How to Verify a Carrier's Operating Authority

Before you tender a load or set up a new carrier, you want to be sure they're legally authorized to haul it — and that the authority is still active. Here's a clear, repeatable process you can run in a few minutes.

Step 1: Gather the carrier's MC and DOT numbers

Start with the two identifiers on the carrier's paperwork: the MC (docket) number and the USDOT number. Both should appear on their setup packet, invoices, or authority letter. If you only have one, that's usually enough to begin — but having both makes the lookup faster and removes ambiguity when a company name is common.

Step 2: Check active status on FMCSA SAFER

Enter the number on the FMCSA SAFER Company Snapshot. The snapshot shows whether the operating authority is active, and whether it has been revoked or is inactive. A carrier can have a valid USDOT number but no active operating authority — so don't stop at "the company exists." Confirm the authority itself is active for the kind of work you're tendering.

Step 3: Confirm the authority type matches the freight

Operating authority is granted by category — common carrier, contract carrier, broker, or freight forwarder — and by commodity class (property, passengers, or household goods). A property carrier isn't authorized to move household goods under that authority, and a broker can't physically haul freight. Match the authority type to the load.

Step 4: Keep the authority letter on file

The SAFER snapshot is a live status check, but the authority letter is your dated document of record. Reputable carriers can produce theirs on request. If a carrier has misplaced their original, they can retrieve a copy in minutes by searching their MC number.

Search an MC number to retrieve the authority letter directly.