Working with new-authority brokers

Every broker starts somewhere. A new authority simply means less public history. Check these before you book.

• Grant date and status on FMCSA Licensing & Insurance (L&I): active broker authority, and how long ago it was granted.
• Bond or trust on file with no pending cancellation.
• Officers and address: do they match a recently revoked broker? That can point to a chameleon operation.
• References: ask for carrier references and call them.
• Terms: consider quick pay or factoring with a credit check while the broker builds history.

RatedPaid flags brokers whose authority is under 6 months and lists new authorities on Broker Risk Alerts.

Last reviewed 2026-10-25. General information, not legal advice. More guides · Check a broker