Freight Collections

Freight collections is a specialized area of transportation law focused on recovering unpaid freight invoices and resolving payment disputes within the logistics industry. Carriers, owner-operators, freight brokers, and logistics companies regularly encounter delayed payments, non-paying brokers, and disputed freight charges, all issues that can quickly disrupt cash flow and day-to-day operations. Our Freight Collections practice is focused on helping transportation companies recover what they are owed while protecting their legal and commercial interests.

Unpaid freight invoices are rarely straightforward

These matters often involve multiple parties, layered contractual relationships, and regulatory considerations under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Determining liability requires careful review of rate confirmations, bills of lading, proof of delivery, and the agreements governing the transaction. We approach each matter with a practical, legally grounded strategy designed to identify the responsible parties and pursue recovery as efficiently as possible.

Unpaid Freight Invoice Recovery

Recovering unpaid freight invoices is the foundation of our practice. We represent carriers and logistics companies in enforcing payment obligations through demand letters, negotiated resolutions, and, when necessary, litigation. By focusing on documentation and legal leverage early in the process, we work to resolve disputes efficiently while preserving our clients’ business relationships where possible.

Freight Broker Bond Claims
(BMC-84 & BMC-85)

When a freight broker fails to pay, federal law requires the broker to maintain a surety bond or trust fund (BMC-84 or BMC-85). We assist clients in preparing and filing bond claims to recover unpaid freight charges. Because bond proceeds are limited and often subject to competing claims, timing and accuracy are critical. We guide clients through this process to maximize recovery and avoid procedural pitfalls.

Transportation Debt Collection

In addition to single-invoice disputes, we assist clients with broader transportation debt collection matters involving multiple shipments or ongoing non-payment. This may include coordinated demand efforts, settlement negotiations, or legal action where appropriate. Our goal is to provide a structured approach to recovering outstanding receivables while minimizing disruption to business operations.

Broker and Shipper Insolvency Collections

When a broker or shipper becomes insolvent or files for bankruptcy, recovering unpaid freight charges becomes more complex. We advise clients on preserving claims, navigating creditor priorities, and pursuing recovery through available legal channels. Early action is often essential in these matters, particularly where assets are limited or multiple creditors are involved.

FMCSA Compliance and Payment Recovery

FMCSA regulations play a significant role in freight payment disputes. We counsel clients on regulatory compliance issues that affect payment recovery, including broker obligations and carrier protections. A clear understanding of these regulations can strengthen a client’s legal position and reduce the risk of future disputes.

Strategic Legal Solutions for Unpaid Freight Invoices

Our Freight Collections practice is focused on practical results and solutions. Whether pursuing unpaid freight invoices, filing broker bond claims, or addressing complex liability issues, we work to recover funds efficiently while protecting our clients’ broader business interests. With experience in both transportation law and the realities of the logistics industry, we provide clients with a clear and effective path toward recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is freight collections?

Freight collections refers to the legal process of recovering unpaid freight invoices from brokers, shippers, or other responsible parties in the transportation industry.

How do I recover unpaid freight invoices?

Recovery typically begins with verifying documentation and making formal payment demands. If those efforts are unsuccessful, legal options may include bond claims, litigation, or other enforcement actions, depending on the circumstances.

Who is responsible for unpaid freight charges?

Responsibility depends on the contractual relationships involved and may include the broker, shipper, consignee, or more than one party.

What is a freight broker bond claim?

A freight broker bond claim is a claim filed against a broker’s BMC-84 or BMC-85 bond to recover unpaid freight charges when the broker fails to pay.

What happens if a freight broker does not pay?

Available remedies may include demand letters, bond claims, and legal action. Acting promptly is important, particularly where multiple claims may be made against the same bond.

Can I recover freight charges if a company goes out of business?

In some cases, yes. Recovery options may include bond claims or participation in bankruptcy proceedings, depending on the facts.

How does FMCSA compliance affect payment disputes?

FMCSA regulations govern broker and carrier obligations. Understanding these rules can strengthen a claim and improve the likelihood of recovery.

When should I hire a freight collections attorney?

You should consider legal counsel when payment is significantly overdue, a dispute arises, or the responsible party is unresponsive or financially unstable.

Can multiple unpaid invoices be handled together?

Yes. In many situations, multiple invoices can be addressed in a coordinated manner to improve efficiency and reduce recovery time.

How can I reduce the risk of unpaid freight invoices?

Best practices include vetting brokers, maintaining clear documentation, monitoring payment timelines, and addressing issues promptly when they arise.
Contact Freight Collection Solutions today

Freight Collections Articles

Other Practice Areas

Double Brokering & Fraudulent Freight Activity

Double brokering disputes can create significant financial and operational exposure throughout the supply chain. We help clients investigate fraudulent activity, identify responsible parties, and pursue recovery through strategic legal action and industry-specific documentation analysis.

Learn More

Factoring & Payment Disputes

Transportation payment disputes often involve complex relationships between carriers, brokers, shippers, and factoring companies. We assist clients in resolving factoring conflicts, disputed payments, payment redirection issues, and competing claims involving freight receivables.

Learn More

Transportation & Logistics Litigation

When disputes escalate beyond collections, we represent clients in transportation-related litigation involving breach of contract, cargo liability, service disputes, and other commercial conflicts affecting logistics operations. Our approach remains focused on practical business solutions and efficient resolution whenever possible.

Learn More

Would highly recommend if you ever have trouble collecting payment. The team consist of great experienced attorneys, and awesome staff. Their expertise and support was invaluable, especially since this was our first time having a situation where we were unable to collect from a customer. They handled all aspects of litigation including recovering the final judgement.
— Ryan Martinez