freight broker commission structures

Freight Broker Commission Structures and Earnings

Understand freight broker commission structures and discover how SPI helps independent brokers earn more

Boost Your Earnings


Understanding Freight Broker Commission Structures

As a freight broker, you earn commissions based on your ability to successfully connect shippers with carriers and manage logistics operations. However, commission structures vary, impacting overall earnings. SPI offers a competitive, transparent commission model designed to maximize broker income while providing essential support.

For a deeper dive into how freight brokers get paid, check out our comprehensive blog post.

Why Freight Broker Commission Structures Matter

frustrated freight broker dealing with paperwork

The Challenges Freight Brokers Face:

  • Unclear Commission Splits: Many brokers struggle with vague or unbalanced commission structures that reduce their earnings potential.
  • High Operational Costs: Independent brokers must cover technology, compliance, and back-office expenses, which can cut into profits.
  • Limited Growth Opportunities: Without the right tools and support, brokers may find it difficult to scale their operations and increase revenue.

The Impact of a Competitive Commission Structure:

  • Higher earning potential with fair and transparent commission splits
  • Lower overhead when working with a brokerage that provides back-office and technology support
  • More room for growth, allowing brokers to scale without administrative burden

How Freight Brokers Get Paid: Key Commission Models

Independent freight broker

Different commission structures impact freight broker income, profitability, and growth.


1. Flat Commission Splits: A fixed percentage of the gross margin is split between the broker and the brokerage. This model provides predictability but may limit growth potential if commission rates are low.

2. Tiered Commission Structures: Earnings increase based on performance metrics, such as monthly revenue or number of loads moved. Brokers earn higher commission percentages as they hit revenue targets.

3. 100% Commission with Fees: Some independent brokers operate on a 100% commission model, keeping all profits but paying fees for TMS access, load boards, and back-office support.

4. Base Salary + Commission: A less common model where freight brokers earn a base salary plus a lower commission rate. Typically used for in-house brokers at large logistics firms.

Learn more in our detailed breakdown.

SPI’s Competitive Commission Model

SPI offers a high-earning commission structure designed to help independent freight brokers maximize their profits while minimizing administrative burden.

What Sets SPI’s Commission Model Apart?

  • High Commission Splits: SPI offers a competitive percentage of gross margin.
  • No Hidden Fees: Brokers retain more of their earnings with transparent agreements.
  • Back-Office & Tech Support: Reduce expenses with free TMS access, load boards, and carrier payment management. Learn more about our back-office support.
  • Growth-Focused Environment: SPI provides the resources and network to help brokers scale their business.
freight broker commission structures

Who Benefits from SPI’s Commission Model?

Freight Broker Administrative Services

Independent Freight Brokers

Maximize income without worrying about operational overhead.

Experienced Brokers Wanting More Control

Keep more of what you earn while gaining the support of an established brokerage.

Growing Brokers

Growing Brokers

Take advantage of scalable commission tiers to increase earnings over time.

How SPI Helps Freight Brokers Earn More

Competitive Commission Agreement

Brokers start with a clear and competitive commission structure that allows for maximum earnings without unnecessary deductions.


Full-Service Back-Office Support

SPI handles carrier payments, invoicing, compliance, and administrative tasks, so brokers can focus on revenue-generating activities. Learn more about how we support freight brokers.


Load Board & TMS Access

Brokers receive free access to industry-leading load boards, a robust Freight Broker TMS, and customer management tools, reducing operational costs.


Ongoing Growth & Earnings Optimization

With scalable commission tiers and SPI’s extensive broker network, independent brokers have unlimited income potential.

freight broker back office automation at SPI

Why Choose SPI Freight Broker Commission Structures?

SPI has provided freight brokerage back-office support for over 40 years

Proven Industry Expertise

Decades of experience supporting independent freight brokers.

Technology & Back-Office Support

Technology & Back-Office Support

Maximize earnings without increasing overhead.

High-Paying Commissions

Transparent, High-Paying Commissions

No hidden fees, just straightforward earnings.

Get Started with SPI

Ready to take control of your earnings? SPI’s competitive commission structure allows freight brokers to earn more while benefiting from full operational support.

Fill out the form below to learn more and start maximizing your commissions today.

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