Who Gets the Load? New Guidance Clarifies Motor Carrier Verification

New motor carrier selection guidance is urging brokers and shippers to apply consistent verification procedures when evaluating carriers, particularly as fraud and cargo theft attempts become more sophisticated. The guidance identifies carriers that should not be offered freight while emphasizing additional review for those that do not meet an automatic disqualifier.

Guidance Focuses on Carrier Vetting

Under the motor carrier selection guidance, carriers that meet specified disqualifying criteria should not be offered freight. However, evaluating carriers that fall outside those criteria can involve more detailed review and informed judgment.

Brokers and carriers are encouraged to maintain disciplined verification procedures even during periods of high demand or when there is pressure to quickly book a load. Consistent checks can help confirm a carrier’s identity, operating status and qualifications before freight is assigned.

FMCSA Rules Establish Qualification Standards

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, an agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation, regulates the trucking industry with a mission to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities involving large trucks and buses.

Federal regulations also establish standards for driver qualification. Under 49 CFR 391.11(b)(2), a motor carrier may not require or permit a person to drive unless that person is qualified under the applicable requirements. Carriers are responsible for maintaining the reports and records needed to document compliance.

Drivers Remain Responsible for Load Securement

Although carrier selection and compliance reviews occur before a load moves, the driver remains directly responsible for verifying that cargo is properly secured. The driver is the person who must present the vehicle for inspection at roadside scales and ensure that tiedowns and other securement equipment meet requirements before departure.

Drivers also must re-inspect the load during the trip as required. These inspections are intended to identify shifting or loosened cargo and help prevent damage or roadway hazards.

Verification Requires Consistency

The guidance underscores that safe and reliable freight transportation depends on accountability throughout the transaction. Brokers, shippers and carriers should apply their verification procedures consistently rather than relaxing them because operations are busy or a load needs to be covered quickly.