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Interstate Trucking Authority

Looking to start a trucking business that will need to cross state lines? Then this is the authority you will need to transport across the state line.

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There are two types of authorities at the federal level for motor carriers who transport freight. You have a Common & Contract authority. Asking yourself what the difference is.

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Common Interstate Authority- As a freight hauler who will offer their services to the general public or transport commodities like beer, alcohol, or want to offer your services to the government. This authority will be required in most cases.

Under Common Authority you will need to file these pre-license requirements with the FMCSA.

  • Designation of Process Agent (BOC-3)

  • BMC-91x Public liability insurance (bodily injury/property damage/environmental restoration) Industry Standard 1 million.

  • BMC-34 Cargo insurance--$5,000 per vehicle Industry Standard 100k

These must be on file with the FMCSA and pass a 10-day protest period. I like to say 21-day protest period because this is about how long it will take for your authority to become granted.

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Contract Interstate Authority- As a freight hauler who will do business under contract with shippers and some freight brokers and transport general freight. This authority will most likely be what you will need.

Under Common Authority you will need to file these pre-license requirements with the FMCSA.

  • Designation of Process Agent (BOC-3)

  • BMC-91x Public liability insurance (bodily injury/property damage/environmental restoration) Industry Standard 1 million.

These must be on file with the FMCSA and pass a 10-day protest period. I like to say 21-day protest period because this is about how long it will take for your authority to become granted.

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Our recommendation for the solution is not to limit your business to one authority or the other. The large motor carriers who haul general freight obtain both authorities. This will only set you back by another $300.

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Check out what package deal down below will work for your business.