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Running a successful fleet requires more than just keeping trucks on the road, without appropriate accounting practices many operations will struggle. For established fleet owners, outdated bookkeeping practices can hurt profitability, complicate compliance, and stall your growth.

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Below we’ll cover seven strategies to improve and refine your financial operations, backed by industry insights and modern tools.

We’re only a month or so in and 2025 has already had its fair share of adversity for freight brokers and trucking companies. In addition to economic, political, and environmental factors that we’re predicting will impact brokers in 2025, relationships are also determining whether brokers survive the squeeze or thrive this year. 

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One of those key relationships is the relationship you have with carriers. With talk of carrier revenge and an impending power shift, it’s more important than ever to build strong carrier relationships. Let’s look at why these relationships matter, how you can become carriers’ broker of choice, and how financial partners like Denim can help.

Another year, another incredible Manifest in the books!

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Manifest: The Future of Logistics is where supply chain and logistics leaders come together to shape the future of freight. Industry innovators, investors, and technology providers gather to discuss emerging trends, connect with decision-makers, and discover solutions that drive efficiency and profitability. It’s not just about where the industry is today—it’s about where it’s headed next.

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For the past two years, we’ve taken the stage to challenge the status quo.  In 2023, we talked about why SmartBrokers will win the future of freight. Last year, we reimagined factoring as the strategic advantage for SmartBrokers. This year, we took the Innovation Stage to spotlight a critical issue in freight: how transactional relationships quietly drain profits and efficiency.

SmartBrokers know that prioritizing carrier relationships isn’t just about service—it’s a competitive advantage. The best brokers are turning their carrier partnerships into profit centers, creating sustainable revenue streams while strengthening their networks.

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If you missed our session at Manifest: Future of Logistics 2025, here’s a recap of the key takeaways to keep you ahead of the curve.

Why one-and-done carrier relationships cost you

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Focusing only on the next load keeps you in a costly cycle. Constantly chasing new carriers means more churn, more risk, and less stability—all eating into your margins.

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Denim’s data shows the average carrier relationship lasts just five loads. If you move 6,000 loads a year, that means working with 800 different carriers annually. Every time you start over, you spend valuable time and money vetting, onboarding, and ensuring compliance—resources that could go toward strengthening customer relationships and securing better freight.

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Long-term carrier partnerships change the game. Reliable carriers book more loads, prioritize your freight, and communicate proactively—reducing uncertainty and improving service. Strong relationships don’t just boost your margins; they make your business more resilient.

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Your carriers are more than a resource—they're your competitive edge. When they thrive, so do you.

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New revenue streams that strengthen carrier loyalty

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The freight market may be stabilizing, but carriers are feeling the squeeze. Operating costs have hit a 16-year high of $2.270 per mile—putting immense pressure on their bottom line. In this environment, great carriers aren’t just looking for loads. They’re looking for brokers who help them stay profitable.

QuickPay has rapidly become the preferred method for how to pay carriers, making it a required payment option for brokers across the country. With this rise in popularity, many brokers have noticed the challenges of QuickPay with traditional factoring companies, including high fees, data security risks, and frustrating manual processes. Brokers using these traditional companies can quickly be bogged down by the fees and new operational needs.

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That’s where Denim’s QuickPay shines - by changing a mundane and cumbersome process into a strategic business advantage. Whether you're looking to improve cash flow or create a new source of income, this article will show you how Denim is the best QuickPay provider for brokers.

Running a freight brokerage is no easy task, and managing your books is often one of the toughest parts. Between tracking payments, handling invoices, and staying on top of reserves, it can feel like your accounting team is always playing catch-up. But what if the problem isn’t just the workload—it’s the way things are being done?

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If your freight invoice bookkeeping processes feel overwhelming, here are five signs it’s time to rethink how you manage your books.

Freight brokers have long followed real-time accounting practices borrowed from other industries, meticulously tracking every single line item for each load. While this may be considered a best practice, it’s not well-suited to the high-volume nature of freight brokering—especially when factoring is part of the equation.

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For every brokered load, traditional accounting requires logging receivables, advances, reserves, carrier payments, and more—quickly adding up to thousands of entries. It’s time-consuming, tedious, and often unnecessary.

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There’s a better way: batch entry accounting. Instead of logging each transaction, you can group them at the entry type. For example, brokers can consolidate advances receivable from Denim into one entry. This simplifies the process and gives you a clearer view of cash flow. Batch processing saves time and reduces complexity.

Managing the financial side of a trucking company or brokerage can be overwhelming. If invoicing delays, reconciliation headaches, or frequent accounting errors are becoming the norm, your bookkeeping processes could be slowing you down. Outdated accounting methods create unnecessary roadblocks—but modernizing your approach can make a big difference.

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Batch entry, a proven method used in high-volume industries like retail and banking, can streamline your workflow and improve accuracy. Making the switch to batch entry doesn't need to be complicated. It can be done in four easy steps.

If you’re wondering how factoring companies determine their rates, don’t worry, you’re not alone. While almost 60% of freight brokers use freight factoring, the lack of transparency around how their rates are determined can be confusing and frustrating.
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While many factoring companies will try and hide this info, in this article we’ll break down some of the most important components used to calculate your base rate, like client payment terms, load volume, and carrier payment schedules. 

We believe every broker deserves complete clarity on how their factoring rates are determined, so they can choose the right partner based on their current business needs. 

Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful. For trucking companies, managing rising expenses—like fuel costs—can feel overwhelming. With federal fuel taxes at 24.4¢ per gallon of diesel and 18.4¢ per gallon of gasoline, plus state averages of 34.7¢ for diesel and 32.4¢ for gasoline (as of January 2024), every penny counts.

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The good news? Smart tax planning can help you keep more cash in your business. This guide breaks down six tax deductions that could make a real difference in your bottom line.

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Staying ahead in the freight industry means keeping up with the latest trends and technologies—and there’s no better way to do that than by attending industry conferences and events. 2025 is packed with can’t-miss opportunities for brokers and fleets to learn, connect, and grow. Here’s our curated list of top transportation and logistics events (and a few where you might even spot us!).

The freight industry is no stranger to challenges, but 2025 promises to be a year of steady transformation. From the rise of automation and AI to shifts in market dynamics and a renewed focus on collaboration, industry leaders are looking ahead with cautious optimism. 

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We’ve gathered insights from some of the most influential voices in freight to understand what lies ahead. Their predictions touch on technology, market trends, and strategies that will shape the future of the industry. Let’s explore what’s next for freight in 2025.

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Slow and steady growth expected

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"I don’t foresee massive overnight gains, but over the next 12-18 months, we’ll see incremental changes that add up," explains Chris Jolly, Founder of the Freight Coach. "Companies will likely invest in automation to stay lean and offer more competitive pricing."

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The 2025 freight market is shaping up to mirror 2024 with gradual rate increases rather than dramatic shifts. By adopting automation and focusing on operational efficiency, companies aim to manage costs while remaining competitive. This steady approach could pave the way for sustained growth over the long term.

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Flexibility will define success

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"The freight industry in 2025 won’t be about who’s the biggest—it’ll be about who’s the most adaptable," says Bharath "B" Krishnamoorthy, CEO of Denim. "Brokers and fleets that embrace flexibility in operations, financing, and partnerships will be the ones that thrive."

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As market dynamics continue to shift, companies that prioritize flexible solutions—whether through innovative technology, tailored financing options, or strategic collaborations—will stand out. Denim’s focus remains on empowering brokers and fleets to navigate challenges with agility, setting them up for sustained growth in an evolving industry.

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Fraud prevention is the key to a trust based freight market

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“Companies that fail to prioritize fraud prevention will not only face increased financial and reputational risks but will also struggle to compete in a market where trust is everything. Elimination fraud is the foundation that makes the rest of the broker’s tech stack effective. Without a tool like Highway, inefficiencies grow at an exponential rate throughout the rest of the tech stack. You can’t automate bad data,” says Michael Caney, Chief Commercial Officer at Highway.  

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Caney’s perspective underscores a critical point for the future of freight. Fraud prevention is more than a safeguard; it is the cornerstone of operational efficiency and trust in the market. Without addressing fraud at its core, brokers risk inefficiencies that ripple through their entire operation, undermining even the most advanced technology.

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AI takes the wheel: the rise of intelligent freight solutions

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"By 2025, artificial intelligence will be the backbone of freight optimization," says Dale Prax, President and CEO of Direct Expedite. "From predictive load matching to automating routine tasks, AI will redefine how freight moves by making every step of the supply chain smarter and faster."

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AI's integration will streamline operations, allowing brokers and fleets to operate more efficiently while reducing costs. Expect to see advanced machine learning models analyzing massive datasets in real-time, enabling better decision-making, mitigating risks, and driving unprecedented levels of productivity across the industry.

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Preparing for “carrier revenge” in a shifting freight market

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"As operational costs climb and carriers face unsustainable pressures, brokers must brace for a market shift that puts carriers in the driver’s seat," explains Alex Schick, CEO of Alliance Logistix. "Strengthening relationships with trusted partners is no longer optional—it’s essential to weather the coming changes."

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The freight market is on the cusp of a significant supply and demand shift. Rising trucking rates, coupled with strained carrier sustainability, could lead to a dynamic where carriers reclaim leverage in negotiations. Brokers who invest in long-term partnerships and adapt their strategies during this bid cycle will be better positioned to navigate these changes while remaining competitive.

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Mid-Sized 3PLs are poised to outpace industry giants

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"Smaller to mid-sized 3PLs are taking market share from the top 5-10 brokers because shippers want consistency," explains Chris Brewer, CEO of River City Logistics. "They want the same account manager handling their business, not a revolving door of reps at larger operations."

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Over the past two years, the shift in shipper priorities highlights the growing demand for reliable, personalized service. Mid-sized 3PLs, with their focus on consistency and strong client relationships, are increasingly outpacing larger brokers that struggle to deliver the same level of individualized care. As a result, these agile players are redefining the competitive dynamics of the freight industry.

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Freight costs set to rise amid uncertainty

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"Predicting the future is tricky with so many global variables at play, but one thing seems clear: US freight costs will rise in 2025," says Mike Hane, Director of Product Marketing, Transportation Management Solutions at Descartes. "Spot rates are already trending upward as consumer demand grows."

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While black swan events like geopolitical conflicts, natural disasters, or pandemics remain unpredictable, the freight market is already showing signs of increased costs. Factors like regulatory changes and shifting consumer demand could moderate these trends, but businesses should prepare for higher expenses as the industry navigates an evolving global landscape.

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Climbing out of the freight recession in 2025

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"I think we’re all optimistic that 2025 will be a climb out of the freight recession," shares Walter "Mitch" Mitchell, CEO at Tai Software. "It’s been a tough time for the industry, and a shift toward prosperity would be welcome by all."

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As the freight market transitions to recovery, technology will play a pivotal role. The continued maturity of AI in processes and workflows is set to enhance operations, delivering meaningful value to teams and driving efficiency across organizations. These advancements could help turn optimism into tangible growth in the year ahead.

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Rising costs ahead for fresh produce and tech

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"In 2025, we’ll see substantial cost increases for fresh produce and imported technology, with most of those costs being passed on to consumers," predicts Max Leach, Strategic Account Manager at Port TMS.

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Economic pressures and supply chain challenges are expected to drive up prices for key goods, particularly fresh produce and tech imports. These increases will ripple through the supply chain, ultimately impacting consumer spending and influencing market trends across industries. Preparing for these cost hikes will be essential for businesses and consumers alike.

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Optimistic growth and tech-driven efficiency in 2025

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"Barring any major geopolitical or economic disruptions, we’re cautiously optimistic about 4%-6% growth in trucking freight demand and revenue next year," says JJ Singh, CEO of EKA TMS.

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2025 is expected to bring significant advancements in AI and workflow automation, transforming carrier and broker operations and boosting back-office efficiency. Near real-time reporting and business intelligence tools will also become more widely adopted, improving decision-making across the board.

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The focus will be on three key priorities: providing customers with value to seize opportunities in an improving market, scaling investments for growth across business segments, and driving long-term returns for shareholders. These strategies position the industry for steady progress in the year ahead.

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Freight brokers going multi-product

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"Leading SMB freight brokers will introduce new products for carriers and shippers in 2025.  We’ve heard a bit of it this year and I think next year we will see SMB brokers expand beyond freight into offering carrier services, warehousing, financial products and more.  These SmartBrokers will be ahead of the pack." says Sean Smith, VP of Product and Client Services at Denim.

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Freight brokers build very powerful and expansive distribution channels to offer a number of solutions for carriers and shippers.  Especially as the market turns to the carriers favor, brokers who prioritize deepening these relationships will be set up for success.

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Policy shifts and consumer demand will shape freight recovery

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"I believe the freight market will recover significantly in 2025, with the first quarter showing the strongest activity," predicts Thomas Werdine, Founder of ThinkFreight. "This will be driven by potential policy changes, such as new tariffs on China, Mexico, and Canada, which could lead to a rush in imports as companies work to front-load inventory. The January 15 ILA strike deadline will also play a major role, causing a surge in freight volumes before the strike and creating bottlenecks afterward that will increase rates."

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Thomas’ prediction highlights a freight market ready for recovery but shaped by complex forces. Tariff changes and the looming ILA strike could create bottlenecks and rate surges, while consumer sentiment will be crucial in sustaining demand throughout the year.

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Set yourself up for success in 2025

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The freight industry might bring its share of surprises in 2025, but one thing is clear: steady cash flow and smart financial management are key to growth. Whether you’re looking to invest in automation, adjust to market shifts, or strengthen your operations, having a strong financial foundation is critical.

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Let’s make 2025 your best year yet. Get started with Denim today and see how our solutions can help your business thrive.

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The freight industry is no stranger to unpredictability. Even though some experts expected the market to rebound as we entered 2024, we’re instead seeing that volatility may be the new normal. The saying that “the only constant is change” holds true, especially for freight brokers and fleet owners. 

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Because of this volatility, financial flexibility is more important than ever. Without keeping your capital flexible, even the most efficient fleets or brokerages may struggle to keep up with the competition. The ability to adapt, optimize cash flow, and reduce costs is the key to survival in this dynamic environment. 

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Through our suite of flexible freight factoring solutions — including Selective Factoring, Flex Factoring, Express Factoring, and QuickPay — we offer freight brokers and fleets the tools they need to maintain control over their finances so they can respond quickly to changing conditions. Even if you haven’t considered factoring in the past, now might be the time. 

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Let’s look at the factoring solutions we provide in more detail. 

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Selective Factoring – empowering choice in a dynamic market

Selective Factoring allows freight brokers and fleets to choose which loads they want to factor, giving them the flexibility to manage cash flow on their own terms. 

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Unlike traditional freight factoring, where businesses are often forced to factor every load, Denim’s Selective Factoring provides the freedom to decide which loads to factor depending on what makes the most sense for your business.

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For example, a freight broker might choose to factor high-value or slow-paying loads to ensure immediate cash flow while managing the rest independently. This not only helps optimize cash flow but also enables brokerages to maintain independence and control over their financial strategy.

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The key benefit of Selective Factoring is its versatility. Brokers and fleets can use capital when they need it, without the pressure to factor every transaction. This balance of predictability and flexibility helps businesses stay agile, even in the face of market fluctuations.

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Flexible Factoring – Optimize Costs on Your Schedule

Denim’s Flexible Factoring goes far beyond just providing capital—it allows businesses to save significant money with the combination of adjusting payment schedules and shippers who pay fast.

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By choosing when to pay contractors or when to receive payments, brokers and fleets can benefit from discounted fees. The longer payments are delayed, the lower the fee, meaning costs can be reduced without sacrificing operational efficiency.

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Flexible Factoring is especially beneficial for companies that work with shippers who consistently pay faster than 30 days. With Flexible Factoring, the faster the payment is received, the lower the fee, allowing companies to save even more money while maintaining cash flow.

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For example, a broker may delay an advance to a contractor for a few days, choosing to lower their fees by strategically managing their cash flow. In addition, they might have shippers who pay earlier than expected, further reducing costs. Flexible Factoring provides unmatched flexibility, helping businesses optimize their capital use while reducing fees.

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Express Factoring – immediate access to capital

Sometimes, waiting for payments isn’t an option. Freight brokers and fleet owners often face immediate expenses, such as fuel costs, payroll, and maintenance, that need to be covered quickly. 

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Denim’s Express Factoring addresses this by providing access to funds within minutes of submitting a job. Unlike other freight broker factoring services that may have cut-off times or delays due to bank processing, Express Factoring provides near immediate funding.

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Maybe a broker needs to cover urgent operational expenses but is waiting for payment. With Express Factoring, they can submit their job and receive an advance almost instantly, without worrying about ACH windows or other delays. 

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This immediate access to capital can be a game-changer for brokerages facing tight deadlines or unexpected costs, ensuring that cash flow is never an obstacle when keeping their business running. 

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QuickPay – unlock a new revenue stream

Denim’s QuickPay service offers freight brokers a unique opportunity not only to expedite payments to carriers, but also generate additional income. QuickPay allows brokers to charge a fee for speeding up payments to carriers, and best of all, they can keep 100% of the fee.

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Implementing QuickPay creates a new revenue stream for brokers while providing carriers with the benefit of faster payments. A broker can charge a QuickPay fee to expedite a carrier’s payment, and the fee collected becomes an additional source of income for the broker. In a competitive market, QuickPay can help position brokers as a reliable partner who can provide timely payments when needed. This also helps strengthen carrier relationships. 

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By offering faster payment options to carriers, brokers can increase their earnings while providing a valuable service to their partners, strengthening relationships and driving long-term business success.

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Take control of your financial future with Denim

Denim’s flexible freight factoring solutions for trucking companies are designed with one goal in mind: to help freight brokers and fleet owners thrive in a constantly changing market. Each solution—Selective Factoring, Flex Factoring, Express Factoring, and QuickPay—offers factoring benefits that can be tailored to fit the unique needs of your business. Whether you need immediate capital, want to reduce costs, or are looking to create new revenue streams, Denim provides the tools to make it happen.

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In today’s unpredictable market, financial flexibility is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Discover how Denim’s flexible factoring solutions can support your business by scheduling a demo today. We’ll help you build a financial strategy that keeps you competitive, agile, and thriving, no matter the market conditions.

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