Filing a BOC-3 form is one of the required steps to earn trucking authority as well as a requirement for all transportation companies operating across state lines. Federal law requires motor carriers to complete this filing with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) before operating under their authority.
Here’s what it is and how it works.
What is a BOC-3 form?
BOC-3 stands for “Blanket of Coverage.” It designates a process agent who can receive legal documents on behalf of a trucking company. The filing is submitted directly to the FMCSA. Most BOC-3 filings are completed online through the Unified Registration System (URS), although paper filing options are also available. Only a designated process agent can complete this filing.
Who needs a BOC-3?
Motor carriers, freight forwarders, and freight brokers operating across state lines are all required to file a BOC-3 to obtain operating authority. The BOC-3 is especially important for legal actions or official notices.
What is a process agent?
A process agent is the person who receives legal documents for your company. You give the FMCSA a business address, but the process agent is the permanent contact, so legal papers reach you even when your drivers are on the road.
How often do you need to file a BOC-3?
A BOC-3 filing is generally a one-time requirement and doesn’t need annual renewal. However, fleets may need to refile a BOC-3 if:
- The company name changes.
- Operating authority is transferred.
- Motor carrier operating authority is reinstated.
Does a BOC-3 expire?
No. Once filed, a BOC-3 remains active as long as the company’s operating authority remains active.
How much does a BOC-3 cost?
The cost of a BOC-3 filing depends on the process agent selected. Some processing agencies charge by the number of states the fleet operates in. However, many fleets choose nationwide coverage that includes all 50 states and the District of Columbia. FleetDrive 360 from PrePass® includes BOC-3 filing support as an option in its trucking authority solution.
Can you file your own BOC-3?
No. Interstate trucking companies can’t legally file their own BOC-3 because a designated BOC-3 filer is required. Since fleets are often operating away from their physical business address, process agents give the FMCSA a permanent address to send legal documents. A fleet may act as its own process agent within its base state, but process agents are still required in other states.
Why work with PrePass for BOC-3 filings?
The process agent you pick has to receive documents and forward them quickly. FleetDrive 360 from PrePass can act as your process agent in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Once it’s filed, you don’t have to think about it again.