Broker not paying
Freight broker not paying? Your options as a carrier.
When a broker goes silent on a load you delivered, speed matters. Brokers that stop paying one carrier are often behind with others, and they all draw on the same limited bond.
First 48 hours
- Check the broker's authority and financial-security status on FMCSA's public systems (SAFER and Licensing & Insurance) using its MC number, and note the surety or trust provider
- Gather the rate confirmation, BOL, signed POD and invoice
- Send a written demand to the broker with documents attached and a clear deadline
If the broker still doesn't pay
- Bond or trust claim: file a claim with the broker's surety or trust provider. See BMC-84 bond claims.
- Shipper or consignee: in some situations the carrier can pursue the shipper or consignee, but the shipper may argue it already paid the broker. See who owes the freight.
- Collection agency or attorney: a freight-experienced collector can pursue the broker, its principals where there's a legal basis, and the other parties. Suit may be needed within the applicable time limit.
Warning signs to watch for
Repeated short-pays, shifting excuses, requests to re-invoice, changes in factoring or payee details, and pending authority revocation can all signal trouble. Act on them early and avoid hauling more loads on credit for a broker that's already behind.
Not legal advice. This page is general information about U.S. freight-payment rules, not legal advice. Federal and state transportation law is technical, depends on the facts and changes over time. FMCSA rules on broker financial security were also being updated as of this writing. CollectionPlacement is a referral service, not a law firm or collection agency. Consult a transportation attorney about your situation.
More freight collection guides
Frequently asked questions
What can I do if a freight broker won't pay me?
Common steps are a documented demand, a claim against the broker's BMC-84 bond or trust, placement with a freight-experienced collection agency or attorney, and, in some cases, pursuing the shipper or consignee.
Can I go after the shipper if the broker didn't pay?
Sometimes. Whether a shipper is liable depends on the bill of lading terms, contracts, whether the shipper already paid the broker and how courts in the relevant jurisdiction treat these disputes.
How do I find a broker's bond company?
FMCSA's public Licensing & Insurance records list a broker's financial-security filings, including the surety or trust provider, by MC number.
Free, no obligation
Get matched with a collection partner
Tell us about your receivables. We'll review and introduce you to vetted agencies or collection attorneys suited to your debt type, size and state.