The Importance of Updating Your MCS-150 Form

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (“FMCSA”) requires motor carriers to update their company information with the FMCSA by filing the MCS-150 form. This form is due either every two years (known as a biennial update), or when there are changes to the company or if it is no longer operating as an interstate carrier. The deadline to file a biennial update is based on the last two digits of a motor carrier’s USDOT Number and the date it first registered with the FMCSA.

If the motor carrier makes changes to its business, such as moving to a new address or changing its business name, it must file a MCS-150 to update its registration information. It is also important to file an updated MCS-150 if the carrier has purchased or sold vehicles or had a significant change to its annual mileage because its Safety Measurement System (“SMS”) scores are based on fleet size and miles traveled each year.  

If a motor carrier does not update its MCS-150 when required, the FMCSA can deactivate its authority or issue fines up to $10,000. Loss of operating authority can cause a major distribution to any trucking business.

Should you have any questions regarding MCS-150 filing or about transportation law, please do not hesitate to our transportation law experts at [email protected]

This material in this article, provided by NorthAmerican Transportation Association, is designed to provide our readers with informative and current information as of the date of the post. It should not be considered, nor is it intended to constitute legal advice.