FMCSA may phase out MC Numbers, requiring all carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders to use USDOT Numbers exclusively.
What Are MC Numbers?
MC Numbers, or Motor Carrier Docket Numbers, are issued by FMCSA to identify for-hire carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders. These numbers have been a key part of the transportation industry for years, as they are used to differentiate different transportation service providers.
Unlike USDOT Numbers, which track safety compliance, MC Numbers have been used to grant operating authority. However, FMCSA is considering eliminating MC Numbers in favor of a single USDOT-based system. This shift could simplify processes but also bring changes for businesses in the industry.
If the proposal is approved, all carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders will operate under their USDOT Numbers. Understanding this change is crucial for staying compliant.
Why Is FMCSA Eliminating MC Numbers?
FMCSA wants to streamline the registration process. Right now, businesses must manage both motor carrier docket numbers and USDOT Numbers, creating unnecessary complexity.
By using only USDOT Numbers, FMCSA aims to reduce fraud, eliminate duplicate records, and improve regulatory oversight. MC Numbers were never legally required, and modern regulations make them less relevant.
Under the new system, FMCSA’s Unified Registration System (URS) will track all authority and safety records under a single USDOT Number. This shift will improve transparency and compliance tracking.
How Will This Change Affect You?
If MC Numbers are eliminated, different groups in the industry will need to adjust.
For Motor Carriers: Carriers will no longer need MC Numbers for interstate operations. Instead, all safety and authority records will be linked to their USDOT Number. Carriers should update any documents that reference Motor Carrier Numbers.
For Brokers and Freight Forwarders: Brokers and freight forwarders currently use MC Numbers for operating authority. Moving forward, they will receive & use their USDOT Numbers instead. Compliance requirements may change as FMCSA strengthens fraud prevention measures. It is worth confirming that TLI already has both an MC # & a DOT #. So there will be no disruption for shippers working with TLI.
For Shippers and Customers: Shippers who use MC Numbers for carrier verification will need to rely on USDOT Numbers instead. This is critical for those managing their carrier vetting themselves. They must adjust their vetting processes and check FMCSA’s SAFER system for updated carrier information. This vetting practice is critical for risk mitigation, particularly in the event of a problem such as fraud or a fatality. If you would like to learn about how TLI vets carriers, please let us know!
Will Existing MC Numbers Be Replaced?
No, existing MC Numbers will not be replaced with USDOT Numbers. Instead, FMCSA may phase out MC Numbers gradually.
Under MAP-21 regulations, all FMCSA-regulated entities must have a USDOT Number. Since Motor Carrier Numbers were used primarily for tracking authority rather than identifying companies, FMCSA believes they are no longer necessary.
If this change takes effect, USDOT Numbers will have suffixes to indicate different types of operating authority, making Motor Carrier Numbers redundant.
What About Safety Registration?
A USDOT Number alone does not guarantee safety registration. Safety registration is a separate requirement for companies operating commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce.
Before issuing safety registration, FMCSA ensures that the applicant can comply with regulations and is not affiliated with unsafe operators. All safety permits, operating authorities, and compliance records will be linked to a company’s USDOT Number.
This change means that businesses must maintain accurate safety records under their USDOT Number, as FMCSA will monitor all compliance through a single system.
How Can Businesses Prepare?
With FMCSA considering these changes, businesses should take steps now to prepare for a potential transition.
Update Legal Documents: Review contracts, permits, and insurance policies. Replace MC Numbers with USDOT Numbers where necessary.
Verify USDOT Number Information: Ensure your company’s FMCSA registration is accurate. Update addresses, contact details, and operating authority status.
Educate Clients and Business Partners: Inform shippers, brokers, and carriers about the potential change. Adjust internal databases to reflect USDOT Numbers instead of MC Numbers.
Stay Updated on FMCSA Announcements: FMCSA will provide further details as the transition approaches. Monitoring their website and industry news will help businesses stay ahead of compliance requirements.
The transportation industry is preparing for yet another major shift. If FMCSA eliminates MC Numbers, businesses must rely solely on USDOT Numbers for operating authority and compliance tracking.
This change may cause short-term disruptions and confusion, but it aims to simplify processes and reduce fraud in the long run. Reducing fraud is certainly a good thing, and would be most welcome in the transportation industry. Businesses should start preparing now to ensure a smooth transition if FMCSA finalizes this rule.