| Aspect | Bonded Carrier | Freight Broker |
|---|
| Credentials | FMCSA authority, USDOT number, surety bond | FMCSA authority, USDOT number, licensing, but no carrier bond |
| Work Environment | Operate vehicles, transport goods | Coordinate shipments, connect shippers and carriers |
| Industry Usage | Transport companies, logistics providers | Logistics companies, freight forwarding |
Bonded Carriers are licensed to operate vehicles and transport freight directly, requiring a surety bond. Freight Brokers act as intermediaries, coordinating shipments between shippers and carriers without physically transporting goods. Both roles require FMCSA authority and USDOT numbers, but Bonded Carriers hold specific transportation credentials, while Freight Brokers focus on logistics and coordination.