2025 is already shaping up to be a turning point for freight brokers. The FMCSA has reopened its Broker Transparency rulemaking, and the DOT is ramping up enforcement against unlawful double brokering. At the same time, tougher identity-verification steps are reshaping how carriers get authority.

The message is clear: fraud prevention and transparency aren’t optional anymore - they’re the new baseline for doing business.

Why It’s Trending

Brokers and carriers alike are feeling the impact. Carriers must now verify their identity through government ID and live photo checks. Since these measures went live, approval rates for new carrier authority have been cut nearly in half. Fraudulent filings are getting stopped at the gate, but legitimate carriers also need to stay sharp and ready with documentation.

On the broker side, the transparency rule would require electronic records of every transaction and faster response times when carriers ask for details. For many, that means moving away from spreadsheets and manual file storage.

What This Means for Brokers, Carriers, and Shippers

• Brokers will need to prove compliance at every step. That means stronger onboarding, stricter recordkeeping, and fast access to data when carriers or regulators ask.

• Carriers gain from a fairer market, with fraudulent operators pushed out and reputable ones standing out.

• Shippers benefit from working with brokers who use verified carriers and can back up their process with clean records.

Trust and transparency are becoming a competitive advantage.

How WaveTMS Helps You Stay Ahead

WaveTMS was built for exactly this moment. Our platform takes the heavy lifting out of compliance with:

• KYC-style carrier onboarding – verify MC/DOT authority, insurance, and safety data instantly.

• Audit-ready records – every touchpoint and document is logged, so you’re always prepared.

• Fraud detection – real-time monitoring flags suspicious changes in carrier profiles, from name changes to insurance lapses.

• Transparency on demand – quickly pull up freight charges, fees, and documents to share when needed.

By automating what regulators now expect, WaveTMS helps brokers protect their business, carriers prove their credibility, and shippers gain confidence in the partners moving their freight.

The Bottom Line

FMCSA’s fraud crackdown is more than a headline - it’s a shift in how the industry operates. The winners will be those who embrace compliance, transparency, and automation. With WaveTMS, you can stay compliant, reduce risk, and keep freight moving with confidence → Request a free trial.