> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://loadwork.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Protect yourself from freight fraud and double-brokering

> Learn the warning signs of double-brokering and freight fraud on load boards, and how to verify brokers independently before you haul.

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<Snippet file="not-a-broker.mdx" />

Freight fraud and double-brokering cost carriers time, money, and trust. Double-brokering happens when a broker gives your load to another carrier without telling you, or when a broker re-brokers a load they do not have the right to move. Freight fraud covers a wider range of scams, including fake brokers, stolen loads, and bait-and-switch rates.

Load Work checks broker authority and scores every load to help you spot risk early. But no algorithm replaces your own judgment. Always verify a broker yourself before you haul.

## Red flags to watch for

Watch for these warning signs on any load or broker:

* **No active authority** — A red or gray authority badge means the broker is unverified. Check FMCSA yourself.
* **New broker with very high load volume** — A broker first seen days ago with thousands of postings is suspicious. Legitimate brokers build volume over time.
* **Broker name is just a phone number with no MC** — A bare phone number and no MC/DOT number is a strong caution signal.
* **Rates that seem too good** — If the rate is far above market for the lane, ask why. Fraudulent brokers sometimes use high rates to attract quick calls.
* **Pressure to sign quickly or send paperwork fast** — A legitimate broker will not rush you past your own verification steps.
* **Broker asks you to re-broker the load** — If a broker tells you to find another carrier for the load, that is double-brokering. Do not do it.

## What to do if something feels wrong

If a load or broker raises any red flag, follow these steps:

1. **Do not load.** Stop the process immediately. No rate is worth the risk.
2. **Verify on FMCSA independently.** Go to [safer.fmcsa.dot.gov](https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov) and look up the MC number yourself.
3. **Contact the shipper directly if possible.** If you can identify the shipper from the load details, call them to confirm the broker is authorized to move the freight.
4. **Report the broker to Load Work.** Email [support@loadworkhub.com](mailto:support@loadworkhub.com) with the broker ID and a description of what happened. Response time is 1 business day.

## Important caveat

<Warning>
  Load Work's scores and authority checks are based on available data and may lag reality. Always verify a broker's MC number on FMCSA yourself before accepting a load. A green badge is a good signal, not a guarantee.
</Warning>

## If a broker acted in bad faith

If you hauled a load and later discover fraud or non-payment:

* Document everything: load ID, broker ID, MC number, rate confirmation, BOL, and delivery receipts
* Email [support@loadworkhub.com](mailto:support@loadworkhub.com) with the broker ID and what happened
* File a complaint with FMCSA if the broker is operating without authority
* Contact your factoring company or attorney if payment is withheld

Load Work does not book freight and does not verify that a booking happened. We provide the lead. You make the call, and you are responsible for your own verification.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Vet a broker before you call" icon="user-check" href="/trust/vet-a-broker-before-you-call">
    A step-by-step checklist for researching any broker on Load Work.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Broker authority badges" icon="badge-check" href="/trust/broker-authority-badges">
    What the green, red, and gray badges mean and how to respond to each.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

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