Question 1

How do I become a freight agent?

Accepted Answer

Most independent freight agents start with sales or operations experience at a brokerage or carrier, then partner with an established freight brokerage that provides the license, bond, technology, and back-office support. With Varstar Alliance, you bring your book of business and industry relationships — we provide the TMS, carrier network, billing, and ops support so you can start moving freight under our authority on day one.

Question 2

What is a 1099 freight agent?

Accepted Answer

A 1099 freight agent is an independent contractor who books and manages freight under a host brokerage's authority but operates their own business. You're paid on a commission split rather than a salary, set your own schedule, and receive a 1099 tax form at year-end instead of a W-2. You own your customer relationships and book of business.

Question 3

How does freight agent commission work?

Accepted Answer

Freight agents earn a percentage of the gross margin (revenue minus carrier cost) on every load they book. Splits typically range from 50% to 70% depending on volume, experience, and what the host brokerage covers. Varstar offers competitive performance-based splits with no caps — the more margin you produce, the more you earn.

Question 4

What's the difference between a freight broker and a freight agent?

Accepted Answer

A freight broker holds an FMCSA brokerage authority (MC number), carries a $75,000 surety bond, and takes on the legal and financial liability of every shipment. A freight agent operates under a broker's authority — no license, bond, or back-office infrastructure required — and focuses purely on sales and customer service while the host brokerage handles compliance, collections, and carrier compliance documentation.

Question 5

Do I keep my book of business as a Varstar agent?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your customers are yours. Varstar Alliance does not poach accounts or assign your clients to other agents. The relationships you've built stay with you for as long as you're part of the program.

Your clients. Your book. Better support behind you.

Everything you need. None of the headaches.

Keep your book of business.

Competitive splits.

Technology that works for you.

Back-office support.

Carrier network access.

Growth without overhead.

What We Provide

The right fit.

Freight agent program questions, answered.

Your freight deserves better
than 'good enough.'