Transportation and Vehicle Safety: DOT & MC# and insurance requirements

Question
I'm looking into using my pickup to make deliveries (interstate and intrastate) for hire. It will be under 10,000 lbs and my primary deliveries will be packages and furniture (dressers, tables, etc.) from individuals. No trailer is involved.

If I'm understanding correctly I will need a DOT# number as well as an MC# but I'm not completely sure. Is this true?

Also, what are the insurance requirements in order to get those items for my operation? Is cargo insurance required

Thank you for considering my question.

Answer
Hi Lee,

As a motorcarrier of household goods involved in interstate shipping, your operation would fall under the jurisdiction of the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).  Regulation Part 375 seems to cover the business venture you're contemplating - you can read the rules set here:

http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/title49/part/375

To be certain that your new venture is in complete compliance with federal law, you should contact your FMCSA representative below:

Steven J. LaFreniere
Regulatory Ombudsman
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE.
Washington, DC  20590
202-366-0596

FMCSA is involved because you indicated a desire to enter into interstate shipping.  You will also need to follow all rules and regulations for the state in which you reside.  You did not specify which state your business will be based in.  I reside in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania - the link below will take you to their regulations page for in-state motor carriers, as an example (regulations differ from state to state, so be sure to search out those in your own state).

http://www.puc.state.pa.us/consumer_info/transportation/motor_carrier.aspx

Good luck with your venture!

Best,

Mike