How Brokers and Freight Forwarders Register for UCR

1. What Is the UCR Program?

The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) program is a federal registration system that requires companies involved in interstate transportation to register annually and pay a fee based on the size and type of their operation.

The funds collected through UCR fees help states enforce motor carrier safety programs and maintain compliance systems.

2. Does the UCR Apply to Brokers and Freight Forwarders?

Yes.
Even if you don’t own or operate commercial vehicles, if you have:

• An active USDOT number, or

• An MC (Motor Carrier) number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA),
  you must register and pay a UCR fee every year.

3. UCR Fees for Brokers and Freight Forwarders

Unlike motor carriers, brokers and freight forwarders pay the lowest UCR fee tier, since they don’t operate vehicles.

For the 2025 registration year, the Tier 1 fee applies:

• Fee: Approximately $129 per year

• Entities Covered: Brokers, freight forwarders, and leasing companies with no commercial motor vehicles.

The fee may vary slightly depending on the year, as UCR adjusts rates annually based on nationwide collections.

4. Information You’ll Need to Register

Before you begin the registration, make sure you have:

• Your USDOT or MC number

• Your business name (as it appears in FMCSA records)

• Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Tax ID

• Contact information (business address, phone, and email)

• Payment method (credit/debit card or eCheck)

5. Step-by-Step: How to Register for UCR as a Broker or Freight Forwarder

Step 1: Go to the UCR Portal

Visit the official website:

https://www.fmcsa.me/

Step 2: Select Your Registration Year

Choose the current registration year (e.g., 2025).

Step 3: Search Your USDOT or MC Number

Enter your USDOT or MC number to locate your company record.
The system will verify your entity type automatically.

Step 4: Confirm Entity Type

Confirm that your business is listed as a broker, freight forwarder, or leasing company (with no commercial vehicles).
You’ll automatically be placed in Fee Bracket 1.

Step 5: Complete the Registration and Payment

Follow the on-screen steps to finalize your information and submit payment.
You’ll receive a confirmation email and receipt after successful registration.

6. UCR Renewal and Recordkeeping

• UCR registration renews annually. The new registration period typically opens October 1 for the upcoming year.

• Keep a copy of your UCR receipt on file (digital or printed) in case of audits or inquiries.

• Always verify that your FMCSA registration status and USDOT number are active and up to date.

7. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to register for UCR can lead to:

• Fines ranging from $100 to $5,000 per violation, depending on the state

• Suspension of interstate operating privileges

• Roadside enforcement actions during audits or inspections

Even though brokers and freight forwarders don’t operate vehicles, non-compliance can still flag your company in FMCSA systems, causing administrative or legal issues.

8. How to Verify Your UCR Registration

You can confirm your UCR compliance status at:

https://www.fmcsa.me/

Simply enter your USDOT or MC number, and the system will show your registration year, payment status, and compliance record.

9. Tips for Staying Compliant

• Set a reminder to renew your UCR registration every year.

• Keep your FMCSA and UCR information consistent (same business name, address, and contact info).

• Review your FMCSA profile regularly for accuracy.

10. Summary

Conclusion

Even though brokers and freight forwarders don’t operate trucks, UCR registration is still required for maintaining active interstate authority and compliance with FMCSA regulations.
Completing your registration each year is quick, inexpensive, and helps you avoid unnecessary penalties or enforcement actions.

Take five minutes today to verify your status at https://www.fmcsa.me/— it’s the easiest way to stay compliant and protect your business.