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Big changes are on the horizon for the trucking and logistics industry. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has announced it will officially retire Motor Carrier (MC) numbers by October 1, 2025, replacing them with a USDOT-only identification system.

Let’s break down what this means, why it’s happening, and how businesses can prepare.

Why the Switch from MC to USDOT Numbers?

For years, most carriers and brokers have been operating under two separate identifiers: a USDOT number (primarily for safety and compliance) and an MC number (for operating authority). This dual system setup has led to confusion, redundant records, and even fraud, especially when carriers “reset” their safety record by obtaining a new MC number.

The FMCSA’s solution? Consolidate everything under one roof.

By using just the USDOT number, the agency hopes to:

  • Simplify the carrier registration process.
  • Eliminate duplicate or fraudulent entries.
  • Improve enforcement through centralized tracking.
  • Make safety and compliance records easier to access and understand.

This is all part of a broader rollout of the Unified Registration System (URS), a centralized platform that will house all carrier, broker, and freight forwarder data under a single USDOT number.

Who Will Be Impacted?

 Motor Carriers

  • Carriers will no longer need an MC number for interstate authority.
  • All safety and authority records will be tied to their USDOT number.
  • Existing documents (permits, insurance, contracts) that reference MC numbers may need to be updated.

Brokers & Freight Forwarders

  • Instead of being issued an MC number when granted authority, brokers and forwarders will now receive a USDOT number.
  • The change could introduce new compliance requirements, especially as FMCSA cracks down on fraud like double brokering.

Shippers & Customers

  • Many shippers currently rely on MC numbers to verify carrier credentials.
  • Going forward, they’ll need to use the USDOT number to check carrier authority—likely through FMCSA’s SAFER database or the updated URS.

A New Tool Against Fraud?

One of FMCSA’s core motivations for this overhaul is fraud prevention.

The industry has seen a rise in:

  • Double brokering scams
  • Carrier identity fraud
  • Safety record manipulation (aka “churning”)

Under the current system, bad actors can shut down operations under one MC number and reappear with a clean slate under a new one. The new USDOT-only system will make that much harder to pull off.

By tracking all operating authority under a single, persistent USDOT number, FMCSA expects to close this loophole and improve accountability.

What Should You Do Before October 1, 2025?

With the clock ticking, it’s crucial for all stakeholders to prepare. Here’s how:

Review Your Documentation

Audit all contracts, licenses, permits, and insurance policies. Anywhere your MC number appears will need to be updated to reflect the USDOT number system.

Confirm Your USDOT Info is Correct

Make sure FMCSA has the right:

  • Business name and address
  • Contact details
  • Operating authority status
  • Compliance filings

Communicate with Your Network

Inform clients, partners, and vendors about the change. This can help avoid confusion or service interruptions once MC numbers are phased out.

Stay Informed

FMCSA will continue to release guidance as the deadline approaches. Subscribe to agency updates, attend webinars, or consult with compliance experts to ensure you’re on track.


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