Difference Between DOT Number and MC Number

While planning to start a trucking company, you might need to get registered with FMCSA and obtain an MC number, DOT number, or both. Even if your company is acquiring third-party services for transporting goods, you may get in need of an MC number or DOT number to abide by the regulations for safe and sound transportation.

DOT numbers and MC numbers can be obtained together at a reasonable price by opting to purchase the best DOT authority for your company. However, the startups are often confused between DOT and MC numbers. Several questions might be popping into your mind about getting operation authority. You might be wondering about the difference between these two, how much each of them costs, and what must be acquired for the kind of trucking company you’re running. If these queries are bothering you, then you are at the right forum.

This blog will help you understand the differences between DOT numbers and MC numbers. Read on this blog till the end to figure out whether you need an MC number, DOT number, or both.

What is an MC Number?

MC number is also known as trucking authority or operating authority, and it is most commonly required for the businesses involved in interstate commerce. The companies involved in the haulage of loads between more than one state or the haulage of hazardous material need to get an MC number. For carrying out such business operations, it’s a requirement imposed by FMCSA to get an MC number.

Simply put, an MC number is an authorization figure issued by FMCSA to support commercial activities and interstate travel. If you don’t wish to face issues while hauling passengers or goods between different cities and locations, you must get an MC number. It’s a must to have an MC number for the businesses that need to move vehicles beyond the borders of a certain state.

Who Needs It?

Most trucking companies qualify to get an MC number. The MC number becomes a requirement for the companies that plan to operate for-hire. Furthermore, an MC number is required by the companies involved in the transportation of federally regulated loads.

You’ll need to get it from FMCSA if you’re arranging transport in interstate commerce. Any trucking company that transports passengers or arranges transport in interstate commerce must get it from the FMCSA to avoid the violation of rules set by this regulatory body.

What is a DOT Number?

Every trucking company needs to get a DOT number, as it works as their driver’s license. A DOT number is used for the verification with the FMCSA, and it shows that your business is registered as a trucking company with this regulatory agency of the trucking industry in the United States.

While using a motor vehicle commercially, a DOT number plays a crucial role, as it verifies your association with FMCSA. Whether you’re transporting equipment with a qualified vehicle or hauling cargo, it’s essential for you to provide DOT number information to the drivers.

Who Needs It?

There are certain requirements for the people or companies who need to obtain a DOT number. The vehicle involved in the haulage of hazardous material which requires safety permits in a particular state qualifies for a DOT number. Moreover, if your vehicle’s overall gross combination weight goes above 10,000 pounds, you need to get a DOT number.

A DOT number is also required for the vehicles designed to carry and transport more than eight passengers for paid reasons. On the other hand, the vehicles designed to carry and transport more than 16 passengers, not for compensation, also need a DOT number.

That’s All!

We hope that you have understood the real difference between an MC number and the DOT number. Not all businesses operate in the same density. Depending upon your trucking company, you need to decide whether you need to get a DOT authority package or not. After knowing the difference between MC and DOT numbers, you must be able to figure it out on your own. If not, stay tuned for further articles, as we will shortly come up with more information regarding safely and smartly operating in the trucking industry.