A USDOT Number is a unique interstate operating authority assigned by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to all interstate movers. An MC Number is another interstate operating authority given by the FMCSA in addition to a USDOT number. Moving companies transporting passengers or federally regulated commodities across state lines are required to have MC numbers. As a certified moving company in Atlanta, GA, USA Family Moving shares more on the difference between USDOT and MC numbers.

The Difference Between a USDOT Number and an MC Number

What Is a USDOT Number?

A USDOT number (U.S. Department of Transportation number) is an interstate operating authority and unique identifier assigned to a moving company performing interstate moves by the FMCSA. The government uses this number to keep track of a moving company’s safety records, such as registration status, compliance reviews, ratings, inspections, crash investigations, and more. This information is made public and easily accessible on the FMCSA website.

What Is an MC Number?

An MC number (Motor Carrier number) is also an interstate operating authority and unique identifier assigned by the FMCSA to moving companies operating in interstate commerce – in other words, hauling cargo across state lines. However, while all interstate movers are required to have and display a USDOT number on their commercial carriers, not all moving companies need an MC number. What is the difference between USDOT numbers and MC numbers? The types of movers required to get them.

Who Is Required to Have a USDOT Number?

All moving companies operating commercial vehicles that haul cargo or transport passengers across state lines must be registered with the FMCSA, have a USDOT number, and comply with Federal Regulations.

Who Needs an MC Number?

Some interstate moving companies need an MC Number in addition to a USDOT number. For-hire carriers transporting passengers or federally regulated commodities across state lines must also obtain an interstate operating authority MC number. However, for-hire carriers that only haul cargo that is not federally regulated are typically not required to have an MC number.

Moving companies transporting goods across state lines typically have a USDOT number, an MC Number, or both. For instance, our Georgia moving company, USA Family Moving, displays both our USDOT number (USDOT 3076240) and MC number (MC 64858) on all our moving trucks.  

How to Look Up USDOT Number

If you need to locate your USDOT number or verify someone else’s, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provides an easy way to access this information online. Here’s how you can look up your USDOT number:

1. Visit the FMCSA Website

Go to the FMCSA’s Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System. This platform allows you to search for USDOT numbers and access carrier information.

2. Use the Search Function

Once on the SAFER System page, you’ll find two main search options:

• Company Snapshot: Enter the company name, USDOT number, or Motor Carrier (MC) number to gather detailed information.
• Licensing and Insurance Search: If you’re specifically verifying operating authority or insurance, this tool will provide relevant details.

3. Enter Your Information

To locate your USDOT number, input one of the following into the search bar:

• Your company’s legal name or DBA (Doing Business As) name
• Your USDOT number (if partially known)
• Motor Carrier (MC) number (if applicable)

Click Search to generate results.

4. Review Your Results

The search will provide a snapshot of the carrier’s information, including:

• USDOT number
• Company name and contact details
• Operating status (active or inactive)
• Safety ratings and inspections

If you cannot find the USDOT number online or need further help, contact FMCSA. Their support team can assist in locating your information.

How to Look Up Motor Carrier Number

Those interested in this information will likely want to learn how to look up their motor carrier number. Doing this makes filing paperwork easier and ensures you can concentrate entirely on whatever your trucking company or organization offers its customers. To search for your MC number, visit the SAFER FMCSA website. Search for the number by inputting the DOT number or company name. The website allows you to search for vital business information like company crash records, fatalities, injuries, towing, and even the safety rating of the business. 

How to Apply for a USDOT Number

The first step in applying for a USDOT number is to have all the necessary information. USDOT applications are as straightforward as they come. Aside from the most basic information like names and addresses, you will need the following information to get a USDOT number: 

• Company operation
• Operation classification
• Cargo classification
• Number of vehicles in your fleet
• Types of vehicles 
• Ownership of vehicles
• Any driver statuses that you deal with

After getting all this information squared away, it is necessary to fill out any of the three application forms online. The three different forms are listed below: 

• MCS-150 (Basic form for all carriers)
• MCS-150B (Combination of USDOT and HazMat application – if applicable) 
• MCS-150C (Combination of USDOT Number and Intermodal Equipment Provider) 

These forms are used to effectively filter out any businesses that will be handling different kinds of materials. After printing the applicable forms, you will need to mail them to 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. 

Can You Have a DOT Number Without an MC Number?

Yes, depending on your business’s operations and whether you require federal operating authority, you can have a USDOT number without an MC number. Always verify your specific compliance needs to avoid fines or penalties. If you’re unsure, contact the FMCSA or your state’s DOT for guidance.

How to Cancel a USDOT Number Application

If you’ve applied for a USDOT number but need to cancel your application, the process is straightforward but requires careful attention to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines. Here’s how you can successfully cancel your USDOT number application:

1. Determine the Application Status

Before proceeding, verify the status of your application. If your USDOT number has already been issued, you’ll need to deactivate it instead of canceling the application.

2. Contact the FMCSA

Reach out to the FMCSA directly to request the cancellation of your application. You can contact them via:

• FMCSA Contact Form: Submit an online request through their official website.
• Phone Support: Call the FMCSA support line at 1-800-832-5660 for assistance.
• Mail: Send a written request to the FMCSA office, including details about your application.

3. Provide Necessary Information

When requesting a cancellation, ensure you provide:

• Your USDOT application tracking number or issued USDOT number
• Company name and address
• Contact details
• Reason for cancellation

Including all relevant information will expedite the process.

4. Verify Cancellation

Once the FMCSA processes your request, you should receive confirmation of the cancellation. Retain this documentation for your records. It may take 2 to 3 weeks to cancel your USDOT Number.

How to Inactivate My USDOT Number

To deactivate a USDOT number, you must complete and submit Form MCS-150, selecting “Out of Business” as the reason for filing. Additionally, include a copy of the driver’s license belonging to the person who signed the certification statement. The certification statement can be found in the following sections: #31 on Form MCS-150, #37 on Form MCS-150B, or #22 on Form MCS-150C.

If your USDOT number is tied to an active operating authority, you must also submit Form OCE-46 alongside Form MCS-150. Form OCE-46 must either be notarized or signed in the presence of FMCSA personnel.

Completed and signed forms can be submitted through the following methods:

• FMCSA Registration Contact Webpage: Create a ticket and upload your documents for faster processing.
• Fax: Send your forms to 202-366-3477.

For quicker service, the FMCSA recommends using the Registration Contact Webpage to submit your request.

Need Help with Moving or Logistics?

Whether you’re starting or restructuring a business, USA Family Moving & Storage offers reliable transportation and logistics solutions. Contact our Atlanta moving company today to learn how we can support your journey!

How to Check USDOT Status 

These identification numbers are easy to look up, and there are many convenient ways to see where you stand in their filing. There are three ways to check the status of your DOT number. You could check online at the SAFER website via the USDOT number lookup, find out by email via the web form, or inquire by phone by calling 800-832-5660 and speaking to customer service. 

More About USA Family Moving

We hope this article teaches you how to get your USDOT and MC number. 

Our full suite of moving services includes assistance from our Georgia movers, Woodstock, GA movers, Atlanta movers, and Atlanta local movers, along with our Georgia packing services, Marietta moving services, and other services in Atlanta. We are ready to help you and your family with whatever moving services you may need in the Peach State. We understand that no two moves are the same and that each one will have unique needs or require different types of professional help. Our attention to detail for various kinds of moves differentiates us from other related businesses. We have the tools and expertise required to cater to whatever type of move your family may need. No matter the distance you are traveling or the kind of belongings you have in your home, our moving professionals and Georgia movers are here to help. 

Contact USA Family Moving online or call 770-573-1919 today for a FREE quote and to learn why we are one of the top Atlanta moving companies and Cumming, GA moving companies!