What Is A Boc-3, And Why Is It Important?
The trucking industry is a 700 billion dollar industry and a crucial part of the American economy. But it takes work to break into.
Trucking companies must comply with FMCSA regulations by filing a BOC-3; without it, they're not authorized to operate.
A lot of data goes into a BOC-3 form, so we wanted to shed some light on what these blanks mean and how their presence will impact your business.
What does a BOC-3 do?
A BOC-3 form is a legal document that identifies the person or entity to whom legal papers can be delivered on behalf of an interstate trucking company.
You can input the names and addresses of those that are authorized to receive documents on your behalf in all 50 states.
There are some exceptions as to who is required to file for a BOC-3, but these apply only to specific business structures and operations.
About this Form
As a freight forwarder or broker, you can file Form BOC-3 on your own behalf. However, for the purpose of registering your business with the FMCSA and operating legally as a commercial carrier, all transportation companies must designate an "FMCSA agent" in every state in which your carrier has the authority to operate.
FMSCA agents or process agents are individuals or organizations who receive legal documents on your carrier's behalf.
A completed BOC-3 form should include information on all states for which agency designations are needed, and it's imperative to keep a copy of the form at your registered business address at all times.
It is required that an authorized party file Form BOC-3 with the FMCSA if there is a change in a carrier's designation. In this process, new designations should be filed only in the states where the changes apply. Optionally, your process agents may file for either INDIVIDUAL or BLANKET designations as applicable in relevant states.
Where to file the BOC-3 form?
FMCSA
Office of Registration and Safety Information, MC-RS
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Room W65-206
Washington, DC 20590
How much does a BOC-3 agent cost?
The cost of hiring a BOC-3 agent depends on several factors, including the services you request and the fees your process agent charges.
BOC-3 agents charge anywhere from $20 to more than $100, depending on the type of service you require.
Fee structures vary widely among professional process agents. Some charge an annual fee plus per-document charges, while others bill a one-time BOC filing fee.
How often do you have to file BOC-3?
Because of the importance of maintaining accurate records, carriers are expected to file a BOC-3 form whenever there is an ownership change, change of business address, or reinstatement of your MC operating authority.
You can file this form with the FMCSA as often as you like– but it's crucial that you keep your contact information up-to-date with the FMCSA and your compliance provider to ensure accuracy and avoid penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does it take to file Form BOC-3?
After you have electronically filed the BOC-3 form with the FMCSA and provided all necessary supporting documentation, you can expect to receive your operating authority within 3-4 business days.
Contact the FMCSA if more than 10 business days have elapsed since you applied and still haven't received your operating authority document.
By visiting the FMCSA Licensing and Insurance website, you can also determine whether your operating authority has been issued.
Can I act as my own Process agent?
If you live in the state where you are filing and can arrange to be available during regular business hours to accept legal papers, then it is possible for you to act as your own process agent.
How to Select the Right Process Agent?
Seek out a compliance partner and provider that offers more than the minimum, such as impeccable customer support and innovative tools to keep you on top of essential compliance obligations.
Do you need BOC-3 for hotshot?
Yes. The BOC-3 is a requirement for everyone in the transportation industry.
Wrap
The BOC-3 form is a document that is essential for the carrier to operate and get their authority to operate.
In order to ensure that risks are minimized and that your business operations remain uninterrupted, transportation companies must make sure they abide by the laws of the state in which they operate. A BOC-3 form is a way for carriers to prove that they are doing just that.
From the onset, Innovative Logistics has been providing full-service compliance solutions in the trucking industry small to large carriers alike.
If you would like to get more information on any regulatory requirements in the industry, or simply need assistance with your BOC-3 filing, you can reach out to us at [Contact Number] to learn more about our services. We would be happy to help!
