5 MC/DOT Compliance ‘Myths’


As uShip moves toward requiring transporters to obtain proper motor carrier authority and DOT numbers through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA), several incorrect assumptions have emerged.

uShip has spoken directly to the FMCSA to clarify these misperceptions around required authority, exemptions, and privacy. Want to get fully FMCSA compliant? Get started HERE or contact your uShip Carrier Success team.

MYTH 1:

“My vehicle is under 10,000 lbs, so I don’t need a motor carrier number.”

TRUTH: All carriers operating for-hire across state lines are required to have an MC number.

MYTH 1:

“My vehicle is under 10,000 lbs, so I don’t need a motor carrier number.”

TRUTH: All carriers operating for-hire across state lines are required to have an MC number.

MYTH 2:

“I have an MC number, but sharing it means that anyone could access my personal information.”

TRUTH: MC numbers are public information; anyone can already find the information on file with the FMCSA.

MYTH 2:

“I have an MC number, but sharing it means that anyone could access my personal information.”

TRUTH: MC numbers are public information; anyone can already find the information on file with the FMCSA.

MYTH 3:

“The FMCSA has said there is a backlog of applicants and to not bother applying right now.”

TRUTH: Applications are being processed and completed in the usual 20-25 business day timeframe they’ve always been.

MYTH 3:

“The FMCSA has said there is a backlog of applicants and to not bother applying right now.”

TRUTH: Applications are being processed and completed in the usual 20-25 business day timeframe they’ve always been.

MYTH 4:

“I’m only hauling furniture, so I’m exempt and don’t need an MC number.”

TRUTH: Household Goods are a regulated commodity and therefore require an MC number to haul.

MYTH 4:

“I’m only hauling furniture, so I’m exempt and don’t need an MC number.”

TRUTH: Household Goods are a regulated commodity and therefore require an MC number to haul.

MYTH 5:

“I have enough liability insurance on my truck so I’m good to go.”

TRUTH: Liability insurance on your vehicle won’t be enough. The FMCSA requires BI/PD (Bodily Injury and Property Damage) insurance as part of its compliance standard.

MYTH 5:

“I have enough liability insurance on my truck so I’m good to go.”

TRUTH: Liability insurance on your vehicle won’t be enough. The FMCSA requires BI/PD (Bodily Injury and Property Damage) insurance as part of its compliance standard.

Want to get fully FMCSA compliant?