NEWBIE TO INDUSTRY
I am a green Freight Agent thinking about specializing in feed loads, etc. However, I know I have a loooong ways to go to learn equipment used, never mind how to figure out weights, and measurements, and such to better communicate with as well as fairly negotiate and meet the needs of those shippers and carriers in this part of industry. I was wondering if anyone knew of resources online that I could turn to for best advisement in this part of freight classification. I KNOW there is a lot to this, but I have loads of time. I am contracted recently with a small LLC brokerage, and the owner said she got her start in logging. She seemed to be very supportive of me to take my time to learn what I would like to specialize in, sharing with me that her first break took a very long time and I think she said it was a lumber shipper, struck it lucky to get regular loads with them and so she has ever since specialized with lumber loads. She seems very fair and a delight to work with. I understand about building good rep with shippers and carriers, and know it is crucial in this biz, and that no one appreciates back soliciting, and what NOT to do in this biz. Personally I am excited to be subscribed to bulkloads now and get to know many of you, learning from you and I will be noting those of you especially who know and love your jobs despite the times it can take its toll. I may be new, but I did get the basics of being an agent in general sort of after attending a week long course that cost me $2500! It was nearly a 2 hour commute everyday to attend this course not to mention paying $600- that week for a nanny to watch my two wee ones. The so called certificate course taught me little in the way of what it had cost me as far as I am concerned. It really is a hands on learning process, making loads of calls everyday and asking questions, researching the market, and one MUST get to know the market well from what I understand the most about moving freight in general, and well, I just thought I would introduce myself putting no airs on that I am competent yet in this industry. However, I do hope many of you will be willing to work with me in the near future or eventually. So, with that said, look for my posted loads down the road, and I will be following many of yours as well, calling you too. Thanks Everyone for reading! Btw, too bad there was not a search box for forum threads set up on here..