Here is why you should get an MC number:

Get a competitive edge; an MC number can open doors with reputable carriers that new businesses may not have access to.

An MC number can allow you to bid on larger freight contracts, giving your business more potential for growth.

Your customers can take your business more seriously when they know you are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and staying up to date on regulations.

You can also be able to get better insurance coverage for your vehicles and cargo, as well as lower premiums. This can save your business money in the long run.

Additional paperwork requirements can become more accessible to deal with since you're already registered and compliant with FMCSA regulations.

What Does MC Authority Mean?

The FMCSA assigns a Motor Carrier (MC) number to identify carriers providing services across state lines and transporting regulated commodities. Learn more about Starting a Trucking Company. This unique identifier is also called an operating or trucking authority. An MC number is necessary for any carrier wanting to conduct interstate commerce business. It's an essential step for those who want to comply with government regulations and operate safely on the nation's roads and highways.

Is an MC Number the Same as a USDOT Number?

No. They re two different types of registration with the FMCSA. When Do I Need an MC Number? Every business that operates commercial vehicles transporting passengers or cargo in interstate commerce must obtain a USDOT number.


This number is unique to each company and is used for various purposes, including obtaining safety permits for hazardous material transportation, conducting safety audits, performing compliance reviews, participating in crash investigations, and undergoing safety inspections. Additionally, your USDOT number is necessary for you to acquire your MC authority. Do you Want to know the BOC-3 Filing? Therefore, you must take steps to obtain yours as soon as possible.

What Is a Motor Carrier of Property (Except Household Goods)?

If you're looking to become a for-hire carrier, Motor Carrier (MC) authority is the most common type of authorization needed. Get an MC Number. It allows you to transport regulated commodities in the public sector. While securing cargo insurance with this form of interstate operating authority is not compulsory, you must present proof of liability for damage caused to people and property when filing with the FMCSA.

What Is a Motor Carrier of Household Goods (Moving Companies)?

Carriers hoping to transport only household goods must obtain this specific type of MC authority. FMCSA MC Number Lookup: How To Verify Your Motor Carrier Number. To meet the FMCSA's requirements, you must submit proof of liability and cargo insurance. Keep in mind that this includes items bought from a factory or store to use them in a home, and is done at the request of the customer paying for the transportation charges. Learn more about Biennial Update. Applying for this authority will ensure you comply with government regulations.


Determining your position in the transportation sector is crucial for upholding compliance with Motor Carrier (MC) authority. Do you want to know Dot Authority? The two most typical forms of MC authorization are commonly sought after. Yet, additional types cover brokers and foreign cargo shipments commencing from or headed toward a foreign country. Establishing your role in this industry is essential for abiding by standards set by MC authority.

Can I Receive Interstate Operating Authority Through an MC Number?

Yes, absolutely. Companies that transport passengers and commodities across state lines for a fee must obtain an MC and DOT numbers. Read more about the Broker Freight Package. This applies whether the payment is direct or indirect and when arrangements are made for others to transport the goods. Interstate Operating Authority (MC number) and a DOT number are required for this purpose.


Multiple operating authorities from the FMCSA are sometimes necessary for companies to support their planned operations. Depending on the authority granted, it's typically identified as an “MC,” “FF,” or “MX” number. It's essential to keep in mind that your operating authority determines the type of operation you're permitted to run, and what kinds of cargo you can carry. Learn more about DOT Number Deactivation. Therefore, it's essential to understand each of these requirements before applying for FMCSA operating authority.

Do I Need To Create a Business Entity Before Getting MC Authority?

Yes! Before submitting your application for Motor Carrier (MC) authority, you must ensure that you have a trucking business plan that meets specific criteria. Do you want to know Broker Mover Package information? The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will evaluate your plan on its cargo, operation, and company type before approving your request. Be sure to review the FMCSA application in detail so that you can meet all of the necessary requirements. Mastering DOT MC Number Lookup. Doing this research ahead of time will help make the approval process easier and faster.


Secure your Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Additionally, you must get pre-approval for liability and cargo insurance before applying for Motor Carrier authority. Do you want to know the CA Number? Otherwise, you could face being denied insurance coverage and being unable to complete the application process, thus wasting both your time and money. Getting Your MC Number: The Essential Guide. Avoid this by ensuring you can be insured before beginning.