Truckers and Travelers

Hello, Fellow Truckers!  Today I would like to do a three part series about Trucking Authority.  In this series I will do a FAQ on trucking authority.  The first five questions will be listed here, with two more blogs about the other 14 main trucking authority questions.

1.  What is an MC Number?

An MC number is issued by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). It grants the right to commence operations in interstate commerce in the transportation industry. There are several factors involved in obtaining an MC number including a USDOT number, BOC 3 Process Agents, and insurance.

2.  What is a USDOT Number?

 A USDOT number is issued by the US Department of Transportation. It tracks all your company’s information with the different Federal and State Agencies. A USDOT number does not constitute authority to operate in interstate commerce.

3.  What is a BOC-3 Process Agents?

A process agent is someone who may be serviced with court papers in any proceeding brought against a motor carrier. In order to obtain your authority this requirement must be met.

4.  How much insurance do I need?

The Federal Minimums for insurance coverage is: $750,000 Liability and $5,000 Cargo. However, the industry standard and recommended coverage is $1,000,000 Liability and $100,000 Cargo coverage.

5.  How long does it take to get trucking authority?

It generally takes a carrier 5 to 7 weeks to obtain all the authority and permits required to operate in Interstate Commerce. There are 2 parts to the process: federal and state. The federal portion generally takes 16 business days to complete and then state permits can take an additional 2 weeks after the federal portion is complete.

These are the first 5 of 13 main questions asked by truckers asking how to get trucking authority.  In part 2 I’ll be asking the next 4 questions:  How much does it cost to get trucking authority?;   What is UCRA?;  What is IRP?; and what is IFTA?.  The REST of the story will be finished in part 3 when I answer the following 5 questions:  What is intrastate authority?;  What states require special permits?;  What is a New Entrant Safety Audit? When can I expect a New Entrant Safety Audit?; What is a drug consortium?. 

If you are serious about starting a trucking business and getting your own authority, then these questions will help you get started.  If you want to be successful you have to refuse to listen to people who want to rain on your parade.  They are usually the ones that never go far in life.  Those with vision and who are successful themselves are the ones to listen to and hang out with.  I believe you can do it!   Be safe out there!