UCR Filings (Unified Carrier Registration)

The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) program is a federally mandated system for registering and collecting fees from operators of vehicles engaged in interstate or international commerce. It applies to motor carriers, freight forwarders, brokers, and leasing companies according to the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Here are the key aspects of the UCR program:

1. Who Needs to Register: The UCR program requires entities that operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate or international commerce to register their business with a participating state and pay an annual fee based on the size of their fleet. This includes both for-hire and private carriers, as well as others involved in the transport of goods or passengers across state lines.
2. Purpose: The UCR program aims to verify active interstate commercial business and collect fees that are used to support safety programs and enforcement activities related to commercial motor vehicle operations. The program is intended to ensure compliance with federal regulations and improve road safety.
3. Fee Structure: The fees under the UCR program are based on the total number of vehicles in a company's fleet that are used for interstate commerce. There are different tiers or brackets, with fees increasing as the number of vehicles increases. These fees are subject to change and are determined by the UCR Board based on the program's funding needs.
4. Registration Process: Registration is typically done annually through a state's designated UCR system or website. Some states participate directly in the program, while others use a national UCR system for registration.
5. Compliance and Penalties: Compliance with the UCR program is mandatory for carriers operating across state lines. Failure to register or pay the appropriate fees can result in fines and penalties, including being placed out of service during roadside inspections.
6. State Participation: Not all states participate in the UCR program. Carriers based in a non-participating state must register through a neighboring state that does participate. The fees collected go to support safety programs and enforcement activities in participating states.
7. Benefits: Besides being a compliance requirement, participating in the UCR program supports efforts to improve highway safety and enforcement, which benefits the trucking industry and the general public by helping to reduce accidents and improve overall road safety.

The UCR program is an important aspect of the regulatory environment for trucking companies operating in interstate commerce, ensuring that they contribute to the safety and enforcement programs that keep America's roads safe.