# The Journey from Brokerage to Trucking: Prioritizing Drivers and Strategic Connections

By Mike Bush · Published 2024-08-15 · Updated 2026-05-19 · Transportation on MarketScale
Canonical: https://www.marketscale.com/industries/transportation/the-journey-from-brokerage-to-trucking-prioritizing-drivers-and-strategic-connections
Creator hub: Hammer Down

> Logistics professionals discover why prioritizing workforce stability and industry relationships become critical when transitioning from brokerage to fleet oper

## Key points

- Transitioning from brokerage to trucking requires a fundamental shift in focus toward driver retention and workforce stability.
- Building strategic industry relationships is essential for sustaining fleet operations long-term.
- Understanding the operational differences between brokerage and asset-based trucking is key to a successful transition.

Block Field

The logistics industry is at a crossroads as professionals increasingly shift from brokerage models to owning and operating trucking companies. This transition, while filled with opportunities, also brings a host of challenges, from managing safety and compliance to handling the complexities of running a fleet. With the trucking industry facing a truck driver shortage, the stakes for getting it right have never been higher.

So, what does it really take to make this leap? How do you successfully navigate the steep learning curve involved in moving from brokerage to trucking, and what are the hidden challenges that many don’t anticipate until they're deep in the trenches?

On this episode of [*Hammer Down*](https://marketscale.com/shows/hammer-down/), host [Mike Bush](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbush/) sits down with [**Tristan Bordallo**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tristan-bordallo-a57860162/), founder and CEO of [**Iamfr8**](https://www.linkedin.com/company/iamfr8-inc/about/). With over 20 years of experience in logistics, Bordallo offers a unique perspective, having made the transition from a successful career in brokerage to building his own asset-based trucking company.

**Key Points of Conversation:**

- **The Shift from Brokerage to Trucking:** Bordallo shares insights into the learning curve of transitioning to asset ownership, highlighting the differences in responsibilities compared to a brokerage model.
- **Safety and Compliance:** The conversation delves into the critical importance of maintaining trucks and adhering to California’s stringent safety standards, which require 90-day inspections.
- **The Driver Experience:** Bordallo emphasizes the need to treat drivers with the same respect and care as pilots, recognizing their crucial role in the logistics chain and how this approach affects overall business success.

> Bordallo emphasizes the need to treat drivers with the same respect and care as pilots, recognizing their crucial role in the logistics chain and how this approach affects overall business success.

### About the Guest

**Tristan Bordallo** is the founder and CEO of **Iamfr8**, bringing over two decades of experience in the logistics industry. He has navigated the complexities of both brokerage and trucking operations, earning a reputation for his commitment to safety and driver well-being. Bordallo's leadership and hands-on approach have distinguished **Iamfr8** as a notable player in the trucking industry.

Tags: brokerage model, Iamfr8, safety and compliance, Tristan Bordallo, Trucking Industry

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