.

Why Use a Freight Contract?

A freight contract provides clarity and peace of mind for both the shipper and the carrier. By having all of the details laid out in a written agreement, both parties know what to expect and can avoid any misunderstandings. A freight contract can also help to protect both parties in the event of a dispute.

Why is Rate Confirmation Important?

A rate confirmation is a key component in any freight contract. It is a document that includes all the agreed-upon rates for shipping services, and is signed by both the shipper and carrier. The purpose of the rate confirmation is to provide a clear understanding of the terms of the contract, and act as a guard against future misunderstandings.

Without a rate confirmation, the carrier could change the rates at any time, which would put the shipper at a disadvantage. The rate confirmation protects the shipper by ensuring that the agreed-upon rates are set in stone.

A rate confirmation is also important because it can be used as evidence in the event of a dispute. If there is ever a disagreement about rates, the rate confirmation can be used to prove what was agreed upon.

Another importance of a rate confirmation is that it can help to build trust between the shipper and carrier. By having a signed document that outlines the rates, it shows that both parties are committed to the contract and are serious about doing business together.

What Does Rate Confirmation Entail?

In its most basic form, a rate confirmation is simply a document that confirms the price of shipping services contracted between a shipper and carrier. This type of confirmation is important to both the driver and the shipper for a number of reasons. The rate confirmation contains the following details:

-The name of the shipper
-The name of the carrier
-The origin and destination of the shipment
-The type of commodity being shipped
-The shipping date
-The total cost of the shipment.
-Importance of Rate Confirmation To a Driver

The driver is the one who will be performing the shipping services, and as such, it’s crucial for them to have a confirmation of the price they will be paid for those services. This confirmation allows the driver to know the amount of payment due, and gives them a point of reference if there are any discrepancies. The following are the importance of rate confirmation to the driver.

Ensures that the driver will be paid the agreed-upon amount: Perhaps the most important reason for a driver to have a rate confirmation is that it ensures they will be paid the amount they were originally quoted. If there are any discrepancies between the amount on the rate confirmation and the amount the driver is actually paid, they can refer back to the document to make sure they receive the full amount they are entitled to.

Gives the driver a point of reference: Another important reason for a driver to have a rate confirmation is that it gives them a point of reference. If there are any questions or discrepancies regarding the job, the driver can refer back to the rate confirmation to help resolve any issues.

Importance of Rate Confirmation To a Shipper

The shipper is the one who is contracting the shipping services, and as such, it is important for them to have a confirmation of the price they will be paying for those services. This confirmation allows the shipper to know exactly how much they will be paying for the job, and gives them a point of reference if there are any discrepancies. The following are the importance of rate confirmation to the shipper.

Ensures that the shipper will pay the agreed-upon amount: Perhaps the most important reason for a shipper to have a rate confirmation is that it ensures they will pay the amount they originally quoted. If there are any discrepancies between the amount on the rate confirmation and the amount the shipper is actually charged, they can refer back to the document to make sure they are not overcharged.

Conclusion

We hope this article has helped you learn more about rate confirmation and the important role it plays in freight contracts. At its core, rate confirmation is a way to protect both the driver and owner by ensuring that the correct price has been agreed upon for the delivery of goods. At Advanced Commercial Capital, we are experts in factoring and can provide your business with the cash flow it needs to succeed. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your business grow.

How to Build Credit as a Freight Broker

Introduction

As a freight broker, you understand the importance of having a good credit score. Your credit score represents your financial health and is used by potential lenders to determine your creditworthiness. A good credit score can help you get approved for loans and lines of credit, while a poor credit score can make it difficult to get financing. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips for how to build credit as a freight broker. We’ll also discuss some of the things you should avoid doing if you want to maintain a good credit score.

Why Do You Need Good Credit as a Freight Broker?

Your credit score is a key factor that lenders consider when you apply for financing. A high credit score indicates to lenders that you’re a low-risk borrower, which makes you more likely to get approved for a loan or line of credit. Conversely, a low credit score can make it more difficult to get approved for financing.

There are a few reasons why having good credit is especially important for freight brokers. First, as a freight broker, you may need to secure financing to grow your business. Whether you’re looking for a loan to purchase new equipment or a line of credit to cover unexpected costs, good credit will give you more options and better terms.

Second, your credit score can impact the rates you’re able to get from factoring companies. When you factor invoices, you sell them to a factoring company at a discount in exchange for immediate cash. The factoring company then collects payment from your customer. Many factoring companies use your credit score to determine the rates they offer, so a high credit score can mean lower rates and more cash in your pocket.

Finally, good credit can help you win business from new customers. Many shippers now use credit scores to screen freight brokers before awarding them business. So, if you have a strong credit score, you may be more likely to win new customers and grow your business.

How to Build Credit as a Freight Broker?

There are a few things you can do to build your credit as a freight broker.
First, make sure you pay your invoices on time. Prompt payment is one of the most important factors in maintaining a good credit score.

Second, use a business credit card for your business expenses. This will help you build a separate credit history for your business, which can be helpful if you ever need to apply for business financing.

Third, consider using a personal guarantee when you apply for financing. A personal guarantee is an agreement that makes you personally responsible for repaying a loan if your business is unable to. Many lenders are willing to extend financing to freight brokers with less-than-perfect credit if they have a personal guarantee in place.

Fourth, try to keep your credit utilization low. Credit utilization is the percentage of your available credit that you’re using. For example, if you have a credit card with a $10,000 limit and you’re using $5,000 of that credit, your credit utilization is 50%.

Ideally, you should keep your credit utilization below 30%. This shows lenders that you’re using a small portion of your available credit, which indicates that you’re a responsible borrower.

Fifth, don’t open new lines of credit unnecessarily. Every time you apply for a new loan or credit card, your credit score takes a small hit. So, if you don’t need a new line of credit, it’s best to avoid applying for one.

Sixth, check your credit report regularly to make sure there are no errors. If you find an error, dispute it with the credit reporting agency.

Finally, remember that building good credit takes time. If you’re just starting out, don’t be discouraged if your credit score isn’t where you want it to be. Just focus on making timely payments and keeping your credit utilization low, and your score will gradually
By following these tips, you can start to build your credit and create a strong foundation for your freight brokerage business.

What is Good Credit for a Freight Broker?

The quantity of credit that is deemed “good” will differ based on the individual freight broker’s needs and situation, hence there is no universally applicable response to this question. However, in general, a good credit score for a freight broker is one that will allow them to obtain the financing they need to grow their business.

One of the best ways for a freight broker to build credit is by establishing a strong relationship with a lender. This can be done by making timely payments on any loans or lines of credit that are extended to the broker. Additionally, the freight broker can proactively manage their credit by regularly checking their credit report and score, and taking steps to improve their creditworthiness.

Ultimately, the goal is to build a strong credit history that will give lenders confidence in the broker’s ability to repay their debts. By doing so, the freight broker can access the financing they need to expand their business and better serve their clients.

Ways to Build Credit as a Freight Broker

There are many things a freight broker can do to build credit. Some methods will take longer than others, but all of them are worth pursuing if you want to maintain a good credit score.

One way to build credit is by paying your bills on time. This includes not only your electric and gas bills, but also your phone bill, credit card payments, and any other type of recurring bill you have. You should also try to pay off any outstanding debt you may have as soon as possible.

Another way to build credit is by maintaining a good credit history. This means having a history of making on-time payments and keeping your balances low. If you have never had a credit card or loan before, you can start building your history by getting a secured credit card. This type of credit card requires you to put down a deposit, which is usually equal to your credit limit.

You can also build credit by becoming an authorized user on someone else’s credit card. This means that you are not responsible for making the payments, but the activity will show up on your credit report. This is a good option if you have a family member or friend with good credit who is willing to add you to their account.

Finally, you can also build credit by taking out a small loan and making all of your payments on time. This will show lenders that you can borrow money and make timely payments, which will help to improve your credit score.

Conclusion

So, as a freight broker, it’s important to start building your credit history as early as possible.

There are lots of ways to do this, and we’ve outlined some of the best ones in this blog post. Keep in mind that good credit is key to success in this industry – so be sure to work on yours! If you have any questions about invoice factoring or anything else related to freight brokering, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Advanced Commercial Capital we love helping people achieve their business goals and would be happy to chat with you about what steps you need to take next.

Nonrecourse Factoring for Freight Brokers

nonrecourse freight factoring

In the trucking business, there are many expenses that come with keeping your company up and running. From the cost of fuel to the price of trucks themselves, it can be difficult to keep cash flow positive. This is where nonrecourse freight factoring can help.
Freight factoring is a process where a company sells its accounts receivable (invoices) to a private entity, referred to as a “factor,” to get cash immediately. The invoices are then legally transferred to the “factor” who then is in charge of collecting money from clients.
Nonrecourse freight factoring is a type of factoring that does not require the company to repay the factor if the customer does not pay the invoice. This factoring can be a massive relief for trucking companies waiting for payments from their customers.
In this article, we will provide an overview of nonrecourse freight factoring and how it can benefit trucking businesses. So, if you are looking for a way to improve your cash flow, read on!

What is Nonrecourse Freight Factoring?

Nonrecourse factoring is a type of factoring where the factor assumes all the credit risk associated with the invoices. If the customer does not pay, the factor takes on that risk and cannot go after the trucking company for payment. This factoring can be a good option for trucking companies that may not have the best credit or for companies looking to get quick cash flow.

How Does Nonrecourse Freight Factoring Work?

Nonrecourse freight factoring is very similar to traditional factoring. The trucking company will invoice the factor for the amount of the load, and the factor will then advance a percentage of that invoice (usually 80-90%). Once the load is delivered, the factor will then collect from the customer. If the customer does not pay, the factor assumes all credit risk.

Who is a Good Candidate for Nonrecourse Freight Factoring?

Nonrecourse factoring can be a good option for trucking companies that may not have the best credit or for companies looking to get quick cash flow. It can also be a good option for companies who want to free up some of their working capital.

Is Nonrecourse Freight Factoring Right for Your Business?

If you are looking for a way to get quick cash flow, nonrecourse freight factoring may be right for you. However, it is essential to weigh all of your options and ensure that this is the right choice for your business. Contact Advanced Commercial Capital today to learn more about nonrecourse freight factoring and how it can benefit your trucking company.

Advanced Commercial Capital is a leading provider of nonrecourse factoring. We work with trucking companies of all sizes to help them get the cash flow to grow their business.

Nonrecourse Factoring for Freight Brokers

In the freight brokerage industry, nonrecourse factoring is a popular way to finance operations. This type of factoring allows freight brokers to sell invoices to a factoring company at a discount. The factor then becomes responsible for collecting the invoice amount from the customer. If the customer does not pay, the factor assumes the risk of nonpayment. This arrangement can be an excellent way for freight brokers to get cash quickly to finance their business operations.

There are several factors to consider when choosing a nonrecourse factoring company. First, it is crucial to ensure that the company has experience working with freight brokers. The factor should also have a good reputation and be able to provide a high level of customer service. It is also crucial to ensure that the factor has a solid financial position and can meet your financing needs.

When choosing a nonrecourse factoring company, it is essential to compare the terms and fees offered by different companies. The factor should be able to offer competitive rates and flexible financing options. It is also vital to make sure that the factor has a good reputation and can provide a high level of customer service.

Nonrecourse factoring can be an excellent way for freight brokers to get cash quickly to finance their business operations. By choosing the right factor, freight brokers can get the financing to grow their business.
Please visit our website for more information on nonrecourse factoring for freight brokers.

Do Freight Brokers Use Factoring Companies?

And the answer is yes; freight brokers sometimes use freight factoring companies to help them get cash quickly to pay for things like fuel, tolls, and drivers.

Freight factoring is a great option for freight brokers because it is a nonrecourse transaction. This means that the factor cannot come after the freight broker if the customer does not pay their invoice. This can be helpful for freight brokers who have bad debt or who are struggling to get paid on time.

Freight brokers often use nonrecourse factoring companies to finance their business. This type of factoring allows freight brokers to sell invoices to a factor at a discount. The factor then becomes responsible for collecting the invoice amount from the customer. If the customer does not pay, the factor assumes the risk of nonpayment. By choosing a nonrecourse factoring company, freight brokers can protect their business from nonpayment.

There are several reasons why freight brokers might choose to use a nonrecourse factoring company. One reason is that nonrecourse factoring can help a freight broker expand their business. When a factor assumes the risk of nonpayment, it also bears the risk of extending credit to the freight broker. This can help a freight broker grow their business by giving them access to more capital.

Another reason that freight brokers might use nonrecourse factoring is to improve their cash flow. By selling invoices to a factor, a freight broker can receive immediate payment for those invoices. This can help the freight broker cover their expenses until the customer pays the invoice.

When deciding if freight factoring is the right option for your business, weighing the costs and benefits is important. Factors to consider include the cost of the factor’s services, how quickly you need the cash, and how confident you are that you will be able to collect the payments from your customers.

If you are thinking about using a freight factoring company, it is important to research and compare different companies before deciding. There are several factors to consider, such as the cost of services, the amount of time it takes for funds to be available, terms and conditions of different factoring companies, and the company’s credit history. You also want to make sure that the company you choose has a good reputation in the industry.

Freight factoring can be a great option for freight brokers, but it is important to weigh the costs and benefits before deciding if it is right for your business. By choosing the right nonrecourse factor, freight brokers can improve their business and cash flow.
For more information on nonrecourse freight factoring, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Advanced Commercial Capital today. We would be happy to answer any of your questions and help you decide if this is the right option for your business.

At Advanced Commercial Capital, we specialize in nonrecourse factoring for trucking business owners and freight brokers. We have years of experience working with the trucking industry and can provide you with the financing you need to grow your business. For more information, please visit our website or call us at (855) 465-4655.

What are Some Common Freight Factoring Rates?

truck factoring rates

Over the past several years, invoice factoring has become a popular cash flow solution, particularly for trucking companies. Invoice factoring allows customers, such as trucking companies, to receive payouts on their accounts receivables quicker than would traditionally be available. While the concept and process of invoice factoring might be easy to understand, figuring out exactly how much invoice factoring will cost is not as straightforward.
The cost of truck/invoice factoring will vary depending on the company that you choose. Typically, truck factoring rates fall between 1% and 5% of the invoice amount. However, there are a variety of additional factors that may influence your truck factoring rates, such as the creditworthiness of your customers, the credit history of your business, and the volume of invoices you’ll submit.

Total Cost of a Factoring Agreement

The total cost of a factoring agreement includes both the factoring rate and additional fees. To fully understand the total cost of a factoring agreement you need to understand how the factoring rate and additional fees are calculated.

Factoring Rate

The truck factoring rate is the percentage of the invoice that the factoring company keeps, in exchange for advancing the funds owed under the invoice to the trucking company. All factoring companies use the same four factors to determine the factoring rate they charge:
1. risk
2. volume
3. time
4. advance rate

Risk and volume are the two factors most heavily considered in determining a factoring rate. When assessing these factors, the factoring company takes several considerations into account. For example, the factoring company will consider the industry and type of business involved in the invoice. This is because some industries and businesses are inherently riskier, which has an impact on the likelihood of the invoice being paid.

The creditworthiness of the trucking company’s customers will also have an impact. Because invoice factoring shifts the creditor of an invoice from the trucking company to the factoring company, the factoring companies are more concerned about your clients’ credit history than yours. Thus, the more creditworthy your clients are the more likely you are to receive a lower factoring rate.

Additionally, volume impacts your factoring rate because the more invoices you factor with a company the more likely they are to give you a preferential factoring rate to help you maintain your business.

Time impacts your factoring rate because the types of factoring rates are based on time frames. For example, factoring agreements that have a flat rate charge a flat percentage for every invoice. You will pay that flat-rate upfront and then you don’t pay any additional amount for as long as the invoice stays open.

Let’s contrast flat rates to variable rates. In a factoring agreement that features a variable rate, the factoring company will typically take a percentage of the invoice for as long as it goes unpaid. Under variable factoring rates, the percentage of the invoice the factoring company takes will generally increase with set timeframes (for example, the factoring rate may be 2% if the invoice is paid within 1-30 days but 4% if paid within 31-45 days). Other variable rates may increase each day the invoice goes unpaid. The advantage to variable rates is that you may end up paying less if your client promptly pays the invoice.

The final factor which is considered when calculating a factoring rate is the advance rate. This is the percentage of the invoice which you are seeking to factor in. Typically, advance rates range from 75% to 100% of the invoice. The greater percentage of the invoice you wish to factor, the greater your factoring rate is likely to be.

Factoring Fees

In addition to the factoring rate charge, there are likely to be additional fees added to any factoring agreement which impact the total amount a factoring agreement costs. Each factoring company and factoring agreement is different; therefore, it is important that you fully read the factoring agreement and discuss the agreement with the factoring company to fully understand any additional fees before entering into an agreement.

Some types of fees that are typically charged include a documentation fee. This is a one-time fee charged upfront to cover due diligence and legal processing. Typically, there are also utilized fees that cover tasks such as invoice processing and the transfer of money. Invoice factoring agreements are either recourse or nonrecourse.

In nonrecourse agreements, you are not liable for any unpaid invoices. However, nonrecourse agreements will generally include a fee to cover credit protection to provide full liability protection against unpaid invoices. Additional fees typically charged include carrier payments, buyout fees, and early termination fees.

It is important for you to fully understand all associated rates and fees. If you don’t understand how factoring rates are calculated or what fees are associated with a factoring agreement you run the risk of accidentally paying more than expected for a truck factoring agreement. It is essential that you fully read each factoring agreement and discuss the agreement with the factoring company before signing any documents.

It is okay to ask for clarity on any rates or fees you do not fully understand. The better you understand a factoring agreement the more prepared you will be and the more you will be able to fully take advantage of the factoring agreement.

Invoice factoring offers businesses, especially trucking companies, many benefits that make the agreements worth it. The advance of funds that factoring provides can help a new business get started or an already established business to grow. Additionally, many factoring companies offer benefits to help trucking companies save money.

For example, factoring companies often offer gas card programs that provide discounts at gas stations throughout the country. These are only a few examples of the benefits that make truck factoring highly beneficial for companies.

Ask Advanced Commercial Capital About Truck Factoring Rates Today!

Advanced Commercial Capital can help your trucking company succeed in ways you never thought were possible.

Talk with our team to learn more about how truck factoring rates work by giving us a call at 855.465.4655 or reaching out via our online contact form.
We look forward to offering you the easiest and smartest way to factor your freight bills and get the cash you need, without any surprises.