What Is the MCS-150? The Motor Carrier Biennial UpdateThe MCS-150 is the form carriers use to register with FMCSA and to update their information every two years.What Is a BOC-3? Process Agent Designation ExplainedA BOC-3 names a process agent in each state who can accept legal papers for a carrier or broker.BIPD InsuranceBIPD is the bodily injury and property damage liability insurance for-hire carriers must keep on file with FMCSA.What Is Operating Authority? MC Numbers, Common, Contract and Broker AuthorityOperating authority is FMCSA's permission to transport regulated freight for hire across state lines.Revocation PendingA pending revocation means FMCSA has started revoking a carrier's operating authority, usually over insurance or process agents.New Entrant Safety AuditNew carriers go through an 18-month New Entrant Safety Assurance Program, with a safety audit, before they're permanent.What Is a Chameleon Carrier?A chameleon carrier shuts down after safety or legal problems and reopens under a new USDOT number to escape its record.What Is a Hostage Load?A hostage load is freight a carrier refuses to deliver until the broker or shipper pays more money.What Is a Fictitious Pickup?A fictitious pickup is cargo theft where a criminal poses as the legitimate carrier to collect a load.FMCSA SAFER Company SnapshotSAFER's Company Snapshot shows a carrier's current registration, authority and inspection summary, but not its history.What's in a Carrier Packet? Carrier Setup Documents ExplainedA carrier packet is the set of documents a broker collects before working with a new carrier.USDOT Number InactiveAn inactive USDOT number means FMCSA no longer considers the company an active registrant.FMCSA Safety RatingsFMCSA safety ratings come from compliance reviews; most carriers are unrated.What Is Double Brokering?Double brokering is re-brokering a load without authority or the shipper's knowledge.
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