Verify any carrier's safety rating, operating authority, and insurance status before tendering a load. Data pulled directly from the FMCSA SAFER database. Free, no signup required.
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DOT numbers are 7–8 digits. MC numbers may include or exclude the "MC" prefix.
Querying FMCSA SAFER database...
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Data sourced from FMCSA SAFER database. Updated daily. Crashes listed represent motor carrier involvement without determination of fault. Always verify insurance and authority directly with the carrier before tendering freight. View full FMCSA record →
Freight brokers are legally required under FMCSA regulations to verify that carriers have active operating authority and adequate insurance before tendering freight. Failing to do so exposes brokers to liability if a carrier causes damage or an accident.
Even for shippers working directly with carriers, checking FMCSA status takes 30 seconds and catches problems before they become expensive: uninsured carriers, revoked authority, or carriers with poor safety records that could lead to cargo damage or delayed delivery.
| Rating | What it means | Can you use this carrier? |
|---|---|---|
| Satisfactory | Carrier passed safety audit. Meets federal safety standards. | ✅ Yes |
| Conditional | Carrier has safety deficiencies. Operating under corrective action plan. | ⚠️ Use caution |
| Unsatisfactory | Carrier failed safety audit. Imminent hazard to public safety. | ❌ Do not use |
| Not Rated | No safety audit has been conducted yet. Common for newer carriers. | Check authority and insurance status carefully |
A USDOT number is a unique identifier assigned by FMCSA to commercial motor carriers. All carriers operating commercial vehicles in interstate commerce are required to have one. It's used to track safety records, compliance, and crash data.
An MC number is an operating authority number required for for-hire carriers hauling regulated commodities in interstate commerce. Active MC authority is required before a broker can legally tender a load. Not all carriers with a DOT number have an MC number.
Active authority means the carrier's FMCSA operating authority is current and valid. Authority can be revoked for safety violations, insurance lapses, or non-compliance. Always verify authority status is active before tendering a load.
The FMCSA SAFER database is updated daily from a 24-hour old source. For time-sensitive decisions, verify directly at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. Authority status and insurance filings update as carriers file changes with FMCSA.