The four largest freight brokers in the United States — TQL, Echo Global Logistics, Coyote Logistics, and C.H. Robinson — together control a significant share of the US spot freight market. Getting approved by all four dramatically expands your load options. Here's how to set up with each one.
What all four brokers require
Before applying to any of these, make sure you have:
- Active MC authority (check authority age requirements — see below)
- $750,000+ auto liability insurance ($1,000,000 preferred by all four)
- $100,000+ cargo insurance
- Complete carrier packet PDF
- W-9 form
- Certificate of Insurance
Total Quality Logistics (TQL)
Authority age requirement: Typically 6+ months for standard approval
How to apply: Go to tql.com/carriers and click "Carrier Setup." TQL uses their own carrier setup form. Have your MC number, DOT number, and insurance information ready.
What makes it easier: TQL has a dedicated carrier setup team. Call 800-580-3101 and ask for the carrier setup department. Having a completed carrier packet ready when they ask speeds the process significantly.
Echo Global Logistics
Authority age requirement: More flexible than others — known to work with newer carriers
How to apply: Visit echo.com/carriers or call their carrier relations team. Echo uses a carrier setup form on their website.
What makes it easier: Echo is often recommended as one of the more accessible large brokers for new carriers. Have your complete carrier packet ready and apply online first, then follow up by phone.
Coyote Logistics (UPS)
Authority age requirement: Typically 90+ days
How to apply: Visit coyote.com/carriers and complete their carrier registration. Coyote uses Highway for carrier verification — set up your Highway profile first.
What makes it easier: Coyote has strong lane coverage in the Midwest. Once approved, their load volume is consistent.
C.H. Robinson (CHR)
Authority age requirement: Typically 6-12 months of operating history
How to apply: Visit chrobinson.com/carriers and register through Navisphere Carrier. CHR uses MyCarrierPackets for carrier onboarding.
What makes it easier: CHR is the world's largest freight broker by revenue. They are typically the hardest to get into as a new carrier. Focus on building your authority history and safety record, then apply.
Carrier onboarding platforms to set up before applying
Many major brokers use third-party platforms to verify carriers. Setting up profiles on these before you apply speeds up the approval process:
- MyCarrierPackets — used by CH Robinson and many others
- Highway — used by Coyote and many mid-size brokers
- RMIS — used by some major shippers and brokers