MC Number Lookup
Enter any MC (Motor Carrier) number to verify a carrier's interstate operating authority, safety record, and insurance status. Truck Graph indexes 757,873 for-hire carriers with verified authority records.
Example: Enter MC138328 or 138328 for Werner Enterprises Inc
What is an MC number?
An MC (Motor Carrier) number is a unique identifier issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to carriers that transport regulated commodities or passengers for compensation in interstate commerce. The MC number is the carrier's for-hire operating authority — without it, a motor carrier cannot legally transport freight for hire across state lines.
The MC number system has been in use since the Motor Carrier Act of 1935. Today, obtaining an MC number requires filing Form OP-1 with the FMCSA, securing a $75,000 surety bond or trust fund agreement (BMC-84 or BMC-85), and maintaining minimum insurance coverage of $750,000 for general freight or $5,000,000 for household goods. The application process typically takes 4-6 weeks.
There are several types of MC authority: Common Carrier (for-hire to the general public), Contract Carrier (for-hire under specific contracts), and Broker authority (arranging transportation without operating equipment). Each type requires its own docket number. A single company may hold multiple MC numbers for different authority types.
For shippers and brokers, verifying an MC number is a critical step in carrier vetting. An inactive or revoked MC number means the carrier is not authorized to haul freight — tendering loads to such a carrier exposes the shipper to liability and insurance coverage gaps. See also: DOT Number Lookup.
MC number format and variations
MC numbers appear in several formats across industry documents:
- MC-123456 — standard format with hyphen
- MC123456 — no separator (common on rate confirmations)
- 123456 — numeric only (used in databases and API systems)
- FF-123456 — freight forwarder authority (different authority type)
Truck Graph accepts all these formats. Enter the numeric portion or include the MC prefix — both will work. Our database cross-references the MC number (stored as docket_number) with the carrier's USDOT number to display the full profile.
Frequently asked questions
What is an MC number?
An MC (Motor Carrier) number is a unique identifier issued by the FMCSA to for-hire carriers that transport regulated commodities in interstate commerce. It is part of the carrier's operating authority and indicates they are authorized to haul freight for compensation.
What is the difference between a DOT number and an MC number?
A DOT number is required for all commercial vehicles for safety monitoring. An MC number specifically grants for-hire operating authority — permission to transport freight for compensation in interstate commerce. Private carriers moving their own goods need a DOT number but not an MC number.
How do I verify if an MC number is active?
Enter the MC number above to check the carrier's current authority status. An active MC number means the carrier is authorized to operate. If the authority is revoked or inactive, the carrier cannot legally haul freight for compensation.
Can a carrier have an MC number without a DOT number?
No. Every carrier with an MC number also has a USDOT number. The DOT number is the primary federal identifier. The MC number is an additional authorization for for-hire interstate operations.
What does MC stand for in trucking?
MC stands for Motor Carrier. The full designation is 'MC number' or 'docket number' — it represents the carrier's for-hire operating authority issued by the FMCSA. It is sometimes written as MC-123456 or MC123456.
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