If you have a business and your vehicles transport goods/cargo in the state or across state lines, you will need the “authority” to transport the goods. These permits are known as a “transportation authority,” or “operating authority.”
All companies transporting goods almost always (there are a few exemptions) need an interstate authority issued by the former Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), now maintained by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
Carry goods across state lines and you’ll need truck insurance and probably cargo insurance (exemptions do apply). If your loaded truck’s weight - or the combined loaded weights of your truck and trailer is more than 10,000 pounds, you’re required to have at least $750,000 in liability insurance (although $1 million is the industry standard).
If your cargo is a hazardous substance, your liability insurance requires rises to a $1 million minimum. The amount depends on the type of hazardous material you’re transporting.
Should your vehicles be smaller in size and weight (loaded truck and trailer weigh less than 10,000 pounds, you’ll need to have at least $300,000 in liability insurance.
–There are four states that require a special registration should your loaded vehicles weigh a certain amount.
New York, for example, requires that you register for an HUT number if your vehicle weight exceeds 18,000 pounds. New Mexico stipulates that you pay a per-mile charge, which you can pay when you enter, or you can pre-register and pay a lower fee. Kentucky requires a KYU number if your vehicle is more than 60,000 pounds. Oregon has its own Weight-Distance Tax, which you can pay when you enter Oregon’s borders or register beforehand and pay monthly.
Transportation authority regulations and requirements can be quite daunting if you have little to no experience in the industry. Your Authority Service can help you navigate the requirements and apply for all necessary authorities easily. We look forward to being of service.