Own auto transport brokerage

Individuals moving or buying cars, dealers, auction buyers, rental and leasing companies and classic car owners.

The difference between what the customer pays and what you pay the carrier on each shipment. Repeat dealer and business accounts can make income steadier.

• Sales and negotiating rates
• Vetting and managing carriers
• Handling stressed customers and delays
• Comfort with load board and quoting software

• Check current FMCSA requirements for broker authority (MC number), the BMC-84 or BMC-85 financial security and process agent filing
• Check whether your state requires its own registration or business license
• General liability and contingent cargo insurance are worth checking with an insurer
• Shipping vehicles abroad can involve ocean freight and customs rules that need a separate license or a forwarding partner, so check before offering it
• Cash flow can be tight if customers pay late or carriers want fast payment
• Damage claims and complaints from customers can be common, so keep clear written terms

Startup costs are typically estimated around $2,500 to $10,000, depending on registration and filings, insurance, quoting software, and marketing. Check current FMCSA requirements and insurer quotes early, since they shape your real total.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many jobs you book, your rates, and whether you build regular dealer or auction lanes. Late-paying customers can make cash flow tight.

Check current FMCSA requirements for broker authority (MC number), the BMC-84 or BMC-85 financial security, and process agent filing. Also check any state registration or business license, and insurance. Shipping vehicles abroad may need ocean freight and customs licensing or a forwarding partner.