Total Insight Professional Services

DOT Compliance & Motor Carrier Authority Services

TIPS is a DOT compliance company that helps owner-operators and small fleets form their companies, secure USDOT numbers and MC authority, stay compliant with FMCSA and state regulations, and pass their safety audits. One dedicated compliance agent handles it all, year after year.

★★★★★ 5.0 on Google Reviews
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Prefer to talk? (208) 278-6722
5.0★
Rated on Google Reviews
2,500+
Carriers assisted nationwide
20+
Years in transportation compliance
BOC-3
FMCSA-approved process agent
TIPS Services & Solutions

Everything your company needs to operate legally.

From your first filing to your safety audit and beyond, TIPS handles DOT compliance for trucking companies, construction fleets, and anyone operating commercial vehicles.

Free USDOT Number

We file your USDOT number directly with the FMCSA at no cost. Start your company the right way, without the guesswork.

Get my DOT# →

Motor Carrier Authority

Operate across state lines and get paid to haul freight. We handle your MC application and guide you to activation.

Get my MC# →

Start-Up Packages

Everything a new carrier needs in one package: DOT, MC, BOC-3, and every filing you need to pass your safety audit.

Start trucking →

DOT Compliance Management

We manage driver files, drug testing, biennial updates, IFTA and IRP, so you never miss a deadline or a renewal.

Get compliant →

Driver Screenings

MVRs, CDLIS and PSP reports, and criminal background checks. Hire with confidence and protect your safety rating.

Screen drivers →

Safety Audit Help

We prepare you to pass your New Entrant Safety Audit, or write your Corrective Action Plan if you already failed.

Get audit help →
What Our Clients Say

Rated 5.0 on Google by the carriers we serve.

★★★★★
Bailey and Samantha took care of our DOT interstate and motor carrier authority applications and saved us a lot of hassle. I attempted to do this myself and ended up applying for a second DOT number by accident. Thanks for your help!
SBSteve B.Google review, new authority setup
★★★★★
Total Insight Professional Services has been an excellent partner for our business, helping us stay on top of all our transportation compliance needs. Samantha is sharp, knowledgeable, and dedicated, always following up and following through.
STSyracuse Trailer DepotGoogle review, ongoing compliance
★★★★★
The best customer service ever. If you are new to the trucking world like me and need a company to help set up all the required items, they are the team. Call backs and follow up are no issue, and you get free lifetime questions.
RPRobert P.Facebook review, new box truck carrier
About TIPS

Compliance veterans who put carriers first.

Total Insight Professional Services (TIPS) is a DOT compliance company headquartered in Boise, Idaho, serving motor carriers nationwide.

Founded by compliance industry veterans Samantha Vickery and Bailey Hoak, TIPS has helped thousands of companies file their USDOT numbers and stay compliant with FMCSA and state regulations. With over 20 years of combined experience, we guide owner-operators and small fleets through every stage, from business formation to passing the New Entrant Safety Audit.

Whether you're starting a new trucking company or bringing private commercial vehicles into compliance, TIPS is there to help.

Read our story on CDLLife

Direct industry expertise

Seasoned professionals who know trucking and what auditors look for.

Proactive compliance

We track deadlines and reach out before problems become violations.

One-on-one support

No call centers or chat bots. You talk to the same expert every time.

Transparent pricing

Clear costs upfront, including any ongoing fees. No surprise invoices.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start a trucking company?+
First, form a business and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Then get your USDOT number, apply for MC authority, buy insurance, file your BOC-3, register for UCR, and identify what compliance requirements apply to your type of operation. Compliance requirements often include things like Driver Qualification Files, Drug & Alcohol Testing, registering with the FMCSA Clearinghouse, IFTA & IRP, and others.
What is DOT compliance?+
DOT compliance means following all the rules from the Department of Transportation, FMCSA and the States you operate in. This includes having the right authority, valid insurance, driver files, drug testing, hours of service logs, state permits, and maintenance records. Breaking these rules can lead to fines, failed audits, and losing your authority. Compliance is ongoing work. Rules change, documents expire, and new requirements appear. Staying compliant takes consistent attention.
What is the New Entrant Safety Audit?+
The New Entrant Safety Audit is a required FMCSA review of your safety systems. It happens within your first 12 months of operation. Auditors check your driver files, drug testing, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and insurance. If you fail, you can lose your authority. The audit looks at whether you have real safety systems in place. Auditors want to see that you are actively managing safety, not just keeping paperwork.
How do I choose a DOT compliance company?+
Look at their experience, services, pricing, reviews, and support. Find a company that works with carriers your size. Make sure they offer everything from authority setup to audit prep. You don't want to use multiple companies to manage your compliance. Check for clear pricing with no hidden fees. A good compliance partner understands your challenges and can grow with you.
What makes TIPS different?+
What makes TIPS different is the simple fact that we put our clients first, every time. When you work with us, you work with people who understand your company, your goals, and what it will take to make them a reality. If you've worked with a compliance company before, working with TIPS will feel like a breath of fresh air. No hidden fees, no lack of support. You work directly with an expert to keep you informed and compliant, year after year.

Still have questions? Read the full compliance FAQ or give us a call.

Ready When You Are

Get your free TIPS consultation.

Tell us about your operation and we'll map out exactly what you need to run legal. No pressure, just straight answers from a real person.

Get my free consultation View start-up packages
(208) 278-6722
Talk to Samantha or Bailey directly