What Is a USDOT Number and How to Check It

What is a USDOT Number?

Understanding the importance of a USDOT Number is essential for commercial vehicle operators active in interstate transportation or for someone looking to hire help from a moving company. The USDOT Number serves as a unique identifier linked to important company information, regulatory compliance, and safety records. Obtaining a USDOT Number is not just a legal requirement for certain operators; it's a step towards ensuring public safety and maintaining the integrity of your business operations.

If you want to see an USDOT number example, you can check out the trucks on our Cross Country Movers page. Stewart Moving & Storage has a USDOT number, as all trusted moving companies should. When looking for a moving company, you should always check the status of the USDOT number. It’s essential when ensuring the safety of your items.

What is USDOT Certification?

This certification is mandatory for trucks and commercial vehicles that operate on the interstate or transport hazardous materials. By securing a USDOT number compliance, trucking companies can demonstrate their commitment to safety and dependability, which can help build trust with clients and partners. As a result, acquiring a USDOT number is a significant investment for new and existing carriers aiming to legitimize their operations and gain a competitive edge in the transportation industry. It serves as a vital tool for monitoring and collecting audit data, which can be beneficial for improving business practices and maintaining operational excellence.

The Purpose of a USDOT Number

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) uses this data to ensure public safety and monitor the safety performance of carriers. Business owners must remember that specific criteria such as vehicle weight, cargo type, and whether transportation involves passengers, dictate the qualifications of having a USDOT number. Staying compliant is vital for maintaining good standing with regulatory bodies, and a USDOT number serves as the first step towards adherence to national transportation safety standards.

When Do You Need a USDOT Number?

Generally, if you operate vehicles for commercial purposes that transport passengers or haul cargo across state lines, you must have a USDOT number. This applies to vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight of 10,001 pounds or more, or those transporting hazardous materials in a quantity requiring a safety permit. Additionally, certain states mandate a USDOT number for intrastate commercial vehicle operations as well. Staying aware of these USDOT number regulations not only ensures that you adhere to federal guidelines, but it also enhances the credibility and trustworthiness of your business in the eyes of clients and authorities.

Who is Exempt from a DOT Number?

Vehicles that are used strictly for personal use, such as moving personal property or traveling on a family vacation, are not required to have a DOT number. If a vehicle operates only within a single state that does not require a DOT number for intrastate transportation, that vehicle is exempt. Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of less than 10,001 pounds are exempt if they're not used to transport hazardous materials in a quantity requiring placarding. When a private carrier is moving non-hazardous property and the cargo is not for compensation or commercial enterprise, a DOT number is not required.

Federal, state, and local government vehicles are typically exempt from USDOT license requirements because they operate under government authority. Certain commercial vehicles that are not used for business purposes on a regular basis may be exempt from needing a DOT number, depending on state rules. Farm vehicles that operate within a certain radius of the farm and are used to transport agricultural products, farm machinery, or farm supplies to and from a farm may not need a DOT number, but that is subject to state regulations.

Document Requirements for a USDOT number

1. Completed Application Form (MCS-150): This is the primary form needed to apply for a USDOT number; it collects information about the company's operation that will be used for safety analysis.
2. Employer Identification Number (EIN): The EIN, also known as the Federal Tax Identification Number, is used to identify a business entity and is required for all companies except sole proprietorships without employees.
3. Articles of Incorporation or LLC Operating Agreement: These documents prove the legal structure of your company and are necessary for corporations or LLCs registering for a USDOT number.
4. State Incorporation Certificate: This certificate proves that your company is legally recognized by the state where it is incorporated.
5. Commercial Vehicle Registrations: If your company already owns commercial vehicles, copies of registrations are required to verify the fleet size and types of vehicles in operation.
6. USDOT Medical Examiner's Certificate: For companies with drivers subject to federal physical qualification USDOT number requirements, you must provide a copy of the medical certificates indicating they are fit for duty.
7. Lease Agreement (if applicable): If you're leasing commercial vehicles, the USDOT requires a copy of the lease agreement to see the terms and verify the use of the vehicles.
8. Proof of Insurance: A document showing that your company has the required levels of public liability and cargo insurance, according to federal regulations, must be submitted.
   

How to Get a USDOT Number

USDOT number registration requires following a specific process outlined by the FMCSA. Before you can apply for a USDOT number, you will need to gather essential information including business details, insurance details, and information about your fleet, such as the number of vehicles and their weight. The FMCSA requires that all applications for USDOT numbers be completed online through the Unified Registration System (URS). Fill out the electronic form (MCS-150) and provide all the requested details accurately. As of now, there is no fee to apply for a USDOT number. However, it’s important to note that there are other fees related to operating authority if applicable to your operations.

How to Check a USDOT Number

The easiest and most straightforward way to check a USDOT number is through the FMCSA official website. They offer a search tool called SAFER (Safety and Fitness Electronic Records) System, which provides company safety data and related services to industry professionals and the public. Visit the FMCSA website and find the 'SAFER' link. Once you have located the search tool, enter the specific USDOT number in question. After submitting the USDOT number, you will have access to a detailed report that includes the carrier's safety rating, any reported accidents, inspection history, and safety violations. If you are looking for a company to help with a big move, ensuring your moving company has a USDOT number should be your top priority. You can look up safety information and ensure the legitimacy of the company. 

States that Require a USDOT Number

Since the USDOT number is a federal requirement for interstate moves, every state would technically require the USDOT number if a mover is completing moves from one state to another.

Stewart Moving & Storage: Registered and Ready!

When you’re looking to hire a US moving company to carry your precious cargo across any distance, you want to ensure that company is registered and has a safe driving history. You may have asked yourself, what is a MC number vs USDOT number? An MC number is also an identification number, but it's specifically used for companies that provide for-hire carriage—moving goods for others—and operate in interstate commerce. Generally, companies that transport federally-regulated commodities owned by others, or arrange for their transport, must have an MC number in addition to a USDOT number. For this reason, Stewart Moving and Storage possesses an MC number, as well. We are the moving company that you can trust with your items before, during, and after your move. Call or visit the rest of our website to let us help you with your moving plan.

FAQ’s About USDOT Number