When and Why Do I Need to File a BOC-3 Form?

If you're starting a trucking company or even just thinking about it, you probably have a lot of questions. One of the most common questions people in your shoes ask is, "Do I need to file a BOC-3 form?"

In short, yes, any new trucking or transportation company must complete and file this form if they want to operate in the United States. This applies whether you plan to operate as a freight forwarder, motor carrier, or broker. 

Starting a new company is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. To help you get started, here is everything you need to know about BOC-3 filing.

First, What Is the BOC-3 Form?

When completing the BOC-3 form, you fill it in using the names and addresses of anyone you authorize to receive legal documents on your behalf in the U.S. The "BOC" stands for "blanket of coverage," and filing this form essentially provides proof that you have a processes agent in each state that you plan to operate in.

Typically, these names are the names of companies, but they can also be the names of individuals, depending on how you plan to operate. 

After completing this form, whether by filling out a physical piece of paper or doing it online, you must file it with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). Typically, an agent completes the BOC-3 filing for you, but we'll talk more about that later. 

The BOC-3 Process Agent

When filing the BOC-3 form, you'll need a process agent. The BOC-3 Process Agent, or FMCSA agent, is a business or individual that you appoint to receive any legal documents on your behalf, such as legal summons or complaints. If you plan to operate your trucking business in more than one state, you must have a BOC-3 agent in every state that you plan to operate in. 

However, in some cases, you can have one agent that covers you in multiple states. This makes the BOC-3 filing process a lot easier. 

How Do You Complete the BOC-3 Form?

Now that you know what the form is, you're probably wondering, "How do I need to file a BOC-3 form?"

Typically, the BOC-3 process agent completes and files this form online. However, motor carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders can also file this form on their own behalf. 

Filing the BOC-3 form is simple with Federal Motor Carrier Authority Filings. The form requires you the following information:

• The full name and the address of the carrier, broker, or freight forwarder
• The name of the person authorized to sign and their title
• The street address and name of the SOP (Service of Process) agent for each state that you plan to operate in

You also only have 90 days to file this form once the FMCSA Register publishes the Operating Authority application. If you don't meet this strict deadline, the FMCSA will dismiss your application. 

How Long Does BOC-3 Filing Take?

Once you choose your BOC-3 process agent, you must pay their fees and whatever else they require from you. Once you do so, they often file the form within a couple of business days. 

Then, once the FMCSA receives the form, they will typically mail you your Operating Authority documents in three or four business days. 

Do You Need to Refile the BOC-3 Form?

If there are ever any changes of details, like a transfer of authority or name change, you must refile the BOC-3 form. 

How Much Does it Cost to File a BOC-3 Form?

The cost of filing a BOC-3 form depends on several different factors. At Federal Motor Carrier Authority Filings, appointing and registering your BOC-3 agent costs you only $95, and we help guide you through every step with the help of our Live Agent services.

Depending on your type of motor carrier or trucking company, there may be other fees involved to learn more about the fees involved with filing a BOC-3 Form or to answer any questions, please reach out to us at Federal Motor Carrier Authority Filings.

After the BOC-3 Filing

So what happens after your process agent files the BOC-3 form?

Most commonly, the FMCSA will typically mail you the Operating Authority documents three to four days after receiving the completed BOC-3 form. 

If you have yet to receive your documents ten or more days after the grant date, you should contact us, or you can also check the issue status of your Operating Authority documents by checking the FMCSA Licensing and Insurance website. 

Hopefully, now you know the answers to "Do I need to file a BOC-3 form?" and "What does BOC-3 processing agent stand for?" If you have more questions, FMCA Filings can help. 

We help businesses across the country with their U.S. DOT compliance needs. Contact us or talk with one of our professionals today to learn more.