The DOT and FMCSA are in charge of overseeing America's highway system. If your commercial trucking firm is found to be in breach of any DOT compliance or safety regulations, you may face more than just a significant penalty or punishment. Failing to meet these criteria might cost drivers, clients, automobiles, or your entire business.
Fremont, CA: DOT compliance and safety standards are always changing and may vary by region. Therefore, it is critical to stay current on these rules and regulations. This can help you understand which requirements apply to your commercial transportation fleet.
Continue reading to guarantee your commercial transportation company is up to speed on the most recent commercial trucking DOT compliance and safety laws.
DOT Registration
Commercial transportation enterprises transporting goods require a DOT registration or motor carrier number. In some cases, both may be necessary.
You must appropriately represent the business on your DOT registration application form to ensure your application is accepted.
Motor Carrier Operating Authority
Commercial motor carriers based in the United States that transport foreign freight and household products must be authorized for interstate travel. This authorization must be in place before any of their drivers can legally cross federal lines.
This also dictates the type of service your firm can provide, the types of freight you can transport, and the level of insurance you must have. Motor Carrier Operating Authority applications must be renewed every two years.
Unified Carrier Registration
Any motor carrier with a DOT number is required to have a Unified Carrier Registration. When you run commercial cars in interstate commerce, your company must register with a participating location, which is most likely where you live.
Any business that transfers drivers across federal lines must pay the annual tax requirement under UCR 49 USC 14505a. The tax amount is calculated based on your fleet size, including for-hire, private, and excluded carriers. Noncompliance with the UCR is punishable by fines and penalties.
DOT Physicals
According to federal regulation 49 CFR Part 391, commercial drivers operating a specified class of vehicles must get a DOT physical examination performed by a licensed medical professional before driving any vehicle. The DOT physical must be renewed every 24 months.
DOT Numbers
A DOT number is a unique identity used during audits, accident investigations, DOT compliance checks, and inspections to ensure that your commercial transportation organization operates safely.
Biennial Updating
Commercial transportation companies must update their registration information every two years so that the FMCSA can review their safety compliance ranking.
If your information is not up to date, your company risks obtaining a deactivation number from the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and further fines and penalties.
