Starting a trucking company means forming the business, getting an USDOT number and operating authority from FMCSA if you haul for hire across state lines, buying the right insurance and filing it, registering for UCR, setting up IRP plates and IFTA if you run multiple states, paying heavy vehicle use tax, enrolling in a drug and alcohol testing program and the Clearinghouse, building driver qualification files, choosing an ELD, and finding first loads.
Worked example: a one-truck dry van carrier
Andre has driven for a large carrier for six years and buys a used day cab and dry van trailer to run regional freight under his own authority. He forms an LLC, applies for an USDOT number and MC authority through FMCSA's registration system, and buys primary liability and cargo insurance from an agent who works with new authorities; the insurer files proof with FMCSA. During the waiting period before his authority becomes active, he registers with UCR, applies for IRP apportioned plates and an IFTA account through his base state, files Form 2290 for the truck, enrolls in a consortium for drug and alcohol testing, registers in the Clearinghouse and sets up his own driver qualification file.
He installs an ELD that is registered with FMCSA, sets up a factoring account to get paid faster on broker loads, creates a simple website with his authority numbers, equipment and a contact form for shippers, and starts building a carrier packet to send to brokers.
Setup steps in order
| Step | Done looks like |
|---|---|
| Business entity and EIN | Formed and banking set up |
| USDOT number and MC authority | Applications filed with FMCSA |
| Insurance filings | Liability (and cargo where required) filed |
| UCR | Registered for the year |
| IRP and IFTA | Plates and fuel tax account through base state |
| Form 2290 | Heavy vehicle use tax paid if applicable |
| Drug and alcohol program | Consortium enrollment and Clearinghouse registration |
| Driver qualification file | Medical card, MVR, application, road test |
| ELD | Registered device installed |
| First customers | Broker setups and website live |
Mistakes new carriers make
- Hauling loads before authority is active
- Letting insurance lapse, which can lead to authority revocation
- Forgetting UCR or IFTA filings
- No drug and alcohol testing program for an owner-operator who drives
- Taking cheap loads that do not cover cost per mile
What this industry needs from a website
Service capabilities and shipper inquiry flow.
- Home
- Services and equipment
- Lanes
- Request a quote
- Safety and authority
- Careers (drivers)
- Contact
Free tools
Common questions
Do I need an MC number?
For-hire carriers moving regulated freight across state lines usually need operating authority in addition to an USDOT number. FMCSA's registration pages explain which applies.
How long until my authority is active?
There is a waiting period after applying while insurance is filed and the protest period passes. Check FMCSA for current timing.
Do owner-operators need drug testing?
Yes, CDL drivers in safety-sensitive roles must be in a testing program, often through a consortium, and registered in the Clearinghouse.
What is IFTA?
A fuel tax agreement for carriers operating qualified vehicles in multiple jurisdictions; you file quarterly reports through your base state.
Sources
- SBA: 10 steps to start your business
- SBA: Apply for licenses and permits
- FMCSA: Registration
- Unified Carrier Registration
- IFTA, Inc.
- IRS: About Form 2290
- FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse
Sources checked October 6, 2026. Rules, fees and forms change; confirm details with the agency or provider before you act. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
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