Most Common UCR Violations and Their Consequences

As a professional in the trucking industry, the last thing you want to do is neglect your UCR registration for 2025. This document is essential if you intend to travel across state lines as a motor carrier. A UCR violation comes with stiff consequences that could impact your business. 

If you're unsure about this document, its importance, and what could happen if you don't have it, you're not alone. Below, FMCA Filings explains what you need to know about this Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requirement and how it could impact your business.

What Is UCR Registration?

Unified Carrier Registration is a federally mandated registration system through the FMCSA. It tracks all commercial motor vehicle operators and relevant parties in North America who transport goods or people across state lines.

The system got its start in 2005 as a way to replace outdated driver documentation. With this registration, the Department of Transportation can manage or record the following:

• Compliance requirements
• Details of each transportation participant
• Cargo management

It doesn't matter if you travel only across one state line or multiple ones — you must complete and file your registration each year to avoid UCR violations. 

Do You Have To Have a UCR Registration?

All North American motor carriers operating commercial vehicles over state or international lines must file a UCR. That includes private businesses and freelancing individuals who haul goods, passengers, or hazardous materials in exchange for money.  

Leasing companies that provide rental vehicles to freelance truckers for interstate hauling may also need to submit a Unified Carrier Registration to comply with regulations if their trucks cross state lines. Also, freight brokers that organize the transport of goods between shippers and carriers would need to register for UCR since their work impacts interstate hauling. 

Do All 50 States Participate in UCR Registration?

Although the UCR is a federal mandate, not every state participates in the program. The outlier states include:

• The District of Columbia
• Wyoming
• Vermont
• Oregon
• New Jersey
• Nevada
• Maryland
• Hawaii
• Florida
• Arizona

Even if you work from or cross into one of these states, you must still have a UCR registration. If your state doesn't participate in the program, you must register through the nearest participating state.

Common Mistakes During Registration

One of the most commonly asked UCR questions is, "What are some examples of UCR violations?" Here are the mistakes you should avoid. 

Missed Deadlines

Unified Carrier Registration enforcement starts every year on January 1st. As such, you must file the documentation no later than December 31st. Waiting too long will cause you to miss the deadline, putting your registry in delinquent status and leaving you at risk of a violation. 

Providing False, Misleading, or Outdated Information

Although the deadline for filing UCR seldom changes, your information might differ from year to year. Whenever you submit your document, ensure you provide accurate information to avoid preventable UCR violations. That includes your business's details, your personal information, and the services your business offers.

Incorrect Fleet Size Reporting

Sometimes, MCs unintentionally report incorrect details about their fleet, such as the number of vehicles they operate, which could be due to a recent truck purchase or a sale. Unfortunately, accidentally or intentionally misrepresenting your fleet size can cause significant problems for your business and other parties. 

What Happens if You Fail UCR Compliance?

UCR compliance is a must if you don't want to deal with fines and penalties, which can include:

• Fines up to $5,000
• Legal issues for your business
• State-specific penalties
• Removal of your vehicles from service

The penalties for UCR violations are strict because the registry helps keep roads safe. Federal enforcement officials use the program to access important information, so if you get caught across state lines without a Unified Carrier Registration and qualify for one, you could experience serious consequences on the state and federal levels.

Avoid Penalties and Fines From Failed UCR Registration — Contact FMCA Filings for Help

As a motor carrier, freight broker, or leasing company, you must accommodate all FMCSA regulations, including completing your Unified Carrier Registration accurately and on time. Otherwise, state enforcement agencies could penalize you with hefty fines or legal complications.

Thankfully, our team at FMCA Filings can help you avoid UCR violations. We have ample experience and up-to-date knowledge about the confusing paperwork those in the transportation industry must complete and file, including UCR for freight brokers and MCs.

Count on us to meet all deadlines and ensure your business's compliance. Contact us today to discuss your registration needs.