FMCSA registration information has always been important, but the launch of Motus has raised the stakes for motor carriers, brokers, freight forwarders, and the companies that support them.
Motus is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s new centralized registration system. It replaces several older, disconnected systems and gives companies one place to manage USDOT registration information, operating authority, filings, authorized users, and other important records.
With more information connected in one system, outdated or conflicting details can create registration delays, account-access problems, credibility concerns, and potential compliance issues. Keeping your records accurate is no longer something to address only during a biennial update. It should be part of your company’s regular compliance routine.
Motus Creates a More Connected Company Record
One of FMCSA’s goals for Motus is to centralize registration data that was previously spread across different systems. Companies can now use Motus to update business information, manage registrations, complete biennial updates, track registration actions, and maintain operating authority information.
Members of the public can also search for registered entities through Motus. That means shippers, brokers, insurers, business partners, and enforcement personnel may rely on the same information when reviewing a transportation company.
In practical terms, inconsistencies are likely to be more noticeable. A business name, address, telephone number, or operating classification that doesn’t match the company’s actual operations may raise questions or slow down an application, update, or filing.
What Information Should Your Company Review?
Companies should regularly review the following information in their FMCSA record:
- Legal business name and DBA name
- Principal place of business and mailing address
- Business telephone number and email address
- USDOT Number and operating authority information
- Operating classifications
- Cargo classifications
- Vehicle and driver information
- Company official and authorized account users
- Process agent and BOC-3 information
FMCSA specifically instructed companies preparing for Motus to confirm their company information, operating classification, contact information, and authorized users. Company officials should also maintain control over who can access or modify registration information.
Accurate Information Helps Protect Your Registration
Incorrect information can affect more than how your company appears in a database. It can interfere with your ability to complete registration actions, receive important notices, or verify your company’s identity.
For example, the company official responsible for claiming and managing a Motus account must be properly connected to the company’s record. Authorized users should be reviewed when employees change roles or leave the business. Former employees, consultants, or service providers shouldn’t continue to have access unless they still have a legitimate reason to manage the account.
Motus users access the system through Login.gov and complete identity verification before creating or managing profiles. These added security measures are intended to reduce unauthorized registration changes and fraudulent activity.
Your Registration Record Also Affects Business Credibility
Transportation companies are regularly reviewed before a load is tendered, a contract is signed, or an insurance policy is issued. Public FMCSA information is often part of that review.
A company record that includes the correct business name, contact information, operating status, and authority details helps demonstrate that the business is legitimate and actively maintaining its federal registration.
On the other hand, mismatched addresses, disconnected phone numbers, incorrect classifications, or unfamiliar authorized contacts can look like warning signs. Even when the error is innocent, it may delay onboarding or cause a potential partner to look more closely at the company.
BOC-3 and Process Agent Information Must Also Stay Current
Companies required to maintain operating authority generally need a valid BOC-3 process agent designation. Your process agent needs reliable contact information so legal documents and government notices can be delivered to the right person at your company.
Federal regulations require changes to a process agent designation, including changes to names, addresses, or contact information, to be reported to FMCSA within 30 days. Transportation companies must also notify their process agent or blanket company when their own contact information changes.
Logistec/TTS can help companies manage their BOC-3 Process Service and keep important contact information current.
Make FMCSA Record Reviews Part of Your Routine
Don’t wait for a problem, application, or enforcement notice before checking your information. Build a review into your regular compliance schedule.
At a minimum:
- Sign in to Motus and review your company account.
- Confirm your legal name, address, email, and telephone number.
- Review operating and cargo classifications.
- Confirm that your operating authority information matches your current business activities.
- Remove users who should no longer have access.
- Verify that your BOC-3 service and process agent contact information are current.
- Correct errors promptly instead of waiting for the next biennial update.
The FMCSA Motus resource page and registration video library provide additional instructions for managing accounts and registration information.
Get Help Maintaining Your FMCSA Information
Logistec/TTS assists transportation companies with USDOT registration, Operating Authority, BOC-3 process service, and other federal and state requirements.
Whether you’re applying for the first time or correcting an existing record, accurate information can help prevent unnecessary delays and keep your business moving. Contact our team with questions about your registration or filing requirements.