Carriers Working With Freight Brokers. Here’s a clear, practical overview of carriers that work with freight brokers — who they are, why they work with brokers, and how those relationships typically function in the transportation industry.
Who Are the Carriers That Work with Freight Brokers?
Carriers are transportation companies that move freight. Those that commonly work with freight brokers include:
Asset-Based Carriers
These carriers own or lease the trucks, vans, flatbeds, etc.
- Trucking companies of all sizes (from owner-operators to fleets)
- LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) carriers
- Specialized freight carriers (reefer, flatbed, heavy haul)
Why they work with brokers: Brokers help them keep trucks loaded, reduce empty miles, find consistent freight, and handle administrative load matching.
Owner-Operators
Independent drivers or truckers running their own authority.
- Typically operate 1–3 trucks
- Flexible on freight types (depending on equipment)
Why they work with brokers: Predictable freight, less time spent on finding loads, and smoother payment processing.
Non-Asset Carriers / Dispatch Services
These companies don’t own trucks themselves but contract with owner-operators and teams.
- They effectively act like mini-carriers
- Often partner with brokers to secure freight
Why they work with brokers: To fill their contracted drivers with freight efficiently. Carriers Working With Freight Brokers



