Direct deposit (ACH — Automated Clearing House) is how most freight brokers pay carriers. Setting it up correctly from the start prevents payment delays, lost checks, and the hassle of chasing paper payments.

What information brokers need for direct deposit

• Bank name — the name of your bank (Chase, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, etc.)
• Account type — checking (almost always) or savings
• Routing number — the 9-digit ABA routing number for your bank
• Account number — your specific checking account number

This information goes directly in your carrier packet. TruckerPacket includes a payment information section where you enter exactly this.

Where to find your routing and account numbers

• On a check: The routing number is the first 9 digits in the bottom left. Your account number is the second set of numbers.
• In your banking app: Most banks show routing and account numbers in account details
• Bank website: Log in and look for "account details" or "direct deposit setup"
• Call your bank: They can provide both numbers after verifying your identity

Business account vs personal account

Use a dedicated business checking account for your trucking business, not a personal account. This is important for tax purposes (clean separation of business and personal finances), professionalism (brokers see a business account name), and protection (if your business account is compromised, your personal finances are separate).

You can open a business checking account at most major banks. Many offer free or low-fee accounts for small businesses. Some banks — like Relay Financial — specialize in accounts for small trucking companies.

What if I use a factoring company instead?

If you use freight factoring, do NOT put your personal bank account in the payment section of your carrier packet. Instead, put your factoring company's payment information and attach your Notice of Assignment (NOA). The factoring company provides their exact banking details for this purpose.