New carrier startup packages

Start your trucking company the easy way.

Pick the package that fits the truck you're starting with, and TIPS handles the rest. DOT, MC, BOC-3, and everything else you need to get on the road.

Rated 5.0 on GoogleBy the carriers we've helped
BBB Spark Award2026 winner - Idaho
FMCSA-ApprovedBOC-3 Process Agent
Serving All 50 StatesBased in Boise, ID
Why new carriers pick TIPS

The entire process, handled by experts

You didn't get into trucking to deal with paperwork and filings all day. Let the people who have done it every day for a decade take care of it.

Doing it yourself
  • Complicated forms & processesDozens of different government portals, guessing answers on important documents.
  • Setbacks, delays, and feesApplications get denied, precious time is wasted, and filing fees paid multiple times.
  • No support when you need itYou can spend hours on hold just to ask a simple question and still get the wrong answer.
  • Constant upkeepTracking dozens of deadlines & requirements constantly eating into your limited time.
With TIPS
  • Minimum input requiredWe just need to know a little about your business, then we do the hard part.
  • Filed right the first timeWe make sure it's done right and monitor any applications to make sure they're approved.
  • Dedicated compliance agentYou work with a DOT compliance expert at TIPS from day one, who's there to help when you need it.
  • Free Lifetime Compliance SupportWe're there to help and answer questions when you want to add other vehicle types, bring on your first driver, or expand into other states.
Choose your package

Choose your vehicle type and let TIPS handle the rest.

Every package comes with your own personal compliance agent who helps you every step of the way with free lifetime support.

Sprinter Van

Cargo vans and sprinters, under 10,001 lbs

Base package$579
Choose Sprinter Van

What's included

  • USDOT Number
  • MC Operating Authority
  • BOC-3 Process Agent
  • UCR Registration
  • Trucker's Toolbox

Included for free

  • Lifetime compliance support

Box Truck

Box trucks, or any other vehicle up to 26,000 lbs

Base package$759
Choose Box Truck

What's included

  • USDOT Number
  • MC Operating Authority
  • BOC-3 Process Agent
  • UCR Registration
  • Driver Qualification File
  • Trucker's Toolbox

Included for free

  • Lifetime compliance support

CDL Hot Shot

CDL truck & trailer setups

Base package$1,579
Choose CDL Hot Shot

What's included

  • USDOT Number
  • MC Operating Authority
  • BOC-3 Process Agent
  • UCR Registration
  • Driver Qualification File
  • Drug & Alcohol Consortium
  • Clearinghouse Account & Queries
  • IFTA Account
  • IRP Account
  • Trucker's Toolbox

Included for free

  • Lifetime compliance support

Semi-Truck

Class 8 tractor-trailers

Base package$1,659
Choose Semi-Truck

What's included

  • USDOT Number
  • MC Operating Authority
  • BOC-3 Process Agent
  • UCR Registration
  • Driver Qualification File
  • Drug & Alcohol Consortium
  • Clearinghouse Account & Queries
  • IFTA Account
  • IRP Account
  • 2290 HVUT Filing
  • Trucker's Toolbox

Included for free

  • Lifetime compliance support

Just need a DOT & MC number?

Get your DOT, MC & BOC-3 filing completed, without the other filings you need to actually start operating.

USDOT NumberMC Operating AuthorityBOC-3 Process Agent

Not sure which package fits? Call (208) 278-6722 and we'll tell you which one you need.

How it works

What happens after you pick a package.

Five steps. You pick the package and buy insurance. We do the rest.

  1. Step 1

    Pick a package or call

    Pick the package that fits the vehicle type you're starting out with. Not sure which one you need? Call us and we'll walk you through it.

  2. Step 2

    Meet with your TIPS agent

    Your compliance agent will contact you via phone to confirm your order, review company details, and get to work on the next steps.

  3. Step 3

    DOT & MC application

    We'll file your DOT & MC number and notify you when they're approved.

  4. Step 4

    Remaining requirements handled

    We'll file the BOC-3 and current year's UCR, and get started on any other filings included in your package.

  5. Step 5

    You haul. We stay on call.

    Contact us anytime you have questions or concerns, and we'll contact you anytime a deadline is approaching or there's a rule change you should know about.

Reviews from new carriers

We've helped thousands of new carriers get on the road.

★★★★★

Samantha and her team made it so easy for me to get my MC and DOT number. They do everything for me from start to finish. It was a pleasure to work with them. Highly recommend, you won't be disappointed.

Roadkill CabinsVerified customer
★★★★★

I started this journey about 6 weeks ago and honestly was about to quit because of the amount of paperwork. Then I came across an ad for TIPS. I was extremely cautious, but Bailey assured me they would take care of everything. I went for it and I'm so happy I did. If you're on the fence about starting a transportation business, call them, these guys and gals know their stuff.

Hector WilliamsNew carrier
★★★★★

Being new to the industry, I was scouring the internet for help with compliance and stumbled upon TIPS. Bailey was able to immediately accommodate me, offering advice and prompt access. From compliance guidance to setting up accounts, they handled everything with clarity and professionalism. I truly felt like they were part of the team.

Mariah PatelNew to the industry
FAQ

Questions new carriers ask us most

Straightforward answers to your questions about starting your trucking company.

How much does it cost to start a trucking company?+
Your filings are the small part. Our packages run $579 to $1,659, depending on the truck. Insurance is the big one: a new semi authority usually pays $15,000 to $25,000 a year, with 15% to 25% down. Our cost guide breaks it all down by truck type.
How long does it take to get MC authority?+
Once the FMCSA posts your MC number, there is a 21-day wait before it goes from pending to authorized. Many new applications also get a manual review first, so plan on more than three weeks. We submit your applications quickly and watch them until they're approved.
Do I need an MC number if I already have a DOT number?+
It depends on what you haul. Haul only your own goods and the USDOT number is enough. Haul freight for other companies across state lines and you need both a USDOT number and MC authority.
What is a BOC-3?+
A BOC-3 names a process agent in every state who can accept legal papers for your company. The FMCSA requires it before your authority goes active, and only registered process-agent companies can file it. We're one of them, and ours covers every state for life.
How much insurance do I need to get my authority?+
The FMCSA minimum for general freight is $750,000 in liability. Most brokers and shippers want $1 million plus $100,000 in cargo, so get your quotes at that level. Start the policy near the end of your 21-day wait, so you aren't paying premiums before you can haul.
Do I need IFTA and IRP?+
Only if you cross state lines in a truck over 26,000 lbs or with three or more axles. Stay in one state, or run a lighter truck, and you need neither. Our CDL Hot Shot and Semi-Truck packages include both accounts.
Which package do I need?+
Pick the one that matches your truck: Sprinter Van for under 10,001 lbs, Box Truck for up to 26,000 lbs, CDL Hot Shot for CDL truck and trailer setups, and Semi-Truck for Class 8. Not sure? Call (208) 278-6722 and we'll tell you, free. You can add filings later.
Start your company today

Pick your package and get your truck on the road.

Getting started is easier than you think when you've got 20+ years of experience at your side. If you still have questions, call us and talk to an expert at TIPS before you buy.