common questions

A transport broker is not just a middleman—they connect shippers with the right carriers to move freight efficiently. More importantly, they help ensure public and highway safety by working only with qualified, reliable carriers who meet safety and compliance standards.

In most freight arrangements, the carrier (the company physically transporting the goods) is the one that carries liability insurance and sometimes cargo insurance as well. This insurance typically covers:

• Liability insurance: For damage or injury caused during transport (e.g., accidents)
• Cargo insurance: For loss or damage to the freight itself (may have limits and exclusions)

However, shippers can (and often should) purchase additional cargo insurance to ensure full coverage, especially for high-value goods.

Transport brokers, while not physically handling the freight, are required by law (in the U.S.) to carry a surety bond or trust fund (e.g., the BMC-84 or BMC-85), but not cargo or liability insurance.

Shipping to Canada or Mexico – What You Need:

Work with a freight company or broker (like Anka Logistics 😉) that specializes in international shipments and knows the customs requirements.

• Bill of Lading (BOL)
• Commercial Invoice
• Certificate of Origin (USMCA or other)
• Customs Broker info (for clearance at the border)
• Packing List (sometimes required)

• They handle the import/export process, ensuring your freight clears customs without delays.

Depending on what you're shipping, your goods may be subject to tariffs, duties, or taxes. A customs broker can calculate these for you.

Good carriers provide real-time tracking and updates across the border.

• Truckload / LTL: Most common and cost-effective for cross-border freight
• Intermodal: If you're combining truck + rail
• Air Freight: Faster for urgent or high-value goods