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Independent Freight Agent Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Roadsmax Inc

Freight Sales Agent

Burbank, CA · On-site

Freight Sales Agent Roadsmax is hiring experienced Freight Broker Agents to join our growing team ... This is a 1099 opportunity for brokers who want to earn more, work independently, and have the ...

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Roadsmax Inc

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Freight Sales Agent

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$150K - $500K/yr

Freight Agent - Up to 70% Commission Company: Roadsmax Location: Los Angeles, CA / Hybrid Job Type ... Independent Contractor (1099) Compensation: $150,000-$500,000+ earning potential | Uncapped ...

Roadsmax Inc

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Freight Sales Agent

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$150K - $500K/yr

Freight Agent - Up to 70% Commission Company: Roadsmax Location: Los Angeles, CA / Hybrid Job Type ... Independent Contractor (1099) Compensation: $150,000-$500,000+ earning potential | Uncapped ...

Alba Wheels Up

Senior Freight Coordinator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$49K - $74K/yr

Understand agent fees and pricing per client in order to process invoices accurately * Follow ... Must be a team player and also be able to work independently * Good communication skills (verbal ...

AGI

Warehouse Agent

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$20 - $25.25/hr

Alliance Ground International (AGI) is one of the largest independently owned ground handling ... Check freight for proper piece count, weight, dimensions and documents as appropriate when ...

Harbor Freight Tools

Patent Agent I (Remote)

Calabasas, CA · On-site +1

$117K - $176K/yr

Must be a team player able to work both independently and collaboratively to resolve time sensitive ... USPTO registration About Harbor Freight Tools We're a 45 year-old, $8 billion national tool ...

Harbor Freight Tools

Patent Agent I (Remote)

Calabasas, CA · Remote

$117K - $176K/yr

The Patent Agent I helps support, manage, educate, and provide counsel regarding the company's IP ... Must be a team player able to work both independently and collaboratively to resolve time sensitive ...

BradyPLUS

Purchasing/Procurement Agent

Bell, CA · On-site

$32 - $34/hr

Balance all invoices against order confirmation along with freight charges and quantities received ... Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively as a team player * Discreet and ...

Alliance Ground International, LLC

Ramp Agent

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Alliance Ground International (AGI) is one of the largest independently owned ground handling ... Receive and record customer baggage, air freight, mail, and company materials as required. * Pick ...

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All JobsIndependent Freight Agent JobsIndependent Freight Agent Jobs in California

Independent Freight Agent information

See California salary details

$10

$24

$63

How much do independent freight agent jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent freight agent in California is $24.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent freight agent?

Independent Freight Agents are self-employed professionals who act as intermediaries between shippers and carriers to arrange the transportation of goods. They work on commission, using their industry knowledge and network to match freight with available carriers, negotiate rates, and ensure shipments are delivered efficiently. Unlike freight brokers employed by a company, independent agents operate their own business, often partnering with larger freight brokerage firms for support and access to carrier networks. Their primary role is to facilitate logistics, manage client relationships, and provide customer service throughout the shipping process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent freight agent?

To thrive as an Independent Freight Agent, you need strong sales abilities, knowledge of logistics and transportation regulations, and typically some experience or training in freight brokerage. Familiarity with transportation management systems (TMS), load boards, and often a freight broker license is important for managing shipments and compliance. Excellent negotiation, relationship-building, and organizational skills help agents secure business and ensure smooth coordination. These skills ensure efficient freight movement, satisfied clients, and sustained business growth in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges independent freight agents face when building their client base?

Independent Freight Agents often encounter challenges such as establishing trust with new shippers and carriers, differentiating their services in a competitive market, and maintaining consistent communication to secure repeat business. Building a solid reputation requires proactive outreach, excellent customer service, and staying updated on industry trends. Agents must also effectively manage their time and resources since they typically work independently without the support structure found in larger logistics firms.

What is the difference between Independent Freight Agent vs Freight Broker?

AspectIndependent Freight AgentFreight Broker
CredentialsMay require freight agent license, industry knowledgeRequires freight broker license, surety bond
Work EnvironmentOperate independently or with agencies, client-focusedWork with shippers and carriers, brokered transactions
Employer & Industry UsageIndependent or agency-based, logistics and freightBrokerages, freight forwarding companies
Search & Comparison IntentHigh overlap in responsibilities, licensing, and industrySimilar roles but with different licensing and scope

While both roles involve coordinating freight shipments, an Independent Freight Agent typically works independently or with agencies, focusing on client relationships and sales. A Freight Broker acts as an intermediary, connecting shippers with carriers and requiring specific licensing. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service provider.

How do I become an independent freight agent?

To become an independent freight agent, you typically need to gain knowledge of freight logistics, transportation regulations, and sales skills. Many agents start by working for a freight brokerage or carrier to gain industry experience, then establish their own business, obtain necessary licenses such as a freight broker license, and build relationships with shippers and carriers. Proficiency with transportation management software and understanding of freight rates are also beneficial.

Is becoming an independent freight agent worth it?

Becoming an independent freight agent can be worthwhile for those with strong sales, negotiation, and logistics skills, as it offers flexibility and potential for high earnings. However, success depends on building a client base, understanding industry regulations, and managing operational costs. It requires self-motivation and knowledge of freight management tools and market trends.

What do independent freight agents do?

Independent freight agents coordinate the transportation of goods by acting as intermediaries between shippers and carriers. They handle tasks such as booking shipments, negotiating rates, and managing logistics to ensure timely delivery, often working with freight management software and maintaining industry certifications. Their role involves sales, customer service, and knowledge of transportation regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Independent Freight Agent jobs in California?

For Independent Freight Agent jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Freight Agent jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Freight Agent jobs in California are:

Independent Freight Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Freight Agent job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,543 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Independent Freight Broker Agent

4Leaf Services

Los Angeles, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Are you tired of your parent brokerage micro-managing your day, locking you out of accounts due to arbitrary internal "territory conflicts," or nickel-and-diming your commissions with hidden software fees?
4Leaf Services is a brand-new, agile freight brokerage looking for elite, self-sufficient Independent Agents. Because we are new, our customer house list is completely wide open. If you have been forced to walk away from lucrative direct shippers because another agent at your current house "claimed" them first, you can bring them here and run them without internal competition.
We do not look over your shoulder. We do not play games. We provide the authority, the bond, customer required cargo and liability insurance, the back-office support, and software so you can run your business, your way.
You will operate as a true "cradle-to-grave" operator for your own business:
  • Maintain and grow your existing relationships with direct shippers.
  • Manage the complete load lifecycle: pricing, booking, tracking, carrier negotiation, dispatch, customer service, and digital paperwork upload.

Requirements
Active Book of Business: Must have at least one active, direct shipper customer ready to move freight on day one.
Proven Track Record: At least 6 months of verifiable 1099 Independent Freight Agent experience, OR 2+ years of combined W-2 freight brokerage sales (with transferable accounts) and carrier dispatch experience.
Fully Experienced: Zero training is provided. You must know how to price, book, track, and close out loads autonomously.
Home Office Infrastructure: Must own a reliable computer, a dedicated phone line, and high-speed internet access.
Location: Must legally reside and operate within the United States.
Benefits
Business & Financial Advantages (1099 Freedom)
As a 1099 contractor, you don't receive standard W-2 benefits like health insurance or PTO. Instead, we maximize your independence and revenue:
  • No Tech Fees: Zero chargebacks for TMS, load boards, or back-office.
  • 100% Remote Flexibility: Work whenever, wherever, and however you want.
  • Unlimited Earnings: No caps, tiers, or corporate salary limits on your book.
  • Open CRM Territory: Zero internal account competition. First come, first served.

Apply