In this lesson
- Carriers need a USDOT number, operating authority (still called an MC number in 2026), a BOC-3 process agent designation and liability insurance filed with FMCSA before they can haul regulated freight for hire across state lines.
- The federal liability minimum for general freight in vehicles over 10,000 lb GVWR is $750,000, but most brokers expect $1,000,000 auto liability and $100,000 cargo. Cargo is not a federal filing for general freight.
- Always verify a carrier yourself on FMCSA systems (SAFER, Licensing and Insurance, and the new Motus registration system) before you send a single load. Never accept a screenshot or a PDF as proof.
- A certificate of insurance is a snapshot, not a guarantee. Read it field by field and call the agent to confirm it is still in force.
- Rules, fees and systems changed heavily in 2025 and 2026. Every figure here was checked in October 2026. Confirm it on fmcsa.dot.gov before you rely on it.
This lesson is part of the full course
Lesson 1 is free. Lesson 4 and the rest of the 21-lesson course (about 37 hours), the final exam, the verifiable certificate and the bonus templates unlock with the full course.
- All 21 lessons with worked examples, case studies and exercises
- Final exam and a certificate anyone can verify with a QR code
- Bonus: profit calculator, load and payment tracker, call and email scripts
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Educational material only. It is not legal, tax or financial advice, and nothing here promises any level of income. Regulations, fees and market conditions change, so confirm current requirements with FMCSA and a qualified professional.