Final answer:
The best way to protect yourself if a shipper refuses to sign a broker-shipper contract is to seek legal advice to understand your rights and the best actions to take. Ignoring the situation could lead to risks, and while finding a new shipper or canceling the contract are options, they should be considered after legal consultation.
Step-by-step explanation:
If your shipper refuses to sign your broker-shipper contract, the best way to protect yourself would be to seek legal advice. This is because a legal expert will be able to review the contract and provide guidance on your rights and the best course of action to take in this situation. It's important to address this issue promptly and not ignore it, as doing so could lead to legal and financial risks for your business. While finding a new shipper might be necessary eventually, it is recommended to protect your interests first by consulting with a legal professional. Canceling the contract could be an option, but this should come after an expert evaluation to protect yourself from any potential consequences.