How to Start a Trucking Company: What It Costs & How BulkLoads can Help
I talk to a lot of drivers ready to take the leap into running under their own authority. It’s a big move, and it can feel overwhelming at first — especially when you start adding up all the permits, registrations, and costs. That’s exactly where we come in.
Here’s a step-by-step look at the full setup process — and how BulkLoads Permitting can help every step of the way:
- Set up Sole Proprietorship, LLC, or corporation and applies for EIN
- File for DOT and MC Number with FMCSA — DOT can go active in 24 hours
- Once DOT number appears on Safer (usually within 24 hours), File BOC-3
- File for UCR
- Registration for drug testing
- Mark calendar for when MC will go active (expect 3 weeks minimum waiting period)
- Set up IRP account for apportioned plates
- Set up IFTA account
- Insurance quoting (Insurance needs to be on file before MC becomes active)
- Ongoing Filings: UCR annual renewal, MCS-150 biennial updates, quarterly IFTA filings, plate renewals
Side note: Overall, it can take about a month to get everything fully set up and operational.
💰 Startup Costs to Expect:
- Permitting & Filing Fees – Everything listed above is what we can help with when setting up your full authority, with costs varying based on your specific needs. Click here to get a quote on your authority.
- Insurance – New ventures usually see annual premiums between $15,000–$30,000, with a 20% down payment ($3,000–$6,000) needed up front. You’ll need to have your DOT number issued before you can get a quote. Click here to get a quote.
- Plates (IRP) – Budget $1,500–$2,500 depending on your state and planned routes.
- Working Capital – Most startups need cash on hand for 60–90 days of fuel and operating expenses. But we can help ease that burden — we work with Smart Freight Funding, a factoring company that gets you paid in as fast as 24 hours. Click here to get set up with factoring.
If you're thinking about making the jump, reach out — I’d love to help walk you through it and get you set up for success.To book an appointment regarding permitting, you can click here or call me directly at (417)-208-9970.