BOC-3 | Processing Agent
BOC-3 | Processing Agent
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What is BOC-3 Filing ?
A BOC-3 aka Blanket of Coverage filing, also known as the “Designation of Agents for Service of Process,” is a federal requirement in the United States. This filing assigns a designated process agent responsible for accepting legal documents on behalf of a transportation or logistics company in each state where the company is authorized to conduct business. Prior to obtaining operational authority, a transportation or logistics company often needs to complete the BOC-3 filing.
For motor carriers, it’s important to note that only the designated process agent is eligible to submit the BOC-3 filing, and the process must be completed online. In the case of brokers or freight forwarders without commercial vehicles, they have the option to file Form BOC-3 on their own behalf.
What are the consequences of not doing a BOC-3 Filling?
You must send in the BOC-3 form within 90 days from when the Operating Authority application is published in the FMCSA Register. If you miss this deadline, your Operating Authority application will be dismissed, and you’ll lose the application fee. It’s important to meet this deadline to make sure your application is processed correctly and to avoid any problems.
Does BOC-3 Apply To Your Business?
Every motor carrier, broker, and freight forwarder under the FMCSA is obligated to possess a BOC-3 on record with the FMCSA as a prerequisite for obtaining authority. Additionally, if an MC or FF number has been revoked and needs reinstatement, a BOC-3 is also necessary to fulfill this requirement.
When submitting your BOC-3 form, be prepared to provide the following details:
What is a BOC-3 process agent (or FMCSA agent)?
Before initiating the BOC-3 filing, it is imperative to appoint a service of process agent, often referred to as an “FMCSA agent,” who is situated in all the states where your business operates.
An SOP agent, or process agent, is an individual or business entity chosen by your company to accept legal documents on your behalf. This appointed agent must have a physical presence in each state where your business is authorized to operate and be available at that location during regular business hours.
Once designated, the process agent is granted the authority to receive and forward service of process as well as other legal documents on behalf of your company within the specified state(s). Service of process entails delivering documents, typically a summons or complaint, to notify the defendant that legal action has been initiated and outlines the subsequent steps to be taken.
What is a blanket process agent?
Companies have the option to appoint a process agent for individual states or opt for a blanket process company. A blanket process company operates with a designated process agent in each state.
Choosing a blanket agent can streamline your company’s FMCSA responsibilities. The agent serves as your BOC-3 blanket process agent in every jurisdiction where your business operates. This approach makes it simpler to manage notifications, as they come from a single agent. Additionally, it ensures prompt updates on any regulatory changes, reducing the risk of penalties such as a loss of good standing due to FMCSA non-compliance.
When selecting a blanket process agent, it’s important to choose from the FMCSA’s approved list of blanket service process companies. This ensures compliance with regulatory requirements.
Pricing per state
We understand that meeting the requirements for your commercial auto business can be confusing. That’s why we’ve made it easy to file your BOC-3 form with us! Just remember, the FMCSA requires you to have a process agent in every state you travel through or do business in. Our BOC-3 form includes the names and addresses of these agents.
To file your BOC-3 form with us, the cost is only $99. Once a state court or legal document reaches any of your designated agents, we quickly share the relevant information with you. Keep in mind that there’s a specific fee to get information from the process agent, and these fees vary by state. For your convenience, we’ve outlined these state-specific fees.
| STATE | USD |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $50 |
| Alaska | $115 |
| Arizona | $90 |
| Arkansas | $100 |
| California | $125 |
| Colorado | $50 |
| Connecticut | $75 |
| Delaware | $50 |
| Florida | $50 |
| Georgia | $50 |
| Hawaii | $75 |
| Idaho | $50 |
| Illinois | $75 |
| Indiana | $75 |
| Iowa | $95 |
| Kansas | $50 |
| Kentucky | $50 |
| Louisiana | $50 |
| Maine | $75 |
| Maryland | $100 |
| Massachusetts | $100 |
| Michigan | $50 |
| Minnesota | $95 |
| Mississippi | $50 |
| Missouri | $105 |
| Montana | $50 |
| Nebraska | $50 |
| Nevada | $125 |
| New Hampshire | $50 |
| New Jersey | $100 |
| New Mexico | $50 |
| New York | $85 |
| North Carolina | $50 |
| North Dakota | $115 |
| Ohio | $85 |
| Oklahoma | $105 |
| Oregon | $100 |
| Pennsylvania | $100 |
| Rhode Island | $100 |
| South Carolina | $100 |
| South Dakota | $50 |
| Tennessee | $100 |
| Texas | $80 |
| Utah | $75 |
| Vermont | $100 |
| Virginia | $100 |
| Washington | $100 |
| Washington, DC | $50 |
| West Virginia | $50 |
| Wisconsin | $90 |
| Wyoming | $125 |
What happens after the submission of Form BOC-3?
After electronically filing the BOC-3 form and completing any additional requirements, the FMCSA will issue operating authority. Typically, the operating authority documents are dispatched within 3-4 business days after approval. If more than 10 business days have elapsed since the grant date and you have not received the operating authority document, you can contact us for assistance. Alternatively, you can verify the issuance of your operating authority by checking the FMCSA Licensing and Insurance website.
In certain situations, such as a name change, transfer of authority, or reinstatement of motor carrier operating authority, you may need to refile your BOC-3.