Operating Authority
The legal permission granted by FMCSA for a company to operate as a for-hire motor carrier, freight broker, or freight forwarder in interstate commerce. Operating authority is represented by an MC number and comes in different types: common carrier (property), contract carrier, broker, and freight forwarder. Without active operating authority, a company cannot legally haul freight for compensation across state lines.
Detailed Explanation
The legal permission granted by FMCSA for a company to operate as a for-hire motor carrier, freight broker, or freight forwarder in interstate commerce. Operating authority is represented by an MC number and comes in different types: common carrier (property), contract carrier, broker, and freight forwarder. Without active operating authority, a company cannot legally haul freight for compensation across state lines.
Example
A carrier's operating authority status shows 'ACTIVE' on FMCSA's website, confirming they are legally authorized to haul freight for hire. A status of 'NOT AUTHORIZED' or 'REVOKED' means a shipper should not tender freight to them.
Related Resources
Need Help With Your Freight?
Understanding freight terminology is the first step. Let us handle the rest — tell us about your shipment and we will match you with the right carrier.