Trucking Industry News - Page 3
Requirements for New Trucking Authority: The 2026 Checklist
Most guides to getting trucking authority are written as a list of forms. That is not where new carriers actually get stuck. They get stuck because a requirement they had never heard of turns out to gate everything downstream, or because they satisfied a requirement in the wrong order and paid for the same thing […]
DOT D&A consortium vs FMCSA Clearinghouse: what each one does
Consortium administers the testing program. Clearinghouse is the federal database of violations and queries. Both are required, separately. Here is how they work together.
How to enroll in a DOT D&A consortium (step-by-step)
Step-by-step DOT drug and alcohol consortium enrollment for new owner-operators. Pre-employment test, Clearinghouse registration, supervisor training, and what to keep on file.
Do I need to join a D&A consortium as a new owner-operator?
Every CDL-holding owner-operator under their own MC authority must be enrolled in a DOT drug and alcohol testing program. Here is exactly when consortium membership is required.
EIN vs SSN for owner-operators: which one applies?
Sole prop with no employees can technically use an SSN. LLC, employees, 2290, factoring, and most banks require an EIN. Here is the exact decision tree.
How to get an EIN for trucking (step-by-step)
Free 10-minute EIN application directly on IRS.gov. Here is the exact sequence: entity setup, responsible party, online form, confirmation letter, and what to keep on file.
Do I need an EIN as an owner-operator?
Sole proprietors with no employees can legally use an SSN, but most banks, factoring companies, and insurers refuse to onboard a trucking business without an EIN. Here is the exact decision.
What happens if you miss the August 31 2290 deadline
Missed Form 2290 by August 31? Here is the exact penalty cascade, when DMV blocks plate renewal, and how to file late before it parks your truck.
How to file Form 2290 as a new owner-operator
Step-by-step Form 2290 (HVUT) filing walkthrough for new owner-operators: EIN, taxable gross weight, IRS e-file, payment, stamped Schedule 1, and what to keep for plate renewal.
Do I need to file Form 2290?
Form 2290 (HVUT) applies to most trucks at 55,000 lb GVW or more. Here is exactly when it is required, when it is not, and what triggers the filing.