Interstate vs Intrastate Operating Authority: What's the Difference?

It never fails; every year around this time (and all the time, really) we get question after question asking, "What's the difference between intrastate and interstate authority?" Well friend, that’s a great question, and also probably the reason you’re reading this. So what exactly is the difference between the two?

Well, interstate, just like the term used to describe our cross-country roadways, means “existing or carried on between state lines.” So as you can piece together based on the definition, it means being able to drive your truck and haul loads across state lines. While intrastate, with the root word “intra,” means within; so it refers only to mileage driven within a particular state. Simple enough, right?

But if you are going to be driving across the country, or at least in multiple states (as most truckers do) then you’ll need to make sure the following items are taken care of prior to crossing state lines in your rig.

Apply for a USDOT#

Your USDOT# is issued by the FMCSA, and is used for vehicles that travel interstate, either to haul cargo or to transport passengers. You must have one if:

• Your commercial vehicle weighs 10,001 pounds or more,
• Transports 8 passengers or more for compensation, or 15 or more without comp.,
• Transports Hazardous Materials, or 
• If you travel in a state that requires a DOT#. 

Please note: This process will be done using the URS system for new applicants, and previous applicants will register using the new system as well starting on September 30, 2016. If you have any questions about the new URS system, take a look at our blog covering the most common questions about URS registration.

Apply for an MC#

Your MC# is what actually serves as your interstate authority, which gives you the ability to legally travel and haul loads between states. So yeah, it’s pretty important. But not so fast—don’t think that once you’ve got this you’re in the clear! You’ll still need to obtain another type of authority from the FMCSA depending on what type of business you have. If you’re unsure what type is right for you, just give us a call!

Register for UCR

UCR is another necessity for truckers traveling interstate, as the agreement requires all commercial vehicles travelling interstate and weighing at least 10,001 pounds to register for UCR annually. You’ll also have to pay the required fees based on the total number of vehicles you need to register.

Register for IRP

This is for vehicles that travel across multiple jurisdictions in the United States or in Canada and that weigh at least 26,000 pounds and/or have three or more axles. The fees for this particular registration depend on the mileage driven in each jurisdiction, and those fees are paid to the base jurisdiction where you are registered. It is then your base jurisdiction’s responsibility to apportion the funds to the correct jurisdictions based on your mileage.

Apply for an IFTA License and Decals

If you operate in multiple jurisdictions, you will have to apply for your IFTA license and decals with your base jurisdiction. Your fuel use and mileage traveled in each participating jurisdiction must be recorded, and then that information must be filed with your base jurisdiction.

Sound a little confusing? Well, we’re not going to lie, it most certainly is. But luckily for you, we can help you take care of every item on this list, and IFTA services are our specialty! So if you need someone to take the IFTA-filing burden off your plate this quarter, just give us a call and we’ll show you just how easy it really is!

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What You Need to Know About the URS: URS FAQs

Hello there, Trucking Nation! At TSNAmerica we pride ourselves on covering the hottest topics in trucking, and boy do we have a hot one for you today—URS! That’s right, we’re going to go through and answer some of the most commonly asked questions truckers have been asking us about the new system.

What is the URS?

URS stands for Unified Registration System and is a new electronic registration system put in place to streamline the FMCSA’s current process for registration. The system will also conveniently provide a database of information on all companies regulated by the FMCSA.

Does the URS apply to me?

Well, if you’re an interstate motor carrier, then yes, it absolutely does. All motor carriers that travel interstate, including freight forwarders, brokers, etc. must comply with the new guidelines set by the URS.

When do I have to comply with this new system?

There are several different implementation dates and rules for the new system:

• As of December 12, 2015, all new applicants applying for a USDOT number must use the new online application system.
• Starting September 30, 2016, both new and existing applicants must use the new online system to process new applications. The FMCSA has already stated that they will not be accepting paper forms or faxes! 
• Starting December 2016, all private and exempt carriers will officially be required to have BOC-3 filings and insurance in place. All new applicants applying for a USDOT number will have to begin providing that information on Sept. 30, 2016. 

What is the benefit of URS?

The ideal benefit of the new system will be the streamlined manual processes, as the system combines several forms that companies are required to submit into the same registration process. The FMCSA has even estimated that the trucking industry as a whole could see up to $9 million over a ten year period just from time and fees saved alone.

The FMCSA also stated that 16 percent of new registrations are currently submitted by paper. So please note that for those without internet access or that aren’t fans of using computers, the FMCSA recommends that you use a processing agency. And how convenient for you, because that’s exactly what we do!

Now we know it’s an entirely new system and it’s going to require some getting used to, but if you have any questions about it you know who to call! Just give us a ring at 803.386.0320 or email us at support@tsnamerica.com and we’ll be happy to answer any URS-related questions you can throw our way!

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