Shipping & Freight News

In the modern freight landscape, trust and communication are the foundation of successful partnerships between brokers, carriers, and shippers. As the market continues to face increasing pressure, there’s a growing emphasis on accountability and openness across all levels of the supply chain.

One of the most pressing issues in freight today is the conflict that can arise when resolving disputes involving cargo damage, claims, or unexpected charges. There are countless stories of carriers being hit with surprise deductions or damage claims, often without clear evidence or proper documentation. In some cases, brokers act as judge and jury, passing costs onto carriers for incidents that may not even be their responsibility. These actions erode trust and make it harder for ethical brokers to distinguish themselves.

A potential solution that could help to alleviate this problem is the adoption of independent third-party broker performance audits. By voluntarily submitting to transparency reviews, ethical brokerages can demonstrate their commitment to fair dealings. Not only could this instill greater confidence among carriers, but it would also create a competitive edge for brokers who go the extra mile to build solid, transparent relationships.

Another major concern in the industry is the imbalance in responsibility. If a carrier accidentally damages a shipper’s property, many brokers immediately bill the carrier, regardless of the contractual arrangements or insurance implications. On the other hand, when a shipper damages a carrier’s trailer or equipment, carriers are often left alone to pursue reimbursement. The inconsistency is frustrating and financially damaging to the small businesses that make up much of the carrier community.

Do brokers have a responsibility to serve as intermediaries in disputes between shippers and carriers? Join the conversation in the latest episode of the Stay In Your Lane Podcast.

“The vast majority of brokers aren’t going to make the carrier whole. They’re going to say, ‘That’s on you, you’ve got to contact your insurance company,’” says OOIDA Vice President Lewie Pugh.

To address this, brokers can act as intermediaries by advocating fairly for all sides. That includes pushing shippers for incident reports, photo documentation, and insurance information when they are at fault. Supporting carriers in getting fairly compensated for damages beyond their control can also strengthen long-term business relationships and ensure that carriers can keep running.

Too much of today’s freight business has become transactional, driven by load boards and fleeting one-off deals. While technology can be a great enabler, it shouldn’t replace foundational business values like trust, communication, and integrity. When carriers and brokers work together consistently, they build the kind of mutual understanding and accountability that can’t be found in a random load post.

“Broker XYZ is probably taking half the revenue or more, so it’s very, very cheap freight when it gets to the trucker,” Pugh says of the problems created by unethical brokers. “They’re only getting bottom feeders and the people who don’t run a good trucking business and don’t care about your freight

The bottom line? Ethical brokerage practices aren’t just good for business—they’re essential for the industry’s future. Brokers must resist the urge to chase volume at the expense of values. In a challenging freight market where survival often takes precedence, the temptation to cut corners is real. But the brokers who lead with character and transparency will be the ones still standing when the market recovers.

At Triple T Transport, we focus on delivering consistent, reliable service rooted in strong relationships. Our goal is to foster long-term partnerships built on mutual respect and clear communication. We understand that accountability is earned through action, not just policy, and we work hard to ensure our carrier and shipper partners know they can count on us.