Trucking / New authority
Insurance for New Trucking Authorities
Many insurance companies won't even quote a new authority, and a wrong first policy can cost you loads before you haul one. We go straight to the companies that write new ventures, tell you what brokers will ask for before they ask, and take you back to market as your safety record builds. Call or text before you file and we'll walk you through what to expect.
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Road to authority
Eight Steps to Your First Load
Form Your Company
Set up an LLC or corporation and get an EIN from the IRS.
Register with FMCSA
Apply for your USDOT number and MC operating authority.
Name a Process Agent (BOC-3)
A process agent files this for you in each state you run.
Get Insured We Do This
Your insurer files proof of liability coverage (BMC-91X) with FMCSA. Your authority won't activate until it's on file.
Plates and Registrations
UCR, IRP plates, IFTA decals and Form 2290 for vehicles of 55,000 pounds or more.
Set Up Compliance
Drug and alcohol testing program, ELDs, driver qualification files.
Wait Out the Protest Period
FMCSA publishes your application. Authority usually activates a few weeks after filing.
Haul, Then Pass Your Safety Audit
New carriers get a New Entrant Safety Audit within the first 12 months.
Filings explained
The Paperwork, in Plain English
BMC-91XYour insurer's proof to FMCSA that you carry the required liability limits. Your insurance company files it once the policy is bound.
MCS-90An endorsement on your auto policy that protects the public. Required for for-hire interstate carriers.
BOC-3Names a process agent in each state. Filed by a process agent, not your insurer.
$750,000The federal minimum liability for general freight in vehicles of 10,001 pounds or more, or $300,000 for lighter vehicles. Brokers and shippers often require $1,000,000.
What We Need to Quote You
- USDOT and MC numbers, or your application date
- Year, make, VIN and value of each truck and trailer
- Name, date of birth, license number and years of CDL experience for each driver
- What you haul and how far (radius)
- Any prior insurance or loss runs, if you have them
Good to Know
Before You Buy
Your first policy has to satisfy the FMCSA and the brokers you plan to haul for. We go through each requirement with you before you apply.
- Filing first. FMCSA requires proof of insurance on file before your operating authority becomes active. Start the quote as soon as you apply.
- First years. New authorities often pay more for the first few years, until they build a safety and claims record.
- Broker waiting periods. Some brokers won't load a carrier until its authority has been active for a set number of days.
- Broker limits. Many brokers ask for $1,000,000 in liability and cargo coverage, often $100,000, above the federal minimum.
- Driver experience. Insurance companies look closely at commercial driving experience. Have your CDL history and driving record ready when you quote.
- Down payment. New authority policies often need a larger down payment. Plan for it before your start date.
Pair It With
Gaps New Carriers Often Miss
A new authority needs more than the filing. These are the gaps we check for when we quote.
Brokers Usually Require Cargo Coverage
Cargo isn't federally required for most freight, but most brokers and shippers ask for it.
Your Own Truck Needs Physical Damage
Liability covers others. Your truck needs physical damage coverage, which lenders usually require.
Hiring Drivers? Workers Comp Comes Next
Employed drivers usually need workers comp. Owner-operators often carry occupational accident instead.
One Accident Can Go Past Your Auto Limits
A serious crash can lead to a claim bigger than your auto policy. An umbrella adds a layer above it.
Your Family Depends on Your Income
If something happened to you, term life helps your family keep up with the bills for the years they need it most.
Your Personal Cars Need Their Own Policy
Your business policy covers business vehicles. The family cars at home need personal auto, and we can quote both.
New authority questions
What New Carriers Ask Us
Don't see your question? Ask us directly. A licensed agent will answer, in English or Spanish.
Can I get a quote before my authority is active?
Yes, and you should. FMCSA won't activate your authority until your insurance filing is on record, so start the quote as soon as you apply.
Why is insurance so expensive for new authorities?
Insurance companies have no history on a new company, so they price for the unknown. Experienced drivers, clean MVRs, a shorter radius and lower-risk commodities all help. Rates usually improve after one to two clean years.
I only haul inside one state. Do I still need this?
Intrastate carriers follow their state's filing rules, which differ from FMCSA's. Tell us where you run and what you haul and we'll confirm what applies to you.
Ready When Your MC Number Is.
Start with your DOT number. We'll take it from there.