July 28, 2023

How to stop bad brokers

Written by: Great Plains Staff

Untitled (1) If you stumble upon an unfamiliar broker while searching for a load, don't worry! You can effortlessly confirm their status by simply clicking on this link: https://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov/LIVIEW/pkg_carrquery.prc_authorityhistory

Simply input the MC or FF number (if FF number is selected, remember to click the drop-down box on the left and choose FF number)
Initiate the search
Proceed by clicking on the HTML button

By simply clicking on the provided link, you will have access to vital information about the broker, including their legal name, the presence of a DBA name, the status of their broker authority, and the status of their bond.

For more comprehensive details, scroll down to the bottom of the screen and select "active/pending insurance." It is of utmost importance to verify that there is no cancellation date listed on the bond. If a cancellation date is present, ensure that there is another bond in place to cover the cancellation period.

To gain further insight into the broker's background and identify any potential warning signs, you can explore the "insurance history" section. This will allow you to examine recent name changes that may be linked to the broker. By doing so, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of their history and be able to identify any red flags that may arise.

Furthermore, make sure to click on the "authority history" tab to determine if the broker has encountered any recent cancellations, revocations of authority, or changes in ownership. This information is crucial in evaluating the broker's trustworthiness and credibility.

Always remember, conducting thorough research and verifying the accuracy of the information provided by the broker is essential to safeguard your interests and ensure a smooth and successful transaction.

It is crucial to meticulously examine the accuracy of the rate confirmation provided by the broker. Carefully scrutinize the name stated on the rate sheet and cross-reference it with the name listed on the FMCSA website. Any inconsistency between the two poses a potential risk. If you decide to proceed with the load and later need to file a claim for payment, the bond company may refuse to process it.

Additionally, pay close attention to the rate sheet and check if it instructs you to use a different name for check-in purposes, either yours or the brokers. Should you come across the name "RIGZ" anywhere on the rate sheet, such as being asked to submit paperwork to RIGZ, please be aware that we will not provide funding in such cases.

When your driver takes possession of the load, it is of utmost importance for them to remain vigilant and thoroughly inspect the Bill of Lading (BOL) for any indication of a different broker or carrier name. If there happens to be any name other than yours or the broker's name from whom you acquired the load, it could potentially indicate that the load is being double-brokered.

To establish your unequivocal ownership over the load, kindly instruct your driver to inscribe your company name below their signature on the BOL. This simple yet crucial step guarantees that you have complete control and accountability for the load, safeguarding your interests and ensuring a seamless transaction.

WHEN REQUESTING A CREDIT CHECK VIA EMAIL

To expedite the process, kindly provide us with the MC/FF Number and the payment amount for the load. Including this information in your initial email will greatly accelerate the credit check. In case you only have the name, we will require the city and state where they are located.

If your dispatch team does not currently have access to our portal for checking the credit status of a customer, fret not! We have a solution. We can set them up with personalized login information that grants them access to the customer lookup section of our website. Making this happen is as simple as having the owner of your company request this service. Rest assured, your dedicated account executive will be by your side throughout the entire process, providing assistance every step of the way.