If you’re an experienced freight agent, you know that the right freight agent program can make or break your success. Whether you’re frustrated with your current setup, seeking better support, or looking for higher commission splits, making a switch can be a game-changer. But with so many options available, how do you determine the best fit?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about switching freight agent programs, evaluating commission structures, asking the right legal questions, and ensuring you receive the software and support needed to thrive. We’ll also highlight SPI Logistics, one of the leading freight agent programs and a longtime partner of EiL, and how it stacks up against competitors.
How to Switch Freight Agent Programs
1. Evaluate Your Current Situation
Before making a move, assess your current situation:
- Are you satisfied with your commission split?
- Do you feel supported with technology, credit, and back-office operations?
- Are there non-compete clauses limiting your ability to move customers?
- Does your current agency allow growth, or are you competing with too many agents?
Freight agent Brad Clarke explains the importance of finding a program where you’re more than just a number:
“SPI just seemed to be a more family-oriented type organization where you felt like you were a name, not just a number.”
Freight agent Steve Burroughs adds:
“Change is a scary thing. We had been with the same company for almost 15 years. But when the new ownership changed everything, SPI provided the leadership and support we needed to make a seamless transition.”
2. Research Other Freight Agent Programs
Once you’ve decided to move, research different programs by considering:
- Commission splits
- Back-office support
- Carrier vetting technology
- Customer ownership policies
- Company culture
- Contract terms
Freight agent Nathan Chaney emphasizes the importance of understanding the back-office support provided:
“SPI’s back-office support is key. They handle invoicing, payments, and credit approvals so I can focus on growing my business.”
Dino Del Grosso agrees, stating that SPI’s culture was a key factor in his decision:
“It feels like home. From the president to the support staff, they make sure you have what you need to succeed.”
3. Plan Your Customer Transition
If you own your customer relationships, ensure a smooth transition by:
- Communicating your move with key accounts
- Working with your new agency to set up contracts quickly
- Ensuring continuity in service
Steve Burroughs recalls the challenges of moving customers but emphasizes that support from SPI made the difference:
“Joe [Chandler] stayed for three and a half weeks onboarding us… He made sure we were comfortable with the process before he left.”
Who Has the Best Freight Agent Programs?
The best freight agent program depends on what you prioritize. Some of the most well-known options include:
- SPI Logistics: Strong technology, excellent support, and one of the highest commission splits in the industry.
- Landstar: Large network but known for restrictive non-compete agreements.
- GlobalTranz: Competitive structure but may have agent saturation concerns.
- CH Robinson: Well-established but can have lower commission splits.
Brad Clarke explains why SPI stood out:
“Unlike larger firms, SPI doesn’t lock you into a two-year non-compete. You also get a high commission rate and direct access to leadership.”
Tynan Guthrie adds that SPI’s unlimited potential was a major draw:
“I always wanted to run my own company, but it’s so scary. SPI lets me be an entrepreneur without the huge risk.”
What Percentage Commission Splits Do Freight Agents Make?
Commission splits vary widely but typically fall within the following ranges:
- Low-End Programs: 40-60% commission to the agent
- Mid-Tier Programs: 60-70% commission
- Top-Tier Programs: 70-80% commission
- SPI Logistics: Offers competitive commissions with no hidden fees
Mike Mikulik breaks down the financial benefits of being with SPI:
“We take on all the financial risk, including credit and collections, allowing agents to focus on revenue-generating activities.”
How to Tell if SPI Logistics is a Good Fit for You
SPI Logistics is a strong choice for experienced freight agents who:
- Want high commission splits without hidden fees
- Need strong back-office support
- Prefer a non-saturated environment
- Value a leadership team that invests in agents
Freight agent Michael Gray shares why SPI was the right fit for him:
“SPI gives me the tools I need to succeed. I’ve added 12 new customers in the last six months and doubled my revenue.”
Software and Support a Freight Agent Program Should Provide
A great freight agent program should offer:
- A modern TMS with integrations for load boards and automation
- Carrier vetting tools to prevent fraud
- Customer invoicing and collections support
- Sales support and lead generation tools
- Ability to integrate your current tech stack with the freight agent program’s system
Mitch Helten, founder of SPI, explains their commitment to technology:
“We ensure our agents have access to the best TMS system, fraud prevention tools, and automation software to stay ahead of the competition.”
Why You Should Be Cautious of Agent Saturation
Some freight agent programs have too many agents competing for the same customers. SPI Logistics avoids this problem by limiting agent saturation.
Anita Bassi from SPI highlights this issue:
“Unlike other programs, SPI does not have agent saturation. That gives our agents room to grow without internal competition.”
Legal Questions to Ask a Freight Agent Program
When evaluating a program, ask these critical legal questions:
- Do I own my customers, or does the agency?
- Is there a non-compete clause?
- What are the contract termination terms?
- Are there hidden fees or deductions from my commission?
Brad Clarke warns about restrictive contracts:
“If you don’t own your customers, you’ll probably have to quit, wait two years, and then start again.”
How SPI Logistics Differs from Other Freight Agent Programs
What Sets SPI Logistics Apart?
- High Commission Splits: SPI offers top-tier commission rates without excessive fees.
- Strong Back-Office Support: Handling invoicing, credit checks, and collections.
- Advanced Technology: A modern TMS with automation and fraud prevention.
- No Agent Saturation: Protecting agent territories for better growth opportunities.
- Agent-First Culture: Direct access to leadership and a support system designed for success.
Nathan Chaney sums up SPI’s advantages:
“SPI has everything I need—strong tech, back-office support, and a team that actually cares about my success.”
Conclusion
Choosing the right freight agent program can transform your career. Whether you’re looking for higher earnings, better support, or a more agent-friendly environment, SPI Logistics stands out as one of the best options available.
Ready to explore SPI Logistics? Check out our compilation episode below hearing directly from the leadership team of SPI Logistics.
Timestamps:
- 01:29 – Mike Mikulik, VP, Marketing and Sales
- 45:29 – Taryn Reeves, Head of the AP Department
- 01:28:50 – Eze Peralta, VP of Technology
- 02:28:30 – Anita Bassi, Vice President of People and Operations
Want to hear more? See all of our freight agent episodes here.
