Are UCR and MCS-150 the Same Thing?

It's not hard to mistakenly conflate FMCSA registration requirements. Two of the most common ones are the Unified Carrier Registration and the FMCSA MCS-150 form. Carriers might automatically lump these filings together, but are UCR and MCS-150 the same thing?

Below, our compliance team breaks it down to clarify these two filings and reveal whether they're one and the same. Information like this is part of how FMCA Filings can help your transport business ensure full compliance.

What Is the Purpose of Each Filing?

Before diving into these filings, it’s important to understand their roles in the FMCSA’s regulatory system.

FMCSA MCS-150 Form Explanation

The FMCSA MCS-150, also called the Motor Carrier Identification Report, gives the organization information about carriers' business operations. Fleet size, cargo types, and mileage come into it. It’s also how carriers apply for or update their USDOT number.  

For carriers to stay compliant, they should:

• File every two years, based on the USDOT number sequence.
• Update within 30 days of any changes to the fleet size, cargo type, and other factors.
• Always verify the information before UCR registration.

Failing to file or update the FMCSA MCS-150 form can lead to some serious consequences for carriers. The FMCSA may deactivate your USDOT number, making it illegal to operate. They can also assess civil penalties of up to $1,000 per day (up to about $10,000 in total).

Unified Carrier Registration Explanation

You've seen that the answer to "Are UCR and MCS-150 the same thing?" is no. So, you need to consider the Unified Carrier Registration separately. This yearly fee-based program funds motor carrier safety initiatives. You register your business, not individual trucks, and pay for the number of commercial motor vehicles you operate in interstate commerce. 

The fee your company pays will fund enforcement efforts like inspections and audits across the 41 participating states. Not filing by the UCR filing deadline can result in:

• Fines ranging from $200 to $5,000
• Potential vehicle detainment
• Delays in IFTA credentials or registration renewals

If your company operates in a non-participating state but operates across state lines, you must still register through a participating state.

UCR vs. MCS-150: What’s the Difference?

So, what’s the real difference between UCR and MCS-150? Though both filings relate to motor carrier compliance, they’re completely separate. Each filing has different requirements and falls under different enforcement agencies. For example:

• Purpose: The MCS-150 is informational and tied to your USDOT number. The UCR is a revenue-based program that supports safety enforcement.
• Frequency: You must file MCS-150 every two years or within 30 days of a change to your business information. You must file and pay the UCR fees annually. The UCR filing deadline is December 31.
• Cost: MCS-150 is free. UCR charges a tiered fee based on your fleet size.
• Enforcement: The FMCSA enforces MCS-150 compliance. The UCR enforcement occurs at the state level, often during roadside inspections.

These differences matter. Filing one doesn’t exempt you from the other. Overlooking either could result in costly penalties for a carrier.

How Are the UCR and MCS-150 Connected?

Are UCR and MCS-150 the same thing? No, but even though these are different filings, UCR and MCS-150 overlap in one critical way: your UCR fee tier follows the fleet size listed on your most recent MCS-150 form. 

Was your MCS-150 up to date and accurate? If not, your UCR registration amount might require you to pay the wrong amount. That’s why compliance experts like FMCA Filings recommend reviewing or updating your MCS-150 data thoroughly before submitting your annual UCR registration. 

Why not keep both current so that your carrier’s fees are correct and the system doesn’t flag you for non-compliance during inspections? It could save you a lot of hassle down the line.

How FMCA Filings Can Simplify Carrier Compliance

At FMCA Filings, we understand the challenge of keeping track of federal deadlines. There are multi-step processes and confusing terminology. That’s why we’ve created a streamlined online system that lets carriers handle everything in one place. 

With the hassle-free online portal, there's no guesswork. You won't miss critical deadlines or need to dig through government websites. Talk to us about the steps, handling filings, and submitting accurate, on-time paperwork.

Stay Ahead of Your Carrier Registration Requirements With FMCA Filings

Are UCR and MCS-150 the same thing? No, but both items are mandatory FMCSA registration requirements. Remember:

• Keep your MCS-150 current to avoid deactivation
• Ensure UCR compliance before the annual deadline

Let’s make your DOT compliance process fast and simple. Contact FMCA Filings to handle the details via our online form or speak directly to a compliance specialist using our live chat feature.