Freight Agent FAQs

General

MODE Transportation is striving to do more than manage freight movement, we’re seeking to solve any and all complex shipping problems. Our freight agents join us in delivering confidence and you can too. With agents who have been with us since the beginning in 1989 to agents who joined yesterday who wished they’d joined us sooner, you’ll feel at home with us. MODE Transportation will work hard to promote your success, celebrate your achievements, and help you grow.

What is the ‘network’ MODE keeps talking about?

Our freight agents work together as a network of independent business owners, instead MODE employees. They are linked through MODE and may work closely together for operational support or remain autonomous.

What is the application process?

After a discussion with our recruiter where both you and the recruiter think MODE Transportation is a good fit for you, we’ll review our policies with you. A credit and background check will also be completed. After this is approved, the agreement will be signed by both parties and a start date will be established.

How long does new agent on-boarding take?

The timeline for new agent on-boarding varies depending on office-size, number of customers, and various other reasons. However, the transition can be completed in as short as a weekend. As a new agent, we will provide additional support until you feel comfortable.

Your Business

I have a small, but well-established business already, is there a place for me at MODE?

YES! Whether your goal is to maintain a small business model or grow through additional team members or larger customers, MODE Transportation is dedicated to supporting you.

I already have a large, comprehensive group of professional on my team. What’s the benefit of joining MODE Transportation?

MODE Transportation is a great place for large agencies. If you join us, you’ll receive extensive back office support, incredible technology, access to all modes of transportation, and financial relief. When large agencies join MODE, a project manager is assigned to guarantee a smooth transition including training and coordination.

Can I convert all my customers to MODE Transportation when I become a MODE freight agent?

As part of the application/consideration process, MODE conducts an account clearance on provided accounts to see if any of our current agents are working with the same customer. If there is an overlap, we will be sure to inform you. Often, when an overlap occurs, our current agents will be working on one product line while the new agent is working on a different product line. We work hard to solve any account clearance challenges during the interview stages.

Can I choose what I sell and operate?

YES! While other 3PLs control your market and offerings, we allow you to specialize in what you do best while providing training if you ever decide to add a new product line. Many of our freight agents who focus on domestic freight will send their international opportunities to MODE international freight agents.

Technology

My office already has a Transportation Management System we like, do we have to switch to yours?

Our technology is a free service to you, your customers, carriers, and vendors. It can ‘bolt on’ to your current systems. While we require everything to be transmitted into our TMS system, much of your current automation can be still be used.

What can your TMS do for a freight agent?

Our TMS is an internet-based, real time application that allows for full shipment execution. It is always growing in functionality, but currently will:

Tender loads via email, portals, and EDI
Generate important documents (tender/dispatch, quote, bill of landing, & invoices)
Invoice customer (manifest & individual)
Optimize routes & route planning (multi-pick/multi-drop)
Provide access to an extensive community of carriers and solutions
Visibility of backhaul capacity
Increased carrier reliability and performance through error reduction
Reporting, customizable tools
Ability to post on public load boards
Status messaging on your freight

Support

What kind of training is provided?

You can expect comprehensive training on each product line, our technology, and sales techniques. Various other training opportunities will be provided as needed.

I have experience with IM and TL but would like to offer LTL, will you help me learn LTL sales and operations?

Absolutely! At MODE Transportation, we want our freight agents to succeed so our executive sales support team and product line managers will work with you to learn any new service offerings. We provide technology training and general training for each product line. Our extensive agent network also provides support when entering a new product line.

What type of marketing materials are provided?

Our marketing department supports your business endeavors through general sales slicks to customized presentation decks for your customer. Our online store makes ordering MODE branded promotional goods easy! We also offer access to our printing portal to stock your office with stationary, letterhead, and business cards, which we often pick up the tab on.