MC Number – Operating Authority
What is MC Number?
In addition to USDOT, few Trucking carriers also need an Operating Authority (MC Number). Motor Carrier number is an interstate operating authority and unique identifier allocated by the FMCSA to carrier companies operating in interstate commerce (hauling loads in more than one state) or hauling risky supplies.
However, all interstate carriers must carry and display their USDOT number on their commercial carriers whereas all moving companies are not required to have MC numbers.
Who needs it?
Carrier companies which work as rental (for-hire) interstate transport service providers to move passengers or federal regulated goods directly or indirectly across state lines are required to have an interstate operating authority MC number in addition to a USDOT number.
*Rental (for-hire) carriers that only haul federally unregulated cargos are not required to have an MC number.
Eligible Carriers
| USDOT Number | MC Number | |
| Needed for interstate commerce | Yes | Yes |
| Needed for intrastate commerce | Yes | No |
| Needed to haul your own commodity | Yes | No |
| Needed to haul your own construction equipment | Yes | No |
| Working for-hire to haul someone else’s property | Yes | Yes |