Truckers and Travelers

Hello, Fellow Truckers!  In Part 3 we are finishing up the topic of  how to get your own trucking authority.  We are covering the most frequently asked questions on trucking authority.  In this part we are answering the last 5 of 14 main questions.

10.  What is Intrastate Authority? 

Intrastate authority is the right granted by a state to commence for hire trucking operations within the borders of that specific state. If a load’s origin and destination are within the same state then intrastate authority may be required. This generally takes less time to acquire than the interstate authority as only one government agency is required to issue permits. Also a company engaged only in intrastate activities does not need to register with the IFTA or IRP.  In my 7/23/09 blog I covered the difference between Intrastate and Interstate authority.  If you get a chance, check it out!

11.  What states require special permits?

Four states have special permits that are required to operate within their borders. You can register for these permits upfront or acquire trip permits. The states are New York (HUT), Kentucky (KYU Number), New Mexico, & Oregon (File Number). Depending on your operations you should consider registering for some or all of these states as most have a low registration fee of $15 or less per truck.

12.  What is a New Entrant Safety Audit?

A New Entrant Safety Audit consists of a review of the carrier’s safety management system conducted by a State or Federal Auditor within the first 18 months of operation. The areas of review may include: Driver Qualifications, Driver Duty Status, Vehicle Maintenance, Accident Register, and testing requirements for Controlled Substances and Alcohol use. To make sure you pass your Safety Audit, consult a professional.  I highly recommend Clay Eppard of Fleet Safety, Inc.

13.  When can I expect a New Entrant Safety Audit?

Every new carrier will be audited during the first 18 months of operation (typically within 3-6 months after the carrier is granted their new entrant registration). The safety audits will mainly be conducted on-site at the carrier’s principal place of business. However, some safety audits may be conducted at other locations depending on the circumstances. To make sure you pass your Safety Audit, consult with Clay Eppard of Fleet Safety, Inc.

14.  What is a drug consortium? 

A drug consortium is a collection of drug testing facilities where a trucker can go to do their random drug tests.  Each consortium pulls the names of different drivers randomly.  When your name is drawn, you will receive a letter notifying you that you have a certain number of days to get to a drug testing facility in the consortium  to have the particular tests done.  They may ask you to do a urine test or a blood test or both.  You must get this done and put the results in your pro-rate book that contains your trucking authority paperwork that the DOT requires you carry on your truck.

This concludes the discussion of the most freqently asked questions on trucking authority.  I wish you success in your endeavors in this process.  Be safe out there!