Running the Business Behind the Truck
New Authority Checklist: What to Have Ready Before Looking for Freight
Having authority or a USDOT number does not automatically make a carrier ready for every freight opportunity. Brokers will typically want to see current documents, and you will need processes for rate confirmations, paperwork and payment. Use this list to check what applies to your operation.
Educational Guide
Registration and compliance · Carrier documentation · Processes · Your numbers
Not every item applies to every carrier. Check official sources for your situation.
Readiness checklist
Registration and compliance
- Authority status is active, where operating authority applies
- BOC-3 filed, where applicable
- UCR registration completed, where applicable
- Insurance in force and a certificate of insurance available
- Your compliance responsibilities understood (hours of service, maintenance, drug and alcohol testing and others that apply)
Carrier documentation
- W-9 and business information
- Equipment information: type, dimensions, capacity, special features
- A ready carrier packet for broker setup
- Payment or factoring arrangements, if you use factoring (including any notice of assignment)
Processes
- How brokers will reach you (phone, email, hours)
- How you review and sign rate confirmations
- How you capture and send BOLs and PODs
- How invoices are submitted and payments tracked
Your numbers
- Operating costs and cost per mile
- Minimum acceptable rate for your truck
- Lane plan: where you want to run and how you will get back
What this checklist does not do
Completing these items does not guarantee loads, broker approval, revenue or profitability. Brokers set their own setup requirements, and freight conditions change.
Official sources
Free DHC member resource
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