This is how you can obtain BOC- 3 forms and register your company with the FMCSA

If you are thinking of starting a transportation company, then you have to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, the trucking industry in the USA is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For you to operate in any state of the USA, you have to obtain a BOC-3 form from FMCSA. This form is necessary because it will designate a person or an office to receive legal papers on your behalf in any state you do business, or just passing through. He will then forward those papers to you. 

Who is an SOP Agent:

This agent is called a ‘Service of process (SOP) agent.’ This agent can file the BOC-3 form on your behalf if you are a motor carrier. However, if you are a broker or freight forwarder without commercial vehicles you can file the BOC-3 form yourself as a paper copy. When you file your BOC-3 form from the FMCSA website you have to enter the following information:

1. Full name and address of the carrier
2. Name of an Authorized person which will sign and that person’s title
3. The name of the SOP agent and the street address for each state

Also, as this agent is registered with the FMCSA, the agent should be physically located in each state you are authorized to operate and should be available at the given address during business hours.

Cost of an SOP agent:

The cost of appointing a SOP agent can vary from person to person or the company you are dealing with. Many agents charge a fee for an individual document. While many of them may charge a onetime BOC-3 form filling fee.

Duration for BOC-3 form processing:

After completely filling the form and filing electronically with the FMSA, they will then issue operating authority and mail the document to you. Normally, the operating authority document is sent out within 3-4 business days. However, if 10 days’ business have passed and you have not received your authority document, then contact the FMSA. In case of name change, transfer of authority, or reinstatement of your motor operating authority then your BOC-3 form may need to file again.

Benefits of having a blanket agent:

Companies can appoint SOP agent for an individual state or can appoint a blanket agent for all the states. The benefit of working with a blanket agent is that you can receive notification from only one person. You can also act as your own agent, but then, you can only operate in your own state and need to require a different agent in another state.

Selecting the right process agent:

When trying to find a process agent make sure you work with someone who is trained in service of process within the transportation industry and can ensure the secure handling of all documents.

Conclusion:

Getting a BOC-3 form is important for you to start your own trucking company. But, it is a complicated process which requires the help of a professional. A+ process of Agents, Inc. is one such company which strives to provide their services in obtaining BOC 3 form.