Motor carriers operating under a USDOT number are required to stay compliant with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations by regularly updating their information through the MCS-150 form. A key part of this process is understanding the MCS-150 biennial filing schedule. This filing schedule mandates that motor carriers update their information every two years to ensure FMCSA has accurate and current records on file.
What is the MCS-150 Biennial Filing Schedule?
The biennial filing schedule refers to the requirement that motor carriers must update their MCS-150 form with the FMCSA every two years. This is a mandatory update, even if your business details haven’t changed since the last submission.
The biennial update serves several purposes, including:
⦁ Confirming that your USDOT number is still active.
⦁ Providing the FMCSA with accurate information about your fleet and operations.
⦁ Ensuring compliance with safety regulations and avoiding penalties.
How to Determine Your Biennial Filing Deadline
Your biennial filing deadline is based on the last digit of your USDOT number. The final digit determines the month when your update is due, and the second-to-last digit determines whether you need to file in an odd or even year. Here’s how it breaks down:
⦁ January: USDOT numbers ending in 1.
⦁ February: USDOT numbers ending in 2.
⦁ March: USDOT numbers ending in 3.
⦁ April: USDOT numbers ending in 4.
⦁ May: USDOT numbers ending in 5.
⦁ June: USDOT numbers ending in 6.
⦁ July: USDOT numbers ending in 7.
⦁ August: USDOT numbers ending in 8.
⦁ September: USDOT numbers ending in 9.
⦁ October: USDOT numbers ending in 0.
For example, if your USDOT number ends in 5 and the second-to-last digit is odd (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), your filing is due in May of every odd-numbered year (e.g., 2023, 2025). If the second-to-last digit is even (0, 2, 4, 6, 8), your filing would be due in May of even-numbered years (e.g., 2024, 2026).
At U.S Carrier Registration, we make the MCS-150 filing process simple and efficient. Here’s how you can complete your update through our service:
Step 1: Complete Your Information
Head to our MCS-150 filing page, and fill out the required information:
⦁ Owner’s First and Last Name: Enter your name as listed on your USDOT registration.
⦁ Email: Provide your current email address for communications and updates.
⦁ Physical/Billing Address: This should be the official address linked to your business.
⦁ USDOT Number: Enter your USDOT number (required for filing).
⦁ Tax ID or SSN: Provide your company’s Tax ID or Social Security Number.
⦁ Company Name: List your company’s official name.
⦁ Number of Drivers and Vehicles: Indicate the number of drivers and vehicles in your fleet, including those requiring a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
⦁ Yearly Mileage: Provide an estimate of your company’s yearly mileage.
Step 2: Choose Your Filing Option
We offer two filing options based on your needs:
⦁ One-time Update: $287, valid for 2 years.
⦁ Extended Update Program: $489, covering 6 years and 3 filings (ideal for those who want hassle-free future updates).
Step 3: Submit Your Filing
Once you’ve filled out all the required fields and selected your filing option, review your information carefully. Then, provide your e-Signature to confirm the accuracy of your filing and agree to the Terms & Conditions.
If you’re unable to submit or have any questions, our Help Line is available at 877-544-4387 for immediate assistance.
Step 4: Payment and Confirmation
You’ll be able to review the total cost before completing the payment. After successful submission, you will receive a confirmation via email, which serves as proof of filing.
Step 5: Keep Records
Make sure to save your confirmation and any related documentation. It’s important to keep these records in case of any future compliance audits or inspections.
MCS-150 Biennial Update Deadlines
According to FMCSA regulations, entities must update their information every two years, even if there have been no changes in their business operations or the company has ceased interstate activities. If you fail to complete your MCS-150 Biennial Update, your USDOT number could be deactivated, and you may face civil penalties of up to $1,000 per day, not to exceed $10,000.
Stay compliant with our MCS-150 Update Service to avoid disruptions and ensure your business continues running smoothly.
Consequences of Missing the Biennial Filing Deadline
Failing to file your MCS-150 biennial update can result in penalties and fines. More critically, your USDOT number may be deactivated, which would prevent you from legally operating your motor carrier business. If your USDOT number is deactivated, you will need to reapply and complete the registration process from scratch, which can cause delays and financial losses.
How to Stay on Top of Your Filing Deadlines
To avoid missing your filing deadlines, it’s essential to stay organized and proactive. Here are a few tips:
⦁ Set reminders: Mark your biennial filing deadlines on a calendar or use digital reminders to notify you at least a month before the due date.
⦁ Review your information regularly: Even if it’s not yet time to file, regularly review your business information to ensure accuracy, making the update process easier.
⦁ Stay informed: Check FMCSA announcements for any changes to filing requirements or deadlines.
Need Help? Contact us at 877-544-4387, and we’ll assist you with the process.
The MCS-150 biennial filing schedule is an important aspect of compliance for motor carriers. By adhering to the filing schedule based on your USDOT number, you can avoid penalties, maintain active status, and ensure that your business operates smoothly. Keep track of your deadlines, make necessary updates, and file on time to remain in good standing with FMCSA regulations.