Carriers and freight brokers transporting regulated commodities in interstate commerce typically require operating authority from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This authority is often associated with a unique identifier, crucial for tracking safety and compliance. For example, businesses transporting goods across state lines for a fee generally fall under this category.
Maintaining proper operating authority allows for legal operation within the transportation industry, contributing to a safer and more reliable freight network. This system enables effective monitoring and enforcement of safety regulations, benefiting both the industry and the public. Historically, the establishment of such regulatory frameworks aimed to standardize operations and ensure fair competition within the trucking sector.