How to Become a Truck Broker
Become a truck broker the easy way with DAT
Thanks to DAT Authority, you can become a truck broker without doing all the paperwork.
If you’re learning how to become a broker in trucking, the process can seem complex, but it doesn’t have to be. New brokers need to navigate federal and state requirements, secure proper registrations, and set up their business quickly. DAT Authority simplifies everything by offering a complete package to handle your paperwork and ensure compliance, so you can focus on building your brokerage.
Starting as a broker also means understanding key industry requirements like obtaining a $75,000 surety bond and learning how to manage relationships with carriers and shippers. DAT Authority not only helps you get registered but also provides expert guidance to set you on the path to success.
- Get your MC and USDOT numbers
- Designate BOC-3 process agents
- Consult with one of our brokerage experts
Get your MC and USDOT numbers
Register your brokerage firm with federal agencies.
To operate legally as a truck broker, the first step is to obtain your Motor Carrier (MC) number and U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number. These identifiers are issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and are required to conduct brokerage activities. Essentially, you’ll want to:
- Use the Unified Registration System (URS) portal from the FMCSA to apply for your MC and USDOT numbers.
- Complete the application in its entirety and ensure all details are correct before submitting.
- Immediately receive your USDOT number if you applied online or wait up to six weeks if the application was mailed in.
With DAT Authority, you don’t have to navigate this process alone. Our team takes care of applying for you, ensuring all the details are handled correctly.
Note: MC numbers are slowly being phased out, so double-check your state’s and company’s brokerage requirements to ensure you acquire the ID numbers you need.
Designate BOC-3 process agents
Let DAT Authority simplify your designation process.
A BOC-3 (Blanket of Coverage) filing designates process agents in every state where you’ll operate, and it’s a nationwide requirement all brokers have to abide by. Process agents handle legal documents on your behalf so that your brokerage complies with state and federal regulations. As you become a broker for trucking, DAT Authority can save time and hassle by designating BOC-3 process agents for you all across the country.
Consult with one of our brokerage experts
Make the most out of DAT’s brokerage resources.
Navigating the requirements to become a broker for trucking can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. DAT Authority simplifies the process with extensive tools and expert support to get your business up and running. With DAT, you can expect to:
- Receive personalized guidance based on your unique goals and circumstances.
- Access industry insights and learn about best practices, strategies for success, and more.
- Streamline your setup to avoid common pitfalls with our filing tools and support network.
"Some say it's simple to get your authority, and that you should save your money and do it yourself. Other people, including myself, are not sure where to even begin. I used a service provided by DAT to get my authority. It was important to me that it was done right the first time, by people who have done this before."
- Chad Boblett - Boblett Brothers Trucking
"They took me by the hand an led me through all of the diffiult and confusing steps to ensure that I started off on the right food. I cannot say it any clearer than these folks know what it's all about."
- Gregg Knight, LTL Trucking
Becoming a broker for trucking involves several key steps:
- Choose a business structure (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.) and register your company with the appropriate state authorities.
- Apply for your MC and USDOT numbers through the FMCSA.
- File a BOC-3 form or hire a third-party to designate process agents for you.
- Invest in technology like load boards and freight management software to seamlessly manage operations.
Build relationships with shippers and carriers to grow your network.
BOC-3 process agents are technically a state-by-state requirement, offering a legal safety net for brokers in each jurisdiction where you’re transporting freight. Realistically, you’ll need a BOC-3 process agent in every state. DAT Authority helps you take care of this process by designating certified BOC-3 process agents for your business. Our authority experts can make blanket designations in all the relevant jurisdictions across the country, so you can get your business going as you become a broker for trucking.
Yes! Registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) isn’t just for carriers. As you become a broker for trucking, you’ll need a USDOT number at the least. When you subscribe to DAT Authority, our team can fill out and submit your federal authority papers on your behalf. Avoid errors and streamline your application process by working with the experts.
If you’re just learning how to become a broker for trucking, getting a Motor Carrier (MC) number may no longer be necessary as the FMCSA recently announced that they’re phasing out this identifier and solely relying on USDOT numbers moving forward.
The purpose of the MC number for brokers was to certify your ability to transport commercial freight across state lines. As you apply for your USDOT number, double-check with your state requirements and the FMCSA to ensure you don’t need an MC number.
Just like starting any business, becoming a broker for trucking takes time, energy, and financial investment. But the payoff for brokerage can be great, affording you the chance to establish a name in the shipping industry and watch your business grow. There are a few upfront payments you’ll need to make—these include a surety bond or a trust fund, insurance, and fees for agents and registration. For a flat rate, DAT Authority makes starting your brokerage business as easy and as efficient as possible.
For anyone wondering how to become a broker for trucking, DAT offers a comprehensive Freight Broker Basics training course. You’ll get crucial info on everything from federal registration to setting up your back office delivered to you by our trucking course partners at Freight360. Our Freight Broker Basics course includes 40 web modules with coaching in small groups on how to find freight and broker sales. DAT members get the Freight Broker Basics course at 20% off.
Become a broker for trucking with help from DAT
Make sense of the brokerage authority process with DAT Authority for Brokers. If you’re researching how to become a broker for trucking, DAT Authority is the industry’s preferred trucking authority service, with expert advisors standing by to answer your questions and fill out your paperwork. Whether it’s federal or state brokerage requirements, DAT Authority ensures your applications are accurate and submitted correctly so you can focus on getting your business off the ground.