Getting a new carrier on the road involves several federal and state steps, and some of them must happen in order. This checklist covers the typical path for an interstate, for-hire property carrier.
Register with FMCSA
- Obtain a USDOT number and apply for for-hire operating authority, which issues an MC number
- File a BOC-3 designating process agents in each state
- Have your insurer file proof of the required liability coverage with FMCSA
Authority becomes active only after the insurance and BOC-3 filings are on record and any protest period has passed.
Complete the annual and state registrations
- Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) for the current year
- IRP apportioned plates and IFTA credentials, if your vehicles qualify and you operate in multiple jurisdictions
- Form 2290 heavy vehicle use tax for qualifying vehicles
Set up your safety programs
- A drug and alcohol testing program, with registration in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse
- Driver qualification files for every driver
- Hours-of-service compliance, typically with an ELD
- Vehicle inspection and maintenance records
Prepare for the new entrant safety audit
New carriers enter an FMCSA monitoring period that includes a safety audit. Organized files for drivers, vehicles, hours of service and drug and alcohol testing make that audit far smoother.
Get the business side ready
- A business bank account, W-9 and certificate of insurance ready for broker setup packets
- An invoicing process that sends invoices with BOL and POD the day a load delivers
- A calendar of every renewal and filing date
This article is general information, not legal, tax or regulatory advice. Rules change; confirm current requirements with the responsible agency or a licensed professional.
