Running an independent travel agency is an exciting journey filled with growth opportunities—and one of the smartest ways to expand your reach is by building a team of sub-agents, sometimes called independent contractors. Operating under your own TRUE accreditation and understanding how to structure these relationships professionally is key to long-term success.
Let’s explore what sub-agents are, what they can and can’t do, how to manage them under your TRUE accreditation, and why having written contracts is non-negotiable.
What Is a Sub-Agent in the Travel Industry?
A sub-agent is an independent travel professional who works under another agency’s accreditation, such as your TRUE number. They sell travel but are not employees — they’re typically independent contractors responsible for managing their own clients, bookings, and commissions.
In short, they operate as entrepreneurs within your agency framework.
Key Characteristics of a Sub-Agent:
- Operates under your agency’s TRUE accreditation
- Sells travel services and earns commissions
- Manages their own clients and business operations
- Works independently but must follow agency policies
- Does not hold their own accreditation
Responsibilities of a Sub-Agent
While sub-agents enjoy a great deal of autonomy, they also carry certain professional and ethical responsibilities.
Primary Responsibilities:
Client Management – Handling inquiries, quotes, and bookings directly with their clients.
Sales and Revenue Generation – Promoting travel products that align with your agency’s standards.
Record Keeping – Maintaining accurate client records, itineraries, and payment documentation.
Compliance – Following your agency’s operational guidelines and industry regulations.
Professional Development – Continuing education through supplier trainings and industry certifications.
Sub-Agents Are Not Responsible For:
- Maintaining or renewing your agency’s TRUE accreditation
- Handling supplier payments directly unless authorized
- Managing the agency’s accounting or business finances
- Liability for other sub-agents’ actions
- Business taxes or filings of the host agency
Essentially, sub-agents are responsible for their clients and ethical conduct, but not for the legal or financial management of the host agency itself.
Responsibilities of the Independent Agency Owner
As an independent agency owner, you’re not just a travel advisor—you’re a business leader. When you bring sub-agents under your TRUE accreditation, your role shifts from solo seller to mentor and administrator.
Your Main Duties Include:
- Providing Access: Allow sub-agents to book travel under your TRUE accreditation.
- Oversight: Ensure all sub-agents follow compliance, ethical, and branding standards.
- Commission Distribution: Manage and distribute commissions accurately and on time.
- Training and Support: Offer tools, education, and mentorship to help sub-agents succeed.
- Legal Safeguarding: Protect your agency with clear contracts and operational policies.
Why Contracts Are Essential for Sub-Agents
The foundation of every professional relationship should be a contract—especially when sub-agents are involved. Without one, misunderstandings about commission splits, client ownership, and responsibilities can lead to disputes or even lost revenue.
What to Include in a Sub-Agent Contract:
1. Commission Structure: Clearly outline the percentage split, payout timeline, and qualifying criteria.
2. Client Ownership: Define who owns the client relationship—important for continuity and trust.
3. Confidentiality Clause: Protect sensitive business data and client information.
4. Compliance Requirements: Specify that sub-agents must adhere to travel laws, supplier policies, and your agency standards.
5. Termination Terms: Outline the process and obligations if the relationship ends.
6. Brand and Marketing Use: Clarify how the sub-agent can use your agency’s name, logo, or accreditation in promotions.
A well-written contract protects both sides and helps maintain professionalism as your agency grows. Consider having your contract reviewed by a business attorney who specializes in travel industry agreements.
Operating Under Your TRUE Accreditation
The TRUE accreditation allows independent travel advisors to operate as accredited agencies, recognized by global suppliers. As a TRUE-accredited agency owner, you can have sub-agents work under your TRUEnumber, giving them access to the same booking privileges, commissions, and supplier relationships—without them needing to get their own accreditation.
Key Benefits of TRUE Accreditation:
- Full control over your agency and branding
- Ability to operate independently from host agencies
- Direct supplier commissions
- Flexibility to onboard sub-agents or contractors
- Recognition by global travel suppliers
And here’s the best part: TRUE advisors can add up to 25 sub-agents at no extra cost.
That means you can grow your team, mentor new advisors, and scale your revenue—without additional fees eating into your profits.
This structure makes TRUE the most advisor-friendly accreditations for those looking to build a small or mid-size team of professionals under one umbrella.
How to Grow a Successful Sub-Agent Network
Building a thriving team of sub-agents takes strategy and leadership. Here are a few tips to grow your agency the right way:
1. Recruit Passionate Advisors: Choose people who share your business values and client care standards.
2. Provide Training: Offer access to supplier webinars, certification programs, and mentorship.
3. Set Clear Expectations: Communicate commission structures, deadlines, and professional standards upfront.
4. Create a Team Culture: Even though sub-agents are independent, foster community through team meetings and online groups.
5. Track Performance: Use CRM tools to monitor sales, commission payouts, and client satisfaction.
FAQs: Sub-Agents and Independent Travel Agencies
1. What’s the difference between a sub-agent and an independent travel advisor?
A sub-agent works under your agency’s TRUE accreditation , while an independent advisor holds their own accreditation and operates as a standalone business.
2. Can a sub-agent use their own branding?
Yes, as long as it’s allowed by their contract. Some agencies permit co-branding; others require use of the main agency’s brand.
3. How do commissions work between agency owners and sub-agents?
Commissions are typically split based on pre-agreed percentages. The accredited agency receives the supplier payment, then distributes the sub-agent’s portion.
4. Are sub-agents considered employees?
No. Sub-agents are independent contractors, not employees. They handle their own taxes and expenses.
5. What legal protections should I have as a host agency?
Always have a signed contract, professional liability insurance, and clear written policies for operations and commissions.
6. How many sub-agents can I add under my TRUE accreditation?
TRUE advisors can add up to 25 sub-agents at no additional charge, making it an affordable and scalable option for growth.
Growing your travel business with sub-agents can be one of the most rewarding steps you take as an agency owner. It allows you to scale, diversify your offerings, and mentor upcoming advisors—while maintaining control under your TRUE accreditation.
Just remember: clear contracts, consistent communication, and compliance are the foundation of long-term success. With TRUE, you can confidently expand your team—adding up to 25 sub-agents for free—and take your travel agency to new heights.
Discover more expert insights and practical strategies for growing your travel business at Travel Industry Insights– your source for trends, trips, and industry updates.