Truckers and Travelers
Trucking Information Resource
Hello, Fellow Truckers! In part 1 I discussed the first 5 main questions on trucking authority. In part 2 we will cover the next 4 questions listed below.
6. How much does it cost to get trucking authority?
The most affordable way to get trucking authority is to do it yourself. The MC Number is $300 to begin the process. The DOT Number is free to obtain. If you need a Hazardous Materials Permit this is also $300. Additional costs will come with the base truck and trailer plates or UCRA (UCR), IRP, truck and trailer insurance, IFTA, medical insurance, BOC-3 Process Agent, and the DOT physical, drug testing and drug consortium. All are costs that are doable with the right load pricing structure you put in place in your successful trucking business.
7. what is UCRA?
The Unified Carrier Registration Agreement states that all motor carriers, regulated, exempt and private as well as interstate brokers, Freight Forwarders and leasing companies are subject to the fees under the UCRA. Fees are calculated per company based on the number of commercial motor vehicles it operates. Commercial motor vehicles include the total number of trucks, trailers and power units operated by the company. The table below contains the fee schedule that a company would be subject to based on their fleet size:
| Fleet Size | Fee |
|---|---|
| 0-2 | $39 |
| 3-5 | $116 |
| 6-20 | $231 |
| 21-100 | $806 |
| 101-1000 | $3840 |
| over 1000 | $37500 |
8. What is IRP?
The IRP stands for International Registration Plan. This covers the apportioned tags for your tractor. The contiguous 48 states plus Canadian Provinces participate in the program. You must register with your base state and select the states that you wish to operate in the current or coming year. This must be renewed annually and has a prorated annual fee. Only vehicles over 26,000 Gross Vehicle Weight participate in the program. The annual fee range is $800 – $2500.
9. What is IFTA?
IFTA stands for International Fuel Tax Agreement. It is a means to pay fuel taxes to the different participating states and provinces by registering and filing quarterly returns with your base state. Only the contiguous 48 states, plus Canadian Provinces and vehicles over 26,000 Gross Vehicle Weight participate in this program. Registration for the program is generally free but some states may charge a registration and decal fee that usually costs under $30.
In Part 3 we will finish up the lat 5 questions that cover trucking authority. Be safe out there!