A Freight Broker Bond (BMC-84) is a surety bond required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for those operating as
transportation brokers in the United States. Freight brokers must have this bond filed before they can receive a license. The bond is also known by other names such as Property Broker Bonds, Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) Bonds, or Transportation Broker Bonds.

If you're seeking a bond for ocean freight transportation, you may need to explore Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Bonds or Non-Vessel
Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) Bonds.

How to Register as a Freight Broker with the FMCSA

The FMCSA is a federal regulatory agency responsible for ensuring compliance with motor carrier safety and commercial regulations within the U.S. Some applicants may be required to register for both safety and commercial authority. Those needing to meet safety requirements must also
obtain a USDOT Number.

Registration involves defining your business type—whether as a Motor Carrier, Broker, Shipper, or other entities. The FMCSA oversees the regulations that govern interstate trucking and bus industries. Below is an overview of the general registration steps:

1. Determine your DOT registration needs: Operating
Authority (MC Number), USDOT number, or Hazardous Materials Safety Permit Registration.

2. Complete the online FMCSA application through the Unified Registration System.

3. Meet the surety bond requirement.

4. Fulfill insurance requirements.

5. Review state notification and registration requirements.

6. Begin the New Entrant Safety Assurance Program.

7. Obtain permanent USDOT registration.

8. Maintain and update your USDOT number and operating authority information.

What Are the FMCSA's Surety Bond Requirements?

To operate as a motor carrier, freight forwarder, or broker, the FMCSA requires specific surety bond documentation before issuing a license. A BMC-84 bond or BMC-85 Trust Fund Agreement is required in the amount of $75,000 for freight forwarders and freight brokers. This bond guarantees compliance with FMCSA regulations and helps ensure that brokers pay motor carriers or shippers in a timely manner.

What Does the BMC-84 Freight Broker Bond Protect?

The BMC-84 bond is mandated under 49 U.S.C. 13906 by the FMCSA to ensure that freight brokers comply with regulations. The bond guarantees that brokers will fulfill their contracts, agreements, and credit obligations. If a broker fails to meet these commitments, the bond ensures that motor carriers or shippers can recover any unpaid amounts. It protects against non-payment for services rendered and ensures financial responsibility.

FMCSA Insurance Requirements for Freight Brokers

In addition to the bond, freight brokers, motor carriers, and freight forwarders must have specific insurance filings submitted to the FMCSA. These include liability and cargo insurance. Insurance filings like BMC-91 or BMC-91X cover public liability, property damage, and environmental
restoration. The FMCSA requires these forms to be submitted by the insurance company's home office.

What is an MC Number and Who Needs It?

Brokers involved in for-hire transportation, arranging the transport of passengers, or federally regulated commodities in interstate commerce are required to obtain an MC Number. This is also known as Operating Authority and dictates the type of operation the company may run, as well as
the cargo they can transport.

To apply for Operating Authority, brokers must register online via the Unified Registration System to receive a USDOT number and an MC/MX/FF
number. Exemptions exist for private carriers and those operating within specific federally designated "commercial zones."

How to Get a USDOT Number

New applicants can apply for a USDOT number online via the Unified Registration System.

Updating Your Broker Registration or Authority

Anytime a company changes its name, address, or other details, it must update its FMCSA record. Even if no changes have occurred, companies are required to update their information every two years. Updates can be made online using the FMCSA update system.

Contacting the FMCSA

For questions or further information, you can contact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA):

Address:

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

1200 NEW JERSEY AVENUE, SE

WASHINGTON, DC 20590

Phone: 855-368-4200

Website: FMCSA.gov