Key takeaways
- Bigger isn't always better in freight brokerage. The largest brokers optimize for volume and standardization, often at the expense of personalized service, flexibility, and specialized expertise that many shippers actually need most.
- Mid-market brokers ($50-500M revenue) occupy the industry sweet spot. They're large enough to offer comprehensive technology, extensive carrier networks, and professional capabilities, yet small enough to maintain personal relationships and operational flexibility.
- Regional expertise delivers superior outcomes. Mid-market brokers with deep local knowledge understand industry-specific requirements, seasonal patterns, and infrastructure challenges that generic national providers often miss.
- Partnership alignment creates better results. Mid-market brokers build their success on long-term customer relationships rather than transaction volume, aligning their incentives directly with your shipping success and business growth.
Badger Logistics's Fall River Express brokerage combines 30+ years of transportation experience with modern logistics capabilities to serve shippers across North America. As part of the integrated Badger Logistics family, we provide freight brokerage backed by asset-based trucking, food-grade warehousing, and comprehensive logistics solutions.
A brief introduction
The freight brokerage industry has evolved dramatically over the past decade. With over 26,000 freight brokers operating across the United States, choosing the right transportation partner has become both more critical and more challenging than ever before.
Whether you're a manufacturer in Wisconsin shipping nationwide, a distributor managing complex supply chains, or a growing business looking to optimize transportation costs, the freight broker you choose can make or break your logistics strategy.
This guide examines the top freight brokerage companies of 2025, reveals what separates exceptional brokers from the rest, and provides a detailed framework for making the best choice for your business.
Understanding modern freight brokerage in 2025
The freight brokerage landscape has undergone a significant transformation since around 2020.
Digital platforms, increased safety regulations, and supply chain disruptions have fundamentally changed how brokers operate and what shippers should expect from their transportation partners.
Today's freight brokers serve as more than intermediaries between shippers and carriers. The best brokers function as strategic logistics partners, offering:
- Technology-enabled visibility into shipment status and performance.
- Proactive problem resolution before issues impact your customers.
- Data analytics to optimize routing and reduce costs.
- Compliance management to ensure regulatory adherence.
- Capacity solutions during peak seasons and market disruptions.
The top 16 freight brokerage companies of 2025
We've compiled this comprehensive list by analyzing 2024 revenue data from Transportation Topics, customer satisfaction metrics, technology capabilities, and industry reputation. Companies are listed by founding date to show industry evolution.
Why bigger isn’t always better—the case for mid-market freight brokers
Shippers often assume the largest freight brokers are the best. In reality, size doesn’t always equal fit. Mega-brokers run on volume, automation, and standardized processes. That can mean lower prices on high-volume lanes—but also less flexibility, weaker service, and limited access to decision-makers.
With a national broker, your account may be handled by junior staff juggling hundreds of customers. Communication flows through automated systems, and resolving problems often requires navigating layers of bureaucracy. The result: you feel like a ticket number, not a partner.
Mid-market brokers—typically in the $50–500 million range—hit a sweet spot. They’re big enough to offer full-service capabilities, technology platforms, and wide carrier networks, but small enough to provide personalized service, operational agility, and direct access to leadership. Their business model depends on customer retention, aligning their incentives with your success.
For shippers moving 50–500 loads per month, this balance is especially powerful. You’re significant enough to earn priority treatment, but not so large that you require the massive infrastructure of a mega-broker. Mid-market firms can tailor solutions, adapt quickly, and give you true account-level attention.
Regional mid-market brokers add even more value with local expertise—understanding seasonal shipping patterns, regulatory nuances, and industry-specific needs. This insight improves carrier matching, transit time accuracy, and proactive problem-solving.
Importantly, the technology gap has closed. Mid-market brokers use the same advanced tracking, TMS, and analytics as larger competitors—but with more flexibility to customize tools around your business.
For companies that value partnership, adaptability, and industry-specific knowledge, mid-market brokers often deliver the best of both worlds: scale and sophistication, without sacrificing the human touch that drives logistics success.
About Fall River Express (Badger Logistics)Fall River Express combines 30+ years of transportation experience with modern logistics capabilities to serve shippers across North America. As part of the integrated Badger Logistics family, we provide freight brokerage backed by asset-based trucking, food-grade warehousing, and comprehensive logistics solutions. Our Wisconsin-based team understands the unique needs of Midwest manufacturers while offering national coverage through our extensive carrier network. |
1. C.H. Robinson Worldwide
Founded: 1905
Headquarters: Eden Prairie, Minnesota
2024 Gross Revenue: $12.47B (est.)
Annual Shipments: 35+ million
The industry giant, C.H. Robinson leverages its massive scale to provide comprehensive logistics solutions. Their technology platform offers extensive visibility, though some customers report feeling like "just a number" in their vast operation.
- Strengths: Global reach, technology platform, capacity access.
- Considerations: May lack personalized service for smaller shippers.
2. Schneider
Founded: 1935
Headquarters: Green Bay, Wisconsin
2024 Gross Revenue: $6.64B (est.)
Network: 22,000+ carriers
Schneider's FreightPower network combines asset-based and brokerage services. Their bright orange branding is synonymous with reliability, though their focus on large-scale operations may not suit specialized shipping needs.
- Strengths: Asset-based backing, strong safety record, regional expertise.
- Considerations: Less flexible for unique shipping requirements.
3. J.B. Hunt Integrated Capacity Solutions
Founded: 1961
Headquarters: Lowell, Arkansas
2024 Gross Revenue: $1.84B (est.)
Daily Shipments: 2,100+
J.B. Hunt's ICS division offers strong intermodal capabilities and digital platform integration. Their size enables competitive pricing but may result in less responsive customer service.
- Strengths: Intermodal expertise, digital platforms, capacity scale.
- Considerations: Large-scale focus may miss nuanced customer needs.
4. ArcBest Corp.
Founded: 1966
Headquarters: Fort Smith, Arkansas
2024 Gross Revenue: $1.53B (est.)
Daily Shipments: 5,000+
ArcBest's MoLo service emphasizes innovation and flexibility. They serve diverse freight types but may lack specialized expertise in certain industries.
- Strengths: Innovation focus, diverse service offerings, flexibility.
- Considerations: Broad focus may lack industry-specific expertise.
5. Hub Group
Founded: 1971
Headquarters: Oak Brook, Illinois
2024 Gross Revenue: $1.825B (est.)
Assets: 45,000 intermodal containers
Hub Group operates significant intermodal assets with strong temperature-controlled capabilities. Their asset-heavy model provides capacity but may limit flexibility.
- Strengths: Intermodal leadership, temperature-controlled expertise.
- Considerations: Asset-focused approach may limit adaptability.
6. MODE Global
Founded: 1989
Headquarters: Dallas, Texas
2024 Gross Revenue: $2.3B (est.)
Network: 50,000+ carriers
MODE offers comprehensive transportation solutions with strong air and ocean capabilities. Their broad service portfolio may lack depth in specific transportation modes.
- Strengths: Multi-modal capabilities, comprehensive solutions.
- Considerations: Broad focus may lack specialized expertise.
7. Landstar System
Founded: 1991
Headquarters: Jacksonville, Florida
2024 Gross Revenue: $2.93B (est.)
Network: 90,000+ carriers
Landstar's agent-based model provides extensive coverage through independent agents. This model can create inconsistent service quality depending on your assigned agent.
- Strengths: Extensive network, specialized services, agent relationships.
- Considerations: Service quality varies by agent, less standardized approach.
8. WWEX Group
Founded: 1994
Headquarters: Dallas, Texas
2024 Gross Revenue: $4.02B (est.)
Daily Shipments: 140,000+
WWEX combines multiple brands (Worldwide Express, GlobalTranz, Unishippers) for comprehensive coverage. Brand integration challenges may create inconsistent customer experiences.
- Strengths: Multi-brand portfolio, extensive coverage, high volume.
- Considerations: Brand integration issues, potentially impersonal service.
9. Total Quality Logistics (TQL)
Founded: 1997
Headquarters: Union Township, Ohio
2024 Gross Revenue: $6.64B (est.)
Network: 140,000+ carriers
TQL has achieved rapid growth through aggressive sales tactics and extensive carrier networks. Their commission-based culture may prioritize volume over customer relationships.
- Strengths: Rapid growth, extensive carrier network, competitive pricing.
- Considerations: Commission-driven culture may impact service quality.
10. Echo Global Logistics
Founded: 2005
Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois
2024 Gross Revenue: $3B (est.)
Network: 50,000+ carriers
Echo focuses on technology innovation and comprehensive transportation solutions. Their tech-first approach may lack the personal touch many shippers value.
- Strengths: Technology focus, comprehensive solutions, innovation.
- Considerations: Technology emphasis may reduce personal service.
11. Nolan Transportation Group
Founded: 2005
Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia
2024 Gross Revenue: $1.4B (est.)
Network: 80,000+ carriers
NTG leverages the Beon technology stack for comprehensive logistics solutions. Their technology focus may overshadow relationship-building with customers.
- Strengths: Advanced technology stack, comprehensive solutions.
- Considerations: Technology focus may reduce personal attention.
12. Fall River Express (Badger Logistics)
Founded: 1993
Headquarters: Fall River, Wisconsin
2024 Annual Shipments: 12,000+
Network: 15,000+ vetted carriers
Fall River Express represents a fundamentally different approach to freight brokerage. As part of Badger Logistics, they combine the personal service of a regional broker with the capabilities of integrated transportation solutions.
What Sets Fall River Express Apart:
- Integrated Asset-Based Support: Unlike pure-play brokers, Fall River Express is backed by Badger Express's owned fleet, providing guaranteed capacity when other brokers can't deliver. This unique combination means you're never left without options.
- Real People, Real Relationships: While mega-brokers rely on automated systems, Fall River Express assigns dedicated account managers who know your business. When issues arise, you speak with someone who understands your specific needs and has decision-making authority.
- Wisconsin Manufacturing Expertise: With deep roots in Wisconsin's manufacturing corridor, Fall River Express understands the unique challenges of paper, packaging, food processing, and industrial shipments. They know your lanes, your receivers, and your requirements.
- Rigorous Carrier Vetting: Fall River Express requires all carriers to have minimum 12 months operating authority, strong safety scores, and comprehensive insurance. They won't work with carriers that have double-brokering reports or conditional safety ratings.
- Flexible Technology Approach: Rather than forcing customers into one technology platform, Fall River Express adapts to how you prefer to communicate—whether through EDI, email, phone calls, or exception-only reporting.
Comprehensive Service Portfolio:
- Full truckload (dry van, reefer, flatbed)
- Partial shipments (4-5 pallets, 4,000-5,000+ lbs)
- Intermodal services
- Over-dimensional and heavy haul
- Integrated warehousing solutions
- Strengths: Personal relationships, asset-based backing, regional expertise, flexible communication, comprehensive vetting.
- Best For: Mid-market manufacturers, Wisconsin-based shippers, businesses requiring reliable capacity and personal service.
13. Arrive Logistics
Founded: 2014
Headquarters: Austin, Texas
2024 Gross Revenue: $1.8B (est.)
Network: 40,000+ carriers
Arrive has achieved impressive growth through digital innovation and automation. Their rapid scaling may impact service consistency as they expand.
- Strengths: Digital innovation, rapid growth, automation focus.
- Considerations: Rapid scaling may impact service consistency.
14. Ascent Global Logistics
Founded: 2017
Headquarters: Belleville, Michigan
2024 Gross Revenue: $1.4B (est.)
Network: 60,000+ carriers
Ascent leverages proprietary PEAK technology for brokerage and managed transportation. As a newer company, they may lack the operational experience of established brokers.
- Strengths: Proprietary technology, managed transportation focus.
- Considerations: Newer company with less operational history.
15. RXO
Founded: 2022
Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina
2024 Gross Revenue: $2.36B (est.)
Network: 100,000+ carriers
RXO's recent acquisition of Coyote Logistics creates significant capacity but also integration challenges. Their tech-enabled approach may prioritize efficiency over relationship-building.
Strengths: Large-scale capacity, tech-enabled operations, recent growth
Considerations: Integration challenges, tech-first approach may reduce personal service
16. Uber Freight
Founded: 2016
Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois
2024 Gross Revenue: $2.1B (est.)
Network: 100,000+ carriers
Uber Freight brings app-based logistics to freight brokerage with innovative technology solutions. Their tech-first model may lack the deep industry relationships that traditional brokers provide.
- Strengths: Digital innovation, app-based platform, technology focus.
- Considerations: Limited industry relationships, tech-first approach may miss nuanced needs.
What makes a freight brokerage exceptional in 2025
Based on extensive research and industry analysis, exceptional freight brokerages share several key characteristics that separate them from commodity providers.
A true partnership mentalityExceptional brokers view themselves as extensions of your transportation department, not just vendors. They:
Warning signs: Brokers who only respond when you call, provide generic solutions, or quickly point fingers when issues arise. |
Transparent communicationWhat to look for:
Red flags: Vague pricing, communication only when pressed, overselling capabilities, or routing all communication through junior staff. |
Rigorous carrier standardsIndustry-leading brokers maintain strict standards:
Questions to ask: What's your carrier vetting process? How do you verify insurance? What safety standards do you require? |
Regional vs. national brokers: when size isn't everything
The freight brokerage industry often emphasizes scale, but size doesn't always correlate with service quality or value. Understanding when to choose regional versus national brokers can significantly impact your logistics success.
The case for regional brokers
| Advantages |
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| When regional makes sense |
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The case for national brokers
| Advantages |
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| When national makes sense |
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The hybrid approach: best of both worlds
Some brokers, like Fall River Express, offer a hybrid model that combines:
- Regional expertise with national coverage through brokerage networks
- Personal service with professional technology capabilities
- Local knowledge with diverse carrier relationships
- Flexibility with proven operational procedures
Key questions to ask every potential brokerService and Capabilities:
Carrier Network:
Technology and Reporting:
Business Relationship:
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Finding your ideal freight brokerage partner
The freight brokerage landscape offers numerous options, from massive national providers to specialized regional experts. The key to success lies not in choosing the biggest or cheapest option, but in finding the broker whose capabilities, culture, and service approach align with your specific business needs.
Remember that freight brokerage is ultimately a relationship business. Technology, scale, and pricing matter, but they should enhance—not replace—the fundamental elements of trust, communication, and mutual commitment to success.
Whether you choose a major national broker like C.H. Robinson for broad coverage, a regional specialist like Fall River Express for personalized service and local expertise, or another provider that meets your specific requirements, focus on building a true partnership that will support your business growth and customer satisfaction for years to come.
The time invested in thoroughly evaluating your options will pay dividends through improved service, reduced costs, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your freight is in capable hands.
A few thoughts on the future of freight brokerage
The brokerage industry continues to evolve, with more digital freight matching platforms and automated solutions entering the market. However, I believe the most successful brokers will be those who combine technology with strong personal relationships and industry expertise.
We're seeing this play out in several ways:
| Technology integration |
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| Personal service |
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The key here is finding the right balance. Technology should enhance service, not replace the human element that's crucial for solving complex logistics challenges.
Final thoughts and next steps
A freight broker should be more than just a middleman - they should be a strategic partner in your supply chain. The right broker brings value through their carrier relationships, market knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to service.
In my experience, the most successful broker-shipper relationships are built on trust, communication, and mutual understanding of business needs.
At Badger Logistics, we've built our brokerage operation on these principles, combining the personal touch of a family-owned business with the capabilities of a modern logistics provider. Whether you're shipping one load or managing a complex supply chain, understanding how freight brokerage works is crucial for making informed decisions about your transportation strategy.
Ready to experience the Fall River Express difference? Contact us for a no-obligation consultation and discover how personalized service and integrated solutions can optimize your supply chain.
