What you can do to avoid an audit?

The FMCSA has a safety evaluation program called the “New Entrant Safety Audit." The new entrant’s roadside safety performance will be closely monitored to ensure the new entrant has basic safety management controls that are operating effectively.  

If the audit discovers that adequate safety controls are not present, the carrier has 60 days from the date of the notification (45 days if transporting hazardous materials or passengers) to take the actions specified in the notice, and to submit proof that it has remedied its safety management practices. If the carrier does not, they must cease operations on the 61st day. If the carrier is making a good faith effort, the FMCSA may extend the 45 or 60 days to give the carrier more time to comply.

Here are just some of the things you can do to avoid an audit:

1. Make sure all drivers have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with all required endorsements.

2. Make sure you have the required levels of insurance

3. Correct all safety violations before operating the vehicle

4. Take required random drug tests

5. Keep all records of inspection and maintenance

6. Always have a security plan when offering or transporting hazardous materials

The penalties for non-compliance vary, depending upon the severity and frequency of the offense. Some fines can continue to accrue if left unchecked. You can find more information about safety violations at www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration-licensing/NewEntrant.

At Truck Services of North America, we make it simpler to avoid FMCSA audit. TSNA takes the paperwork out of your way.  Contact us at TSNAmerica.com or call 803.386.0320.

Read More »

Packages for the New Entrant

You’ve made the decision. The time has come to operate on your own. Now let TSNA get you started. The trucking business is one of the most regulated industries in the country. Getting started on the right foot is crucial. Missteps and non-compliance can cost new carriers thousands of dollars and possibly their operating authority. Recent legislation requires new entrants to pass a mandatory DOT audit within the first 18 months of operations.

Our New Entrant Basic package includes obtaining your EIN (Employer Identification Number), US DOT Number and handles your BOC-3 filing.  We will also identify your Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) registration requirements and complete and submit all required forms to FMCSA in order for you to obtain your authority.

With Our New Entrant Plus package, we will also file your Form 2290 for Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes, required by the IRS and set up your IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) accounts and Weight Distance account if you will be conducting business in New York, New Mexico, Kentucky and/or Oregon.  We have additional services to get your state registrations and permits in place.

As a premier process service agency, Truck Services of North America provides the services and tools to help start your business and keep it compliant. Let TSNA navigate your business through the maze of paperwork! TSNA takes the paperwork out of your way.  Contact us at TSNAmerica.com or call us at 803.386.0320.

Read More »

Learn about IRS HVUT Form 2290 through Webinar

As you know, the Truck Tax Season has now begun, and the IRS Form 2290 must be filed during the months of July and August.  If you would like to learn more about this tax, you can Sign-Up for our Free Webinars about the IRS Form 2290.  These Truck Tax Education sessions will cover all the primary aspects of the Form 2290 and also explain how to file Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes.

Topics will include the following:

- What Is the IRS Form 2290?

- When to File the IRS Form 2290?

- How to File the IRS Form 2290?

- How to Pay the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax?

- What Happens If You Don't File?

When?

Friday, July 27 - 7:00pm (EST) - Sign Up For Free

All Attendees will receive $5.00 OFF their next 2290 or IFTA Filing through ExpressTruckTax!

Read More »

International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA Fuel Tax Return)

The International Fuel Tax Agreement (or IFTA) is an agreement between the lower 48 states of the United States and the Canadian provinces (except Northwestern Territories, Nunavut and Yukon), to simplify the reporting of fuel use by motor carriers that operate in more than one jurisdiction. This simplifies the process of reporting quarterly fuel tax returns.

This tax is required for motor vehicles used, designed, or maintained for transportation of persons or property and:

1. Having two axles and a gross vehicle weight rating or registered gross vehicle weight in excess of 26,000 pounds, and/or

2. Having three or more axles regardless of weight, and/or

3. Is used in combination, when the weight of such combination exceeds 26,000 pounds gross vehicle or registered gross vehicle weight.

Exceptions exist for Recreational Vehicles (such as motor homes, pickup trucks with attached campers, and buses when used exclusively for personal pleasure by an individual). Some states have their own exemptions that may apply to farm vehicles or government vehicles, so check your state for their specific exemptions.

The IFTA license offers several benefits to the interstate/inter-jurisdictional motor carrier. These benefits include one license, one set of decals per vehicle, one quarterly fuel tax report for all vehicles that reflects the net tax or refund due. Tax returns are required even if no operations were conducted or no taxable fuel was used during the reporting period. Returns that are not filed or not paid in full are considered late and will be assessed penalty and interest.

When filing a tax return, a licensee may apply the fuel overpayment generated in one jurisdiction to the taxes owed for another jurisdiction. These advantages result in cost and time savings for the carrier and the member jurisdictions.

Under IFTA, you are able to file one return in your base jurisdiction and that jurisdiction will allocate the money appropriately.  This agreement definitely simplified what used to be a very long and time-consuming process. At TruckServices of North America, we make it even simpler by preparing and filing your quarterly returns for you. TSNA takes the paperwork out of your way.  Contact us at tsnamerica.com or call 803.386.0320.

Read More »

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Enforcing Trucking Safety Rules

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration was established within the Department of Transportation on January 1, 2000 and its primary goal is to make our roadways safer for the public and commercial motor vehicles. It achieves this by placing safety as their highest priority.

The FMCSA continues work with Federal, State and local agencies to reduce and ideally eliminate crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving commercial motor vehicles. FMCSA will use education, regulations, enforcement, research, and innovative technology to achieve a safer transportation environment.

The FMCSA review companies on accountability and compliance, performance measures, safety measures and other various activities. Examples of some violations include but are not limited to, employing drivers who do not possess valid commercial driver’s licenses, employing unskilled, untrained drivers, and exceeding weight limits.

Upon review, if a company is found to be in violation of any of these, they will be shut down. The FMSCA has ordered the closure of multiple companies in the last few months and is continuing its enforcement of trucking safety rules. So be aware of the rules and regulations set forth and stay compliant so everyone will be safer on the road.

Read More »

IRS HVUT Tax Form 2290 Webinar

As you know, the Truck Tax Season has now begun, and the IRS Form 2290 must be filed during the months of July and August.  If you would like to learn more about this tax, you can Sign-Up for our Free Webinars about the IRS Form 2290. These Truck Tax Education sessions will cover all the primary aspects of the Form 2290 and also explain how to file Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes.

Topics will include the following:

- What Is the IRS Form 2290?

- When to File the IRS Form 2290?

- How to File the IRS Form 2290?

- How to Pay the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax?

- What Happens If You Don't File?

When?

Tuesday, July 24 - 11:00am (EST) - Sign Up For Free

Friday, July 27 - 7:00pm (EST) - Sign Up For Free

All Attendees will receive $5.00 OFF their next 2290 or IFTA Filing through ExpressTruckTax!

Read More »

What is an EIN (Employer Identification Number)?

An EIN is an Employer Identification Number, also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, and is used to verify a business entity.  If you are filing Form 2290 for Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT), you will also need an EIN to file the return. The IRS will no longer accept Social Security Numbers for the Form 2290.

If you do not have an EIN, you can apply for one online through the IRS website or if you don’t have the time or unable to get to a computer, you can have a service provider, like Truck Services of North America to do it for you.

Please note that if you obtain a new EIN it takes approximately 10 business days for the EIN to become active within the IRS' e-file system, so if you do not have an EIN and will need to file Form 2290, you will not want to wait until the last minute to get yours. If you do not have your EIN, give TSNA a call at 803.386.0320 and we’ll take care of it for you.

Read More »

Starting a New Trucking Company

Starting your own trucking company requires preparation and planning because the trucking business is one of the most regulated industries in the country. The process can be complicated and takes much time and patience due to the many requirements and regulations.

Once you have taken the initial steps, like deciding on your business name and the legal entity, obtaining your CDL license, truck and trailer; securing the funds to obtain the necessary registrations, licenses, permits, etc., then you will need to get your business registered in your state.  The process varies from state to state.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict regulations mandated for New Entrants in the trucking industry, and prospective company owners need to stay compliant with the rules governing the industry. Truck Services of North America will handle working with the state and federal agencies to ensure you submit the necessary information. As a premier full service provider, TSNA takes the paperwork out of your way so you can focus on the road.

You will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Federal ID Number. If you don't have one, you can apply for online at irs.gov or call TSNA and we’ll take care of it for you.

Step 1: Start process for FMCSA Authority

    1. Obtain USDOT Number

    2. Complete and submit application form(s) to FMCSA

·  Also referred to as Interstate Operating Authority, an "MC," "FF," or "MX" number

    3. Begin New Entrant Safety Assurance Program

    4. Obtain permanent USDOT registration

·  All first-time carrier applicants will be automatically enrolled in the FMCSA New Entrant Safety Assurance Program. New entrants are required to pass a safety audit and maintain acceptable roadside safety performance over an initial 18-month period before they are given permanent registration status.

    5. Maintain USDOT Number and Operating Authority information

Step 2:  Application for IFTA fuel permits

Step 3:  Complete State Notification/Registrations Applications.

Step 4:  Obtain Insurance and file with FMCSA (and any state that 

requires Insurance filed)

Step 5:  Apply for Process Agents

Step 6:  Verify insurance is on file and all permits are in place

Step 7:  Once FMCSA Authority is granted, apply for Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)

Generally, this process will take about 10 days to 2 weeks to complete, but it may vary depending how quickly the necessary information is provided and the response time from the federal/state agencies. We have New Entrant Packages or we can customize one to suit your specific needs.

For more information give us a call today at 803.386.0320 and let TSNAmerica.com take the paperwork out of your way.

Read More »

Casino Bus Driver arrested for displaying fraudulent IFTA stickers

On July 9th, Hellertown Police say Jun Ying Li, of the 600 block of 59th Street, Brooklyn, N.Y., was driving a casino bus for Global Bus Tours Inc. when it was stopped in the 1500 block of Main Street at 10:39am.  After it was discovered that the International Fuel Tax Agreement decals that were displayed were fraudulent, Li was arrested on charges of Altered, Forged or Counterfeit Documents and Plates; Tampering with Public Records or Information; and Identification Markers and License or Road Tax Registration Card Required.

Li’s bail was set at $2,500 unsecured.  Doesn’t seem worth it?  Filing for 2nd Quarter IFTA taxes deadline is July 31, 2012.  In order to renew at the end of the year to receive current decals, all taxes must be paid.  

Truck Services of North America can prepare and file your IFTA return quickly and accurately, ensuring that you stay compliant with the IFTA rules. So give us a call today at 803.386.0320 and let TSNA take the paperwork out of your way.

Read More »

What a New Entrant Needs to Start a Trucking Business

Feeling overwhelmed with trying to get what you need to start your trucking business? There are many requirements that factor into properly setting up your new business. What you need will depend on a number of things.  Once you have taken the initial steps, like deciding on your business name and the legal entity, obtaining your CDL license, truck and trailer and securing the funds to obtain the necessary registrations, licenses, permits, etc. then what?

Truck Services of North America (TSNA) can help, as a premier full service provider; we take the paperwork out of your way so you can focus on the road. The trucking business is one of the most regulated industries in the country.  For new entrants, getting started on the right foot is crucial to avoid missteps and non-compliance, which can cost new carrier thousands of dollars and possibly their operating authority.

As a one-stop service provider of authority, permitting and compliance services, we have the products, services and expertise to get you what you need to start your business.  Once you have established your business we can help you save time and money by handling your renewal and quarterly filings, quickly and accurately.

We prepare and file the necessary paperwork for to you obtain your DOT number and EIN. We provide assistance in obtaining Interstate and Intrastate Authorities, including BOC-3 and any other required permits depending on your specific needs.  We’ll take care of your HVUT, IRP, UCR and IFTA, along with any temporary fuel permits, if applicable.

Check out all our services at TSNAmerica.com. Don't see what you're looking for, give us a call at 803.386.0320 today and we'll do what it takes to get your business up and running!

Read More »

2012 IFTA 2nd Quarter Filing period is here!

IFTA is the International Fuel Tax Agreement between the 48 contiguous States and 10 Canadian Provinces, where the member jurisdictions act cooperatively to administer and collect motor fuel use taxes. 

The purpose of IFTA is to establish and maintain the concept of one fuel use license and one administering base jurisdiction for each license holder (licensee). Under IFTA, you only have to report to one state and the state allocate the fuel tax payments.  For more details see http://www.iftach.org.

The fuel taxes are due quarterly and July 31st is the deadline for the 2nd quarter. (April, May June).

What you need to file:

• Mileage log
• Fuel Receipts
• Any IFTA correspondences pertaining to your account (if applicable)

Late Filing or Not Filing could result in the following:

• IFTA filing (late fee) plus interest (if applicable)
• Possible suspension of IFTA license
• Possibility of having IRP/Apportioned Plate account affected
• Citation from DOT if caught operating on a delinquent and or suspending IFTA license
• Threat of having your entire transport operation shut down

The IFTA filing process may be vary slightly depending on your base jurisdiction state.

If you are new and not sure what to do or would rather not have to take the time to file your IFTA, contact Truck Services of North America at TSNAmerica.com today and ask about our first time filing special. TSNA takes the paperwork out of your way!

Read More »

IFTA deadline for 2nd Quarter Filing is July 31st

You qualify for an IFTA license if you operate your qualified motor vehicle in any U.S. state or Canadian province that is a member of the International Fuel Tax Agreement. To qualify, your vehicle must meet the following weight requirements:
A vehicle used or designed to transport people or property is a qualified motor vehicle if it: 

• Has three or more axles; or 
• Has two axles and a gross vehicle or registered gross vehicle weight of more than 26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms; or
•  Is used in a combination that has a combined or registered gross vehicle weight of more than 26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms.

A recreational vehicle such as a motor home or a pickup with a camper is not considered a qualified motor vehicle when an individual uses it exclusively for personal pleasure. Vehicles used in connection with a business operation are not considered recreational.

Let TSNA, take the paperwork out of your way so you can focus on the road.  TSNA offers full service IFTA filing services, as well as many others.  Check out our services at www.tsnamerica.com.

Read More »