How to report a freight broker
Bad brokers count on carriers staying quiet. Filing a complaint in the right place — and posting a verified review — is what gets their authority pulled.
- FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database — nccdb.fmcsa.dot.gov
- BrokerTell — post a verified non-payment or fraud report on the broker's profile
- BMC-84 surety bond — file a claim with the bond company in SAFER for unpaid invoices
- TIA Watchdog — if you're a TIA member
- State AG — for fraud, identity theft of MC numbers, or wire fraud
FAQ
File a complaint with the FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database at nccdb.fmcsa.dot.gov. You'll need the broker's MC number, dates, dollar amounts, and a description of the issue (non-payment, double brokering, deceptive practices, etc.). The FMCSA reviews complaints and can investigate, fine, or revoke broker authority.
Beyond the FMCSA: (1) Post a verified report on BrokerTell so other carriers see it. (2) Report to TIA Watchdog if you're a TIA member. (3) File a claim against the broker's BMC-84 surety bond for unpaid invoices. (4) Report to your state attorney general's office for fraud. (5) Notify your factoring company so they can block future loads from the broker.
MC number, broker legal name, contact name and phone, dates of the load(s), origin and destination, dollar amount, rate confirmation, signed BOL, and a short written description. Screenshots of texts/emails and proof of delivery strengthen your case.
FMCSA complaints can be filed anonymously, but providing your contact info lets investigators follow up and request documents. On BrokerTell, only verified carrier or shipper accounts can post reports — your reviews are tied to your verified account, not posted anonymously.
FMCSA acknowledges complaints within a few business days but investigations can take weeks to months. Pattern complaints (multiple carriers reporting the same broker) move faster and are more likely to trigger enforcement action including authority revocation.
FMCSA may issue a warning, fine, or revoke broker authority for severe or repeat violations. BrokerTell publishes the verified report on the broker's profile, lowering their visibility and trust score. The broker gets a chance to respond, but cannot remove a verified report by request.