Why Carrier Compliance Matters
Using non-compliant carriers exposes your business to liability, cargo loss, and regulatory penalties. Every carrier in your network should meet these 15 criteria.
The 15-Point Checklist
Authority & Licensing
- ✅ Active MC Authority — Verify at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
- ✅ Active DOT Number — Registered and in good standing
- ✅ Operating Authority Type — Authorized for your freight type
- ✅ No FMCSA Out-of-Service Orders — Check for active sanctions
Insurance
- ✅ Auto Liability — Minimum $750,000 (most shippers require $1M)
- ✅ Cargo Insurance — Minimum $100,000 (verify commodity coverage)
- ✅ Workers' Compensation — Required in most states
- ✅ Insurance Certificate on File — Current, naming your company as certificate holder
Safety
- ✅ FMCSA Safety Rating — Satisfactory or better
- ✅ CSA BASIC Scores — Review all categories (Unsafe Driving, HOS, Vehicle Maintenance, etc.)
- ✅ Crash History — Review reportable crashes in the last 24 months
- ✅ Out-of-Service Rate — Below national average
Operations
- ✅ Equipment Condition — Age and maintenance records
- ✅ Driver Qualifications — CDL, drug testing program, hours of service compliance
- ✅ Broker-Carrier Agreement — Signed contract with rate confirmation process
Red Flags
- Authority less than 6 months old
- No cargo insurance
- CSA scores in the "Alert" category
- Multiple recent crashes
- Carrier won't sign a broker-carrier agreement
- Rates significantly below market (possible double-brokering)
Indray's Vetting Process
Every carrier in Indray's network passes our rigorous compliance screening, including:
- Real-time insurance monitoring
- Daily CSA score checks
- Annual safety reviews
- Background verification
