?? HOT TAKE: BIGGER ISN’T ALWAYS BETTER

Let’s get real: size matters, but not in the way big brokerages want you to believe. Sure, they love flaunting their massive carrier networks and dirt cheap rates, but when it comes to delivering real results, their volume-driven approach often leaves shippers frustrated, paying more and – dare I say – thoroughly unsatisfied.

If you’re picking brokers based purely on price, those “savings” might just come with costly strings attached. Here are only a few reasons why:

What Big Brokerages Don’t Want You to Know

?? Missed Opportunities

Big brokerages are built for scale, not strategy. They prioritize speed over smarts, moving freight fast without taking the time to analyze your specific needs. Freight consolidation? Smarter routing? These value-added strategies require attention to detail...something big brokers rarely offer.

?? Hidden Fees

That rock bottom rate? Often just bait to reel you in. Once your shipment is moving, surprise charges like reclassifications, reweighs or liftgate fees start creeping in. By year-end, those “savings” could turn into a budget nightmare.

?? False Rates, Real Problems

Many big brokers win your truckload freight by quoting below-market rates without actually securing a truck. When they can’t cover the load, you’re either left with a service failure or forced to pay a much higher rate for a last minute truck. Either way, your shipment (and your reputation) takes the hit.

?? Damaged Relationships

Late deliveries, damaged freight or service failures reflect poorly on you, not your broker. The long-term cost of losing customer trust far outweighs the short-term savings big brokers promise. And

?? Wasted Time Costs

Big brokers often lack accountability. When something goes wrong, your team is stuck chasing answers, disputing charges and managing claims. That’s time you could be using to grow your business instead of putting out fires.

So… Are You Really Saving Money?

Let’s do the math:

• Low rates often = poor service.
• Poor service leads to more claims, more delays, and more hidden fees.
• By the end of the year, the “savings” you thought you were getting have been eaten up by all the extra costs and then some.

SMALLER BROKERAGES DELIVER MORE VALUE

Bigger brokers might win your business with a cheap quote, but their corner-cutting approach can cost you far more in the long run. From hidden fees to increased claims and damaged relationships, those rock-bottom rates aren’t the deal they seem to be.

Small to midsize brokerages (yes, like us!) offer something big brokers rarely do: a consultative approach. They’re not just moving loads, they’re working with you to create a better, more efficient supply chain.

Here’s why this approach makes a difference:?

?? They are Partners, Not Vendors

Smaller brokers take the time to understand your unique needs, goals and challenges. They’ll analyze your freight patterns, recommend smarter strategies and ensure every shipment supports your businesses long-term success. Not to mention you can usually get ahold of them any time of day!

?? Personalized Service

Unlike with big brokers, you’re not just another line item. Smaller brokers provide tailored solutions that make sense for your operation. Whether it’s freight consolidation, optimizing LTL shipments, analyzing your NMFCs, auditing every invoice, working with vendors and receivers to confirm accessorial and handling needs or negotiating better carrier terms…they’re thinking strategically and proactively.

?? Transparency You Can Trust

Smaller brokers provide honest rates upfront. They’re not hiding fees or relying on fine print to boost profits. What you see is what you pay and they work hard to avoid surprises because they have more skin in the game than big brokerages who treat shippers like a number.

?? Proactive Problem Solving

When issues arise…and let’s face it, they will…small brokers don’t ghost you. Most step up, take accountability and fix the problem. You’re not left chasing answers or cleaning up their mess. They focus on fair solutions to all parties.

PERFORMANCE TRUMPS SIZE

Bigger isn’t better, better is better..at least in freight. Big brokers might grab your attention with low rates and fancy platforms but their transactional approach often comes at a cost.

Small and midsize brokerages, with their consultative, hands-on approach, focus on building long-term relationships and delivering value far beyond the price of a single shipment.

So, the next time you’re vetting brokers, ask yourself: Do you want a partner who performs or one who overpromises and underdelivers?

Your freight deserves better. Choose a real partner who knows how to handle it where it counts and won’t leave you disappointed!