Establishing a transportation business isn’t a cakewalk. It requires in-depth business understanding and information about important licensing to ensure that you are following safe business practices. Before you jump into this industry, you will have to make real efforts to identify the important licensing and practice ensures a business establishment. If you are new to this industry, you should start gathering some essential information, concentrate on the basic training part and also, interact with the industry experienced professionals so that you can start expecting the benefits of putting relentless efforts.
All these years, many startups emerged in the transportation industry not knowing the importance of FMCSA licensing (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). Thus, the department has received a huge number of complaints against auto transporters and brokers. The best way to avoid being victimized and deceptive business practices is to be well-informed about the rules and regulations important to know for a better business establishment.
30 Hours behind the Wheel Training - A Getaway to the FMCSA Licensing
- If interesting in a commercial transportation industry, FMCSA licensing should be possessed. Obtain minimum 30 hours of behind the wheel training and 10 hours of driving practice to get a class A commercial driver license. It is also important to show experience in operating a tractor-trailer vehicle as mentioned on the FMCSA's website.
- Motor coaches would require approx 15 hours training with at least 7 hours of driving practice to get class B commercial vehicle driver license. Drivers with class B licensing would be required to practice more and extended training session is advised to get upgraded to class A licensing.
- "Well-trained drivers would get better licensing which leads to the better and safer driving on highways and busy roads", said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx.
Importance of FMCSA Licensing in A Freight Broker Business:
- Transport brokers and motor carriers are required to be registered with FMCSA where brokers and transporters will get a six digit "MC Docket" number.
- Transporters will also get issued a seven digit "USDOT" number.
- It enables in checking the validity of the registration of any transporter or broker by considering the "carrier search" option for their MC Docket number. This way, brokers can find the licensed transporters for fetching feasible transportation solution.
- It prevents the business obstacles occurred in case, you hired transporters or motor carriers doesn't have essential licensing.
- Any incidents or dispute in a contract may allow you to complaint against transporters or motor carriers by going online and mentioning the Docket number.
