OP-1(FF) Application for Freight Forwarder Authority

Instructions for Completing Form OP-1(FF)
Application for Freight Forwarder Authority
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.

Topic

Page

Overview of Operating Authority ……………………………………………………………………………………1
How to Apply …………………………………………………………………....................................................... 1
What Is the Cost? …………………………………………………………………............................................... 3
What Are the Steps in Getting Operating Authority? ……………………....................................................... 3
How to Complete the OP-1(FF) Application for Freight Forwarder Authority ……………………................... 7
Information Sources ………………………………………………………………………………………………...12
Form OP-1(FF) - Application for Freight Forwarder Authority …………………………………...................... 14

I. Overview of Operating Authority
Depending upon the type of business operation (Motor Carrier, Broker, Freight Forwarder, Shipper, Vehicle
Registrant, and/or Cargo Tank Facility) and what will be transported (property, hazardous materials, and/or
passengers), companies may be required to register for both Interstate Operating Authority (Form OP-1
series or Form OP-2) and USDOT Number (Form MCS-150 series). The Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Administration (FMCSA) enforces compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs)
and the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMRs), which govern safety and financial responsibility.
FMCSA’s registration requirements reflect the focus on both of these concerns.
FMCSA encourages all applicants with Internet access to use the online registration assistant at

http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/online-registration in order to determine FMCSA’s registration requirements.

Applicants without Internet access can call FMCSA at 1-800-832-5660 for assistance.

Who Needs Operating Authority?
Before beginning interstate operations in the United States (U.S.), all authorized for-hire Motor Carriers of
non-exempt property and passengers, Brokers, and Freight Forwarders based in the U.S. or Canada must
obtain Operating Authority by submitting the appropriate form(s) in the OP-1 series. For a description of the
different types of OP-1 forms and the various FMCSA requirements for obtaining Operating Authority, please
see “What Are the Steps in Getting Operating Authority?” (Topic IV) in this packet.
NOTE:
• Hawaii-based Motor Carriers that transport household goods, property or passengers within a terminal
area (see 49 U.S.C. § 13504) must obtain Operating Authority. Carriers that operate solely within the
State of Hawaii and do not transport household goods are not required to obtain Operating Authority.
• Mexico-based Motor Carriers should refer to http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/espanol/forms_sp.htm
(Spanish) or http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/espanol/english/forms.htm (English) for more information.
In addition to Operating Authority, some Motor Carriers of property or passengers must obtain a USDOT
Number before beginning interstate operations. Please consult “What Forms Do I Need to Complete?” at
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/reg-forms which specifies the required forms for both Operating Authority and
USDOT Number.

II. How to Apply
Applications may be submitted online or mailed to FMCSA. Compared to mailing, the online method reduces
processing time by as much as 2-3 weeks, thus enabling companies to begin their operations sooner.
Remember, operations cannot begin until the certificate, permit, or license for Operating Authority
has been received. For more information, see “What Are the Steps in Getting Operating Authority?” (Topic
IV) in this packet.
Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

Page 1

Apply Online
Applying online requires the use of a valid credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa).
Those who do not wish to submit their credit card information online must complete the application and
payment by mail (see “Apply by Mail” below).
The following tips are encouraged:
•

Go to http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/online-registration and complete the “Step-by-Step Registration
Guide” prior to starting the application. The registration guide will lead users through a series of
questions. Based upon the answers to the questions, the guide will identify required registration
forms and link users directly to the online application form.

•

Utilize the form instructions during the completion of the online form. This will help to ensure that the
application is completed accurately.

NOTE:
•

The applicant’s legal name (or the authorized representative’s name) must match the name and
billing address of the credit card.

•

Record the MC or FF Number that is provided after approval of the application. This number will be
needed on the insurance and process agent forms that are required to complete the application
process for obtaining Operating Authority (for more details, see “What Are the Steps in Getting
Operating Authority?” (Topic IV) in this packet). This number may also be needed for any
correspondence with the FMCSA.

Apply by Mail
Follow the steps below:
1) Applicants with Internet access are encouraged to go to http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/online-registration
and complete the “Step-by-Step Registration Guide” in order to identify required registration forms.
2) Go to http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/print-form to download and print the appropriate form(s) and instructions.
Applicants may also call FMCSA at 1-800-832-5660 to request an application packet by mail.
3) Follow the instructions to complete the application form(s).
4) Save a copy of the application and all supporting documents for the company’s business records.
5) Mail the completed application form(s), any supporting documents, and payment to one of the

following addresses depending upon the type of payment (and method of mail delivery):

•

Check or Money Order (Make payable to the FMCSA in U.S. dollars)
First-Class Mail
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
P.O. Box 530226

Atlanta, GA 30353-0226

Express Mail
Bank of America

Lockbox #530226

1075 Loop Road

Atlanta, GA 30337

•

Credit Card (MasterCard or Visa only)

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, MC-RIO

Washington, DC 20590

NOTE: Sending payment to the wrong address will delay application processing by 2-3 weeks.

Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

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III. What Is the Cost?
Operating Authority ……………………………………………………$300.00 each
•

Form OP-1
o Motor Common Carrier of Property (except Household Goods)
o Motor Contract Carrier of Property (except Household Goods)
o Motor Common Carrier of Household Goods
o Motor Contract Carrier of Household Goods
o Broker of Property (except Household Goods)
o Broker of Household Goods
o United States-based Enterprise Carrier of International Cargo (except Household Goods)
o United States-based Enterprise Carrier of International Household Goods

•

Form OP-1(P)
o Motor Common Carrier of Passengers
o Motor Contract Carrier of Passengers

•

Form OP-1(FF)
o Freight Forwarder of Property (except Household Goods)
o Freight Forwarder of Household Goods

For descriptions of the different types of Operating Authority, see “SECTION II – Type of Authority” under
“How to Complete the OP-1(FF) Application for Freight Forwarder Authority” (Topic V) in this packet.
NOTE:
•

REFUNDS ARE NOT PERMITTED.

•

Each type of Operating Authority requires an additional $300 fee. For example, an application
for both Freight Forwarder of Property and Freight Forwarder of Household Goods will require two
$300 fees for a total of $600. Multiple fees can be combined into a single payment.

•

The FMCSA reserves the right to discontinue processing any application for which insufficient
payment is received.

IV. What Are the Steps in Getting Operating Authority?
For Motor Carriers, Brokers, and Freight Forwarders based in the U.S. or Canada, the Operating Authority
application process includes the six steps shown below. Motor Carriers based in Hawaii or Mexico should
see the NOTE in “Overview of Operating Authority” (Topic I) in this packet.
Step 3
10-day protest period
Step 1

Step 2

Applicant
submits
OP-1
and/or
OP-1(P)
and/or
OP-1(FF)

Applicant
receives

MC or FF
Number

Step 6
Step 4

Insurance Company
files form(s) with FMCSA
Step 5
Applicant or Process Agent
files Form BOC-3 with FMCSA

Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

Applicant begins
operation AFTER
receiving
certificate, permit,
or license for
Operating Authority
from FMCSA

Page

Step 1 – Application for Operating Authority
Motor Carriers, Brokers, and Freight Forwarders begin the Operating Authority application process by
submitting one (or more) of the following forms with the appropriate application processing fee:
•

OP-1 - Operating Authority for:
o Motor Carrier (common property, contract property, common household goods, or contract
household goods)
o Broker (property or household goods)
o United States-based Enterprise Carrier (international cargo or international household goods)

•

OP-1(P) - Operating Authority for Motor Passenger Carrier (common or contract)

•

OP-1(FF) - Operating Authority for Freight Forwarder (property or household goods)

NOTE:
•

For descriptions of the different types of Operating Authority, see “SECTION II – Type of Authority”
under “How to Complete the OP-1(FF) Application for Freight Forwarder Authority” (Topic V) in this
packet.

•

To identify the required form(s) for Operating Authority as well as USDOT Number, see “What Forms
Do I Need to Complete?” at http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/reg-forms.

Step 2 – Grant Letter and MC/FF Number
Applicants will receive a grant letter after FMCSA processes and accepts the Operating Authority application
as follows:
•

If applying online, a Motor Carrier (MC) or Freight Forwarder (FF) Number will be provided

immediately and the confirmation grant letter will arrive via mail.

•

If applying by mail, the grant letter should arrive via mail in approximately 4 weeks. This letter will
include the MC or FF Number. Applicants have the option of checking the status of their application
online. See “Information Sources” (Topic VI) in this packet for instructions.

Insurance Companies and Process Agents will use the MC or FF Number to make the appropriate filings on
behalf of applicants to complete the application process for obtaining Operating Authority.
NOTE: Although an MC or FF Number has been assigned, this does not represent Operating
Authority. The company may not begin to operate until it has received the corresponding
certificate, permit, or license for Operating Authority described in Step 6.

Step 3 – 10-day Protest Period
At the same time the grant letter is mailed, each company’s application for Operating Authority will be
published in the FMCSA Register. This publication initiates the 10-calendar-day protest period, during which
any individual can file a protest with FMCSA stating why a company should not be issued Operating
Authority. FMCSA will accept protests sent by mail as long as they are postmarked by the last day of the
protest period. FMCSA will provide the applicant with information on the adjudication process if any protests
are filed. During this protest period, Insurance Companies and Process Agents can file the necessary
documents detailed in Step 4 and Step 5 below.
To view the FMCSA Register, go to http://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov and then follow the steps below:
1) Read the introductory page and then click the “Continue” link
2) Select the “FMCSA Register” option in the dropdown menu and click “Go”

Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

Page

Step 4 – Insurance
This step can begin any time after an applicant receives its MC or FF Number as described in Step 2 above
and is not dependent on Step 3 being completed. An Insurance Company must file the appropriate insurance
form(s) on behalf of the applicant within 90 days of the date the application for Operating Authority was
published in the FMCSA Register. Otherwise, the application for Operating Authority will be dismissed and
the application fee will not be refunded. The applicant will receive a warning letter about the 90-day deadline
if FMCSA has not received the required documentation within 20 days.
NOTE:
•

Applicants may not file insurance forms on their own behalf. Therefore, FMCSA does not provide
insurance forms to applicants.

•

An authorized representative from the home or branch office of an Insurance Company must file
the required insurance form(s) on the applicant’s behalf.

•

To minimize processing delays, FMCSA recommends filing forms electronically.

•

It is the applicant’s responsibility to follow up with the Insurance Company to verify that FMCSA has
received and approved the required insurance form(s).

•

Failure to promptly submit required forms and documentation will delay application processing.

•

Check the status of insurance filings by either accessing the FMCSA Web site (see “Information
Sources ” (Topic VI) in this packet for instructions) or calling FMCSA toll-free at 1-866-637-0635 or
202-385-2423 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. e.s.t.).

FMCSA requires all Freight Forwarders to maintain minimum levels of cargo insurance in the following
amounts:
•

$5,000 for loss of or damage to property carried on any one motor vehicle

•

$10,000 for loss of or damage to property occurring at any one time and place

For proof of cargo liability insurance, an Insurance Company must file Form BMC-34 on behalf of
Freight Forwarders within 90 days of the date the application for Operating Authority was published in the
FMCSA Register.
In addition, FMCSA requires Freight Forwarders that will operate commercial motor vehicles (CMV) to
maintain minimum levels of bodily injury and property damage (BI & PD) insurance and environmental
restoration coverage. For proof of BI & PD insurance, an Insurance Company must file Form BMC-91 or
BMC-91X with FMCSA on behalf of Freight Forwarders that will operate CMVs.
Minimum requirements for BI & PD insurance coverage vary as follows:
•

Freight Forwarders of Property (excluding Household Goods) that will operate CMVs with a gross
vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 pounds or more
o $5,000,000 minimum liability insurance for transporting hazardous materials referenced in
FMCSA’s insurance regulations at 49 CFR § 387.303(b)(2)(b)
o $1,000,000 minimum liability insurance for transporting hazardous materials referenced in
FMCSA’s insurance regulations at 49 CFR § 387.303(b)(2)(c)
o $750,000 minimum liability insurance for transporting ONLY non-hazardous commodities

•

Freight Forwarders of Property (excluding Household Goods) that will ONLY operate CMVs with a
GVWR under 10,000 pounds
o $5,000,000 minimum liability insurance for transporting any quantity of Class A or B
explosives, any quantity of poison gas (Poison A), or highway route controlled quantity of
radioactive materials as referenced in FMCSA’s regulations at 49 CFR § 387.303(b)(2)(d)
o $300,000 minimum insurance for transporting ONLY commodities not referenced above

Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

Page

•

Freight Forwarders of Household Goods that will operate CMVs
o $750,000 minimum liability insurance regardless of the GVWR of the company’s vehicles

Freight Forwarders that will not operate CMVs may request a waiver of BI & PD insurance requirements by
selecting the appropriate response in Section III of the OP-1(FF) Application for Freight Forwarder Authority.
To qualify for this insurance waiver, Freight Forwarders must certify that all of the following conditions are
true in its forwarding operations:
•

Will not own or operate any motor vehicles used on highways in the transportation of property

•

Will not perform transfer, collection, or delivery services

•

Will not have motor vehicles operated under its direction and control in the performance of transfer,
collection, or delivery services

NOTE:
•

Freight Forwarders that are approved for a BI & PD insurance waiver will receive an Operating
Authority permit that indicates that BI & PD insurance requirements have been waived. This waiver is
conditional and valid only as long as the Freight Forwarder remains in compliance with the operating
conditions noted above.

•

For questions regarding insurance requirements and waivers, contact the FMCSA Insurance Team,
Commercial Enforcement Compliance Division, at 1-866-637-0635 or 202-385-2423.

•

FMCSA’s insurance/financial regulations are available at 49 CFR Part 387. To view this information,
go to the FMCSA Web site at http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov and search for “387” in the Rules &
Regulations search box.

Self Insurance
Freight Forwarders, Motor Carriers, and U.S.-based Enterprise Carriers may qualify as a self-insurer against
bodily injury, property damage, and cargo liability claims, by submitting Form BMC-40 (Application for
Authority to Self-Insure) and evidence to the FMCSA to demonstrate the existence of the following:
•

Adequate tangible net worth that will cover any liability claims in the event of a loss

•

Sound self-insurance program

•

Adequate safety program

FMCSA will approve an application to self-insure subject to appropriate and reasonable conditions. For
more details about self insurance, see 49 CFR § 387.309 and § 387.411.

Step 5 – Process Agent
This step can begin any time after an applicant receives its MC or FF Number as described in Step 2 above.
FMCSA requires each applicant for Operating Authority to designate a Process Agent in every State in which
it conducts business or maintains an office. A Process Agent is a representative upon whom court papers
may be served in any legal proceeding brought against a Motor Carrier, Broker, or Freight Forwarder.
Freight Forwarders that will operate CMVs and Motor Carriers of Property and/or Passengers:
•

must designate a Process Agent in each State that they operate in or through.

•

can act as their own Process Agent in the State in which they maintain a physical office (P.O. Box
address is not considered a physical office).

Freight Forwarders that will not operate CMVs and Brokers:
•

must designate a Process Agent in each State in which they maintain an office or establish contracts.

•

can act as their own Process Agent in the State in which they maintain a physical office (P.O. Box
address is not considered a physical office).

Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

Page

Either the applicant or Process Agent, on behalf of the applicant, can file Form BOC-3 (Designation of
Process Agents) with the FMCSA. This form must be filed within 90 days of the date the application for
Operating Authority was published in the FMCSA Register. Failure to meet this deadline will result in
dismissal of the Operating Authority application and loss of the application fee. The applicant will receive a
warning letter about the 90-day deadline if FMCSA has not received the required documentation within 20
days. To minimize processing delays, FMCSA recommends electronically filing Form BOC-3 at http://li­
public.fmcsa.dot.gov.
For a fee, many commercial companies will arrange a Process Agent in any State. Some companies offer
“blanket coverage,” which designates a Process Agent in every U.S. State. For a list of Process Agent
companies, visit the FMCSA Web site at http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/process-agent. For more details
about Process Agent designation, see 49 CFR Part 366.

Step 6 – Certificate, Permit, or License of Operating Authority
After FMCSA has approved the application, insurance, and process agent filings, and the protest period has
ended without any protests, applicants are issued Operating Authority in the form of a certificate (Motor
Carrier), permit (Freight Forwarder), or license (Broker). Applicants may not begin operations until this
official record of Operating Authority is received by mail.

State Regulations and Requirements
In addition to Federal requirements, all applicants must comply with registration, fuel tax, and other State
regulations and procedures. Before beginning new or expanded interstate operations, applicants must
familiarize themselves with the various State rules applicable to interstate companies in each State in which
they plan to operate. Begin this process by contacting the transportation regulatory agency for the State in
which the applicant is located.

V. How to Complete the OP-1(FF) Application for Freight Forwarder Authority
These instructions will assist companies in accurately completing the application. Incomplete or incorrect
applications will be delayed or suspended until the applicant has been contacted and the problems
have been resolved. If an application is rejected, the application fee will not be refunded.
NOTE FOR APPLICATIONS THAT WILL BE MAILED:
•

Please print clearly in ink or type all information.

•

If more space is needed to complete any section on the application form, please attach a separate
sheet of paper and label each page with the applicant’s legal business name, section number on the
form, and item description.

•

Retain a copy of the completed application form and any supporting attachments for the company’s
business records.

•

For additional mailing instructions, see “Apply by Mail” under “How to Apply” (Topic II) in this packet.

SECTION I – Applicant Information
All Freight Forwarder applicants must complete this section.
FMCSA Authority
Select the “YES” response if either of the following conditions are true:
•

Operating Authority was previously issued by the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), Federal
Highway Administration (FHWA), Office of Motor Carrier Safety (OMCS), or Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Administration (FMCSA)

•

An application for Operating Authority is currently being processed by FMCSA

Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

Page

If neither of the conditions above apply, then select the “NO” response.
If the “YES” response is selected, indicate the MC/FF Number (for example: MC-999999), which is also
called the lead docket number. To search for the MC/FF Number, follow the instructions provided under
“MC/FF Number” in “Information Sources” (Topic VI) in this packet.
Legal Business Name
Enter the full legal name of the business entity (i.e., corporation, sole proprietorship/individual, or
partnership) that owns/controls the Freight Forwarder operation. This should be the same name that
appears on the incorporation certificate, partnership agreement, tax records, etc. Examples are as follows:
•

Corporation — Enter the full legal name on the incorporation certificate. This name must include the
type of corporation, such as: John Doe Inc. or John Doe LLC

•

Sole Proprietorship/Individual — Enter the full legal name, such as: John A. Doe

•

Partnership — Enter the full legal names of all partners, such as: John A. Doe and Jane B. Smith

NOTE: To avoid delays in obtaining Operating Authority, the Legal Business Name on the OP-1(FF)
application must match the name submitted on insurance documents, Form BOC-3 (Designation of
Process Agents), and Form MCS-150 (Application for USDOT Number, which is required for Motor
Carriers only).
Doing Business As Name
Leave this item blank unless the Doing Business As (DBA) Name or Trade Name is different from the Legal
Business Name entered above. For example: enter “John’s Trucking Company” here if the business
operates under this name, but John A. Doe is the Legal Business Name.
NOTE: It is important to spell, space, and punctuate the business name the same exact way each time it
appears on an application; any difference will be considered a different company. For example: John
Jones Trucking Co., Inc.; J. Jones Trucking Co., Inc.; and John Jones Trucking are considered three
separate companies.
Business Address
Enter the physical street address of the company’s principal place of business. If there is more than one
business location, provide the address where most of the company’s safety records are maintained. For
example: 756 Bounty Street or 15433 State Highway 23.
NOTE: A P.O. Box may not be entered as the Business Address on the OP-1(FF) form. Also, if
applying for a USDOT Number, this Business Address must match the Principal Address on the
MCS-150 application.
Mailing Address
Enter the mailing address where all correspondence from FMCSA should be sent. Leave this item blank if
the Mailing Address is the same as the Business Address.
NOTE: In order to receive pertinent FMCSA notices and verification that insurance documents have
been filed on the applicant's behalf, please notify FMCSA of Business or Mailing Address changes by one
of the following methods:
•

Online at http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov

•

Fax information to 202-366-3477

•

Mail information in writing to 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, MC-RIO, Washington, DC 20590,
Attention: Address Change

Please include Legal Business Name and MC Number (also called lead docket number).
Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

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Representative
If someone other than the applicant is preparing the application, provide the representative's name,
title/position or relationship to the applicant, business address, and business telephone and fax numbers.
This representative will be contacted if questions concerning this application arise.
USDOT Number
Enter the USDOT Number if one has been assigned. Freight Forwarders are not required to obtain a
USDOT Number unless they also operate as an interstate Motor Carrier or meet other specific conditions.
For more information, please consult “What Forms Do I Need to Complete?” at
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/reg-forms to determine whether a USDOT Number must be obtained.
To find a company’s USDOT Number, use either method below:
•

Go to http://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
1) Then click “Licensing & Insurance” under “FMCSA Searches”
2) Enter a Legal Name or DBA Name AND the State in which the company headquarters are
located
3) C
lick “Search”

•

Call FMCSA at 1-800-832-5660

NOTE: All applicants subject to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations are required to register with
the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation before
beginning business operations. For more information, please visit FMCSA’s Web site at
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/online-registration or call 1-800-832-5660.
Form of Business

Select only one category and provide the requested information:

•

Corporation — Provide the name of the State where the corporation is incorporated.

•

Sole Proprietorship/Individual — Provide the full legal name of the individual who is the business
owner. This name should match the name entered under Legal Business Name.

•

Partnership — Provide the full legal name of each partner. These names should match the names
entered under Legal Business Name.

SECTION II – Type of Operating Authority

All Freight Forwarder applicants must complete this section. Check all boxes that apply.

NOTE: A $300 fee is required for each type of Operating Authority requested. Carefully select only the
type(s) of Operating Authority relevant to the business. FMCSA does not refund application fees.
In general, Freight Forwarders provide interstate transportation of property or household goods for
compensation and typically do all of the following:
•

Perform or provide assembly or consolidation of less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments into fulltruckload shipments at origin, then disassembly and delivery of LTL shipments at destination

•

Assume responsibility for the transportation of goods from origin to destination

•

Use for-hire Motor Carriers to provide any part of the transportation

•

Take possession of the property or household goods at some point during the transportation (often at
a warehouse)

Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

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FMCSA issues the following two types of interstate Operating Authority for Freight Forwarders:
•

Freight Forwarder of Property (except Household Goods) — An individual, partnership, or
corporation that arranges interstate transportation of property (excluding household goods)
belonging to others.

•

Freight Forwarder of Household Goods — An individual, partnership, or corporation that arranges
interstate transportation of household goods, unaccompanied baggage, or used automobiles
belonging to others. Household goods are personal items that will be used in a home. They include
items moved from one household to another. They also include items shipped from a factory or
store, if purchased with the intent to use in a home, and transported at the request of the
householder who pays for the transportation charges.

SECTION III – Insurance Information
All Freight Forwarder applicants must complete this section. Select only one of the following
categories:
•

Applicant will operate one or more vehicle having a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000
pounds or more …

•

Applicant will operate only vehicles having a GVWR under 10,000 pounds …

•

Applicant seeks a waiver of liability (BI & PD) insurance requirements …

Applicants that select a vehicle-operating category above should then check all boxes that apply within that
category.
Freight Forwarders that will perform transfer, collection, or delivery service must maintain
appropriate levels of bodily injury and property damage (BI & PD) insurance and environmental
restoration coverage. The BI & PD liability insurance coverage requirements are based upon the GVWR of
vehicles that will be operated and the classification of property (including hazardous materials) that will be
transported. To determine the required minimum amount of liability insurance coverage, identify the highest
dollar amount in parentheses among the insurance categories that are selected. For example, if the boxes
for both non-hazardous commodities ($750,000) and hazardous materials ($5,000,000) are checked, then
the required minimum insurance coverage is $5,000,000 (not $5,750,000).
Freight Forwarders that will not operate commercial motor vehicles (CMV) may request a waiver of BI
& PD insurance requirements by selecting the appropriate response in this section of the application form
and certifying that all of the following conditions are true in the Freight Forwarder’s operations:
•

Will not own or operate any motor vehicles used on highways in the transportation of property

•

Will not perform transfer, collection, or delivery services

•

Will not have motor vehicles operated under its direction and control in the performance of transfer,
collection, or delivery services

NOTE:
•

All Freight Forwarders must maintain minimum levels of cargo insurance (Form BMC-34 for
cargo liability) in the amount of:
o $5,000 for loss of or damage to property carried on any one motor vehicle
o $10,000 for loss of or damage to (or aggregate of losses of or damages to) property occurring
at any one time and place

•

Freight Forwarders of Household Goods that will operate CMVs must maintain $750,000
minimum BI & PD insurance regardless of the GVWR of the company’s vehicles.

•

For more information about FMCSA’s insurance requirements, see “Step 4” under “What Are the
Steps in Getting Operating Authority?” (Topic IV) in this packet.

Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

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SECTION IV – Certification Household Goods
Only those applying for Operating Authority as a Freight Forwarder of Household Goods (in
SECTION II of this application) must complete this section. Select the “YES” response only if the
applicant can certify that all statements in this section are true.

SECTION V – Safety Certification
Only vehicle-operating Freight Forwarder applicants must complete this section. Select only one
response.
Applicants that will only operate vehicles with a GVWR under 10,000 pounds and will not transport
hazardous materials are exempt from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). Skip to the
paragraph with the heading “EXEMPT APPLICANTS,” read the corresponding statement, and select the
“YES” response in this part only if the applicant certifies that the entire statement is true.
All other applicants that will operate vehicles with a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds must read the
statements under “APPLICANTS SUBJECT TO FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY REGULATIONS.”
These statements describe the activities that vehicle-operating Freight Forwarders must follow in order to
comply with the FMCSRs. Select the “YES” response in this part only if the applicant certifies that all
statements are true.

SECTION VI – Control Relationships
All Freight Forwarder applicants must complete this section. Read the statement and select the
appropriate response. If the “YES” response is selected, provide the requested information.

SECTION VII – Affiliations
Only applicants with any relationship within the past 3 years to any business entity
regulated/licensed by the FMCSA, ICC, FHWA, or OMCS must complete this section.
Examples of an affiliation or relationship include, but are not limited to, owning another company (even a
percentage of stock), providing a loan to another company, managing another company, or having a family
relationship with an owner or manager of another company.
Disclose any past or current relationship within the last 3 years by providing the following:
•

Description of affiliation or relationship

•

Name of the company

•

MC/FF Number

•

USDOT Number

•

Latest DOT safety rating (for more information, see “Information Sources” (Topic VI) in this packet)

SECTION VIII – Applicant’s Oath
All applicants must complete this section. False certifications are subject to the penalties described in
the oath.

Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

Page 11

Type or print the name and title of an individual authorized to sign documents on behalf of the company that
is applying for Operating Authority. The authorized signer is one of the following:
•

In the case of a sole proprietorship, the owner

•

In the case of a partnership, an official partner

•

In the case of a corporation, an authorized employee in the ownership structure

•

An individual with power of attorney to act on behalf of the applicant (proof of the power of attorney
must be submitted with the application)

NOTE: If this application is not signed and dated by an authorized individual, the application will be
REJECTED and interstate Operating Authority will NOT be issued.

VI. Information Sources
For general information and guidance regarding applications, please visit the FMCSA Web site at

http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov or call FMCSA at 1-800-832-5660.

Status of Application, Insurance, and Process Agent Filings
To check the status, use either of the following methods after FMCSA has processed your application:
•

Go to the FMCSA Web site at http://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov and do the following:
1) Read the introductory page and click “Continue”
2) Select “Carrier Search” in the dropdown menu and click “Go”
3) Follow the search instructions (for State, enter the location of the company headquarters)

•

Call FMCSA's automated telephone system toll-free at 1-866-637-0635. Please have your MC/FF
Number (also called docket number) ready if it has already been assigned (for more information, see
Step 2 in “What Are the Steps in Getting Operating Authority?” (Topic IV) in this packet).

MC/FF Number
To find a company’s MC/FF Number, go to http://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov and conduct a search as follows:
1) Read the introductory page and click “Continue”
2) Select “Carrier Search” in the dropdown menu and click “Go”
3) Follow the search instructions (for State, enter the location of the company headquarters)
Those without Internet access can call 202-385-2423 or 1-800-832-5660 for assistance.

USDOT Number Registration
To obtain a USDOT Number, either apply online or by mail as follows:
•

Apply online at http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/online-registration, which provides a USDOT Number
immediately after successful completion of the online form.

•

Go to http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/print-form, print the appropriate MCS-150 form(s), and mail the
completed form(s) to FMCSA. Those without Internet access should call 1-800-832-5660 to request
forms by mail.

Hazardous Materials Regulations
To determine whether any of the commodities you intend to transport are considered to be hazardous
materials, refer to the Federal Hazardous Materials Regulations in Parts 100 through 185 of Title 49 of the
Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), particularly the Hazardous Materials Table at 49 CFR Part 172. These
Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

Page

regulations are available online at http://hazmat.dot.gov/regs/rules.htm. Contact the FMCSA at 202-366­
6121 if assistance is needed.
To obtain information about DOT hazardous material transportation registration requirements, call 202-366­
4109.

Safety Rating
If a safety rating has already been assigned, view your status online at http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov (click
“Company Safety Snapshot”) or call 1-800-832-5660.
To request a safety fitness review, please contact your local FMCSA field office. To find contact information
for your local field office, either:
•

Visit the FMCSA Web site at http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/field-office

•

Call 1-800-832-5660

Instructions for Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

Page 13

OMB No. 2126-0016

Expiration Date 1/8/2010

A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that
collection of information displays a currently valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2126-0016. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 2 hours per response, including
the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Send comments regarding
this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Systems Operations Team, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590-0001.

FORM OP-1(FF) APPLICATION FOR FREIGHT FORWARDER AUTHORITY

U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

This application is for businesses
requesting operating authority as a
freight forwarder in interstate or foreign
commerce. Freight forwarders arrange
transportation of goods by FMCSA-licensed
carriers. Freight forwarders issue bills of
lading to shippers and are responsible for
the loss of or damage to the goods.

SECTION I

FOR FMCSA USE ONLY
Docket No. FF-

Fee No.

Filed

CC Approval No.

Applicant Information

Do you now have operating authority from or an application being processed by the FMCSA, FHWA, OMCS, or ICC?
YES

If YES, identify the MC/FF Number (or lead docket number):

NO

DOING BUSINESS AS NAME (If different from Legal Business Name)

LEGAL BUSINESS NAME
BUSINESS ADDRESS
Physical Street Name and Number (No P.O. Box)

City

State

Zip Code

MAILING ADDRESS (If different from Business Address above)
Street Name and Number

City

State

Zip Code

REPRESENTATIVE (Person who can respond to inquiries)
Name

Title, Position, or Relationship to Applicant

Street Name and Number

City

Telephone Number
USDOT NUMBER

State

Zip Code

Fax Number
(If available; if not, see instructions)

FORM OF BUSINESS

(Select only one)

Corporation

State of Incorporation

Sole Proprietorship

Legal Name of Owner

Partnership

Legal Name of Each Partner
(separate names with a comma)

SECTION II

Type of Operating Authority

Check box(es) for each type of Operating Authority requested. You must submit a filing fee of $300.00 for each box checked.
Freight Forwarder of Property (except Household Goods)

Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

Freight Forwarder of Household Goods

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Telephone Number

SECTION III

OMB No. 2126-0016

Insurance Information

Freight forwarders that perform transfer, collection, and delivery service must maintain appropriate levels of bodily injury and property damage (BI & PD) insurance and
environmental restoration coverage. The dollar amounts in parentheses represent the minimum amount of BI & PD liability insurance coverage that companies must maintain
and have on file with the FMCSA. NOTE: All freight forwarders must maintain minimum levels of cargo insurance. See the instructions for more details.

Select only one category below. Within each vehicle-operating category, check all boxes that apply.
Applicant will operate one or more vehicle(s) having a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 pounds or more to transport:
Non-hazardous commodities ($750,000)
Hazardous materials referenced in the FMCSA’s insurance regulations at 49 CFR § 387.303(b)(2)(c) ($1,000,000)
Hazardous materials referenced in the FMCSA’s insurance regulations at 49 CFR § 387.303(b)(2)(b) ($5,000,000)
Applicant will operate only vehicles having gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR) under 10,000 pounds to transport:
Any quantity of Class A or B explosives, any quantity of poison gas (Poison A), or highway route controlled quantity of radioactive materials ($5,000,000)
Commodities other than those listed above ($300,000)
Applicant seeks a waiver of liability (BI & PD) insurance requirements and certifies that in its forwarding operations it:
(1) will not own or operate any motor vehicles upon the highways in the transportation of property;
(2) will not perform transfer, collection, or delivery services; and
(3) will not have motor vehicles operated under its direction and control in the performance of transfer collection, or delivery services.

SECTION IV

Certification of Household Goods

All applicants for operating authority as a Freight Forwarder of Household Goods (in Section II of this application) must certify as follows:
Applicant is fit, willing, and able to provide household goods freight-forwarding operations and to comply with all pertinent statutory and regulatory requirements. This
assessment of fitness includes applicant’s general familiarity with former ICC, FHWA, OMCS, now FMCSA regulations for household goods movements. The proposed
operations will be consistent with the public interest and the transportation policy of 49 U.S.C. 10101 and applicant will offer arbitration as a means of settling loss and
damage disputes on collect-on-delivery shipments.

YES

SECTION V

NO

Safety Certification (for vehicle-operating freight forwarder applicants only)

APPLICANTS SUBJECT TO FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY REGULATIONS
If you will operate vehicles of more than 10,000 pounds GVWR and are, thus, subject to pertinent portions of the U.S. DOT’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
(FMCSRs) at 49 CFR, Chapter 3, Subchapter B (Parts 350-399), you must certify as follows:
Applicant has access to and is familiar with all applicable U.S. DOT regulations relating to the safe operation of commercial vehicles and the safe transportation
of hazardous materials and it will comply with these regulations. In so certifying, applicant is verifying that, at a minimum, it:

(1) Has in place a system and an individual responsible for ensuring overall compliance with FMCSRs;
(2) Can produce a copy of the FMCSRs and the Hazardous Materials Transportation Regulations;
(3) Has in place a driver safety training/orientation program;
(4) Has prepared and maintains an accident register (49 CFR Part 390.15);
(5) Is familiar with DOT regulations governing driver qualifications and has in place a system for overseeing driver qualification requirements (49 CFR Part 391);
(6) Has in place policies and procedures consistent with DOT regulations governing driving and operational safety of motor vehicles, including drivers’ hours
of service and vehicle inspection, repair, and maintenance (49 CFR Parts 392, 395, and 396);

(7) Is familiar with and will have in place on the appropriate effective date, a system for complying with U.S. DOT regulations governing alcohol and controlled
substances testing requirements (49 CFR Part 382 and 49 CFR Part 40).

YES

NO

EXEMPT APPLICANTS

If you will operate only small vehicles (GVWR under 10,000 pounds) and will not transport hazardous materials, you are exempt from Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations, and must certify as follows:
Applicant is familiar with and will observe general operational safety guidelines, as well as any applicable State and local laws and requirements relating to the safe
operation of commercial motor vehicles and the safe transportation of hazardous materials.

YES

NO

Form OP-1 (FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

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SECTION VI

OMB No. 2126-0016

Control Relationships

Applicant is engaged principally in the business of manufacturing, buying, or selling articles and commodities, or is in control of, controlled by, or under common control with
any such entity.

YES

NO

If YES, describe the relationship and indicate to what extent the involved entity engaged in manufacturing, buying, or selling commodities uses the services of freight
forwarders. If applicant itself is engaged in manufacturing, buying, or selling as described above, indicate to what extent it performs its own forwarding operations in
conjunction with the assembly, consolidation, and shipment of the commodities it manufactures, buys, or sells.

SECTION VII

Affiliations

Disclose any relationship you have or have had with any other FMCSA-regulated entity (including entities licensed by the FHWA, OMCS, or ICC) within the past 3 years.
Examples include, but are not limited to, a percentage of stock ownership, a loan, or a management position. If this requirement applies to you, provide the name of the
company, MC/FF Number, USDOT Number, and that company’s latest DOT safety rating. If you require more space, attach the information to this application form.

SECTION VIII

Applicant’s Oath

This oath applies to all supplemental filings to this application. The signature must be that of the applicant, not the legal representative.

I,

(Print Name)

, verify under penalty of perjury, under the laws of the United States of America,

that all information supplied on this form or relating to this application is true and correct. Further, I certify that I am qualified and authorized to file this application.
I know that willful misstatements or omissions of material facts constitute Federal criminal violations punishable under 18 U.S.C. 1001 by imprisonment up to 5
years and fines up to $10,000 for each offense. Additionally, these misstatements are punishable as perjury under 18 U.S.C. 1621, which provides for fines up
to $2,000 or imprisonment up to 5 years for each offense.
I further certify under penalty of perjury, under the laws of the United States, that I have not been convicted, after September 1, 1989, of any Federal or State
offense involving the distribution or possession of a controlled substance, or that if I have been so convicted, I am not ineligible to receive Federal benefits,
either by court order or operation of law, pursuant to Section 5301 of the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988 (21 U.S.C. 862).

Signature

Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

Title

Date

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Form OP-1(FF)
Payment Instructions
1) Each type of operating authority requested in Section II of the application form requires a $300 processing fee.
Calculate the total amount due as follows:

(Enter total number of boxes
checked in Section II)

X

$300 =

$

(Enter total payment amount)

2) Select payment method:
Check or Money Order - Make payable to FMCSA in United States (U.S.) dollars.
Payment must be drawn upon funds deposited in a bank located in the U.S.
Credit Card - Complete the Credit Card Payment Authorization below.

Credit Card Payment Authorization
Select Credit Card

Visa

Total Payment Amount

MasterCard

Credit Card Number

Expiration Date

Name (exactly as it appears on credit card)
Credit Card Billing Address
Street Name and Number
City

State

Signature

Mailing Instructions

Zip Code
Date

(To apply online, please see “How to Apply” (Topic II) in this packet.)

1) Save a copy of the completed application form(s), all supporting documents (if any), and payment details for the company’s business records.
2) Depending upon the type of payment (and method of mail delivery), send the completed application form(s), any supporting documents, and payment to one of the following
addresses (NOTE: Sending payment to the wrong address will delay application processing by 2-3 weeks):
Check or Money Order
First-Class Mail
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
P.O. Box 530226
Atlanta, GA 30353-0226
Express Mail
Bank of America
Lockbox #530226
1075 Loop Road
Atlanta, GA 30337
Credit Card
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, MC-RIO
Washington, DC 20590

Form OP-1(FF) (Revised 6/28/2011)

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