The financial responsibility filing that activates authority.
The FMCSA requires for-hire carriers to keep proof of financial responsibility on file, commonly the BMC-91 or BMC-91X, tied to a minimum liability limit that varies by what you haul. This is general information, not legal advice.
Ready for terms? Get a quote. Want to find the gaps first? Compare your coverage.
What the filing does
The BMC-91 or 91X is filed by your insurer to tell the FMCSA you carry the required minimum liability. It is what ties your primary liability coverage to your operating authority, and the authority generally depends on it staying in force. A lapse can lead to revocation.
Minimum limits vary by commodity
Federal financial-responsibility minimums depend on what you haul, with general freight at one level and certain hazardous materials requiring substantially higher minimums. Many shippers and brokers also require more than the federal minimum by contract. We confirm your limit meets both. Verify current minimum figures with the FMCSA, since they are set by regulation.
Filing is not the whole picture
Meeting the filing minimum does not mean you are fully protected; the minimum may be far below your real exposure, and a serious accident can exceed it. The filing satisfies a federal requirement, not your risk. This is general information, not legal or FMCSA advice and not a compliance determination. Insurance filings are not the same as legal compliance, and requirements change. Verify current rules and your specific situation with the FMCSA and qualified advisors.
Common questions.
What is a BMC-91 filing?
What is the minimum liability for trucking?
Is the federal minimum enough coverage?
Make sure your coverage and filings line up
Filings, authority, and coverage are connected. We make sure your insurance supports the filings your operation requires.
Line your coverage up with your filings.
Tell us your authority and operation and we will make sure your insurance supports the filings you need.