When someone is asking how do they get their authority they are asking more than how to file with the FMCSA to get their US DOT # and Motor Carrier (MC) #. What they are really asking about is how do they go about starting a trucking company.

There are a lot of questions that most do not even know to ask. Depending on the state you live in can depend on what is required. California and Texas are great examples of states that required additional registration. Some states have additional road taxes while Oregon does not participate in IFTA.

There are a couple areas that pain us when we see people asking about how to get their authority. First is the companies that people pay for this trusting that they are the experts and will not steer them wrong. Many of these companies are just having you fill out a form then a clerk is completing the paperwork who may not know about Texas DMV numbers, KYU, or California MPC.

The other area is when someone says “just for to the FMCSA, pay $300, and it is easy.” Not a single question about what they are looking to do, where do they live, what are they planning on hauling, what type of equipment. And depending on those answers, you have another layer of questions.

It is no wonder that over 30% of new authorities are filed incorrectly.

In this video, Lauren Hood talks about all the steps that it takes to start and run a trucking company.

You find more videos on trucking business subjects at the TruckingMBA Youtube channel and more information at www.VLocityGroup.com .