Asset-Based vs. Brokered Freight: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

When you’re shipping freight, the type of logistics partner you choose can have a major impact on cost, reliability, and control. One of the most important decisions shippers face is whether to work with an asset-based carrier, a freight broker, or a provider that offers a blend of both.

But what do these terms actually mean — and which one is right for your freight?

In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between asset-based and brokered freight, the pros and cons of each, and how Ways To Go Transportation gives you the best of both worlds.

🏢 What Is an Asset-Based Carrier?

An asset-based carrier is a company that owns and operates its own fleet of trucks, trailers, and drivers. When you book freight with them, your shipment is handled using their in-house equipment and people.

Advantages:

• 🚛 Direct control over trucks and drivers

• ⏱️ Reliable capacity and predictable schedules

• 🛠️ Faster issue resolution and fewer handoffs

Best for: Shippers who need consistent service, high-value loads, or dedicated lanes.

🔄 What Is a Freight Broker?

A freight broker doesn’t own trucks. Instead, they act as a middleman between shippers and carriers — sourcing capacity from a large network of independent trucking companies.

Advantages:

• 🌐 Access to a wide carrier network

• 🧩 Flexible solutions for last-minute or unusual loads

• 💰 Potential cost savings due to competitive pricing

Best for: Occasional shippers, one-off freight, or companies that need fast access to niche capacity.

⚖️ Asset-Based vs. Brokered Freight: Quick Comparison

Feature	Asset-Based Carrier	Freight Broker
Own Trucks/Drivers	✅ Yes	❌ No
Response Time	Fast & direct	Varies by carrier availability
Network Flexibility	Limited to fleet	Access to thousands of carriers
Shipment Control	High	Lower – depends on contracted carrier
Best Use Case	Dedicated lanes, high-value loads	One-off, spot freight, remote lanes

🧠 So, Which One Is Better?

It depends on what you’re shipping — and what matters most to you.

If you value reliability, control, and long-term consistency, asset-based carriers are hard to beat.

If you need flexibility, fast capacity, or niche solutions, a broker can get the job done.

But here’s the good news: You don’t have to choose.

🤝 Ways To Go Transportation: The Best of Both Worlds

At Ways To Go Transportation, we offer both asset-based shipping through Mercer Transportation and a network of outside. That means you get:

• ✅ Priority access to trucks and drivers

• 🌎 Nationwide coverage with flexible options

• 🧾 One point of contact, full accountability

• 💼 Expert help choosing the right solution for every load

  
  

We’ll match your freight with the best carrier — whether it’s our own assets or a specialized partner — while ensuring visibility and care every step of the way.

📦 Need Smarter Freight Solutions?

Let’s make your logistics simple. Whether you ship daily or occasionally, our team is ready to help you find the right mix of control and flexibility.

📞 Call us: 859-485-1744

📧 Email: dispatch@waystogo-trans.com

📝 Request a Quote