In the
transportation industry, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
(FMSCA) is tasked to ensure the smooth running of the country’s transportation
industry. So, in this stead, they have devised procedures to ensure just that.
If you are starting a motor carrier business, broker firm, freight forwarding or
any business relating to the transportation of goods, vehicles and other items,
then you have to do a BOC 3 registration
and designate a Service of Process (SOP) agent.
An SOP
agent is an individual who is designated to receive and submit legal documents
on your behalf. When you file a BOC 3 application, which stands for a blanket
of coverage, you designate an individual to accept legal documents on your or
your company’s behalf. The state, in which you wish to operate, then recognizes
that particular individual as your SOP agent.
The Registration Process
Before filing a BOC 3 registration, it is prudent to know the details of the entire process. So as to avoid inconvenience afterwards. First of all, the FMSCA accepts the form electronically, thus you have to apply on their website. During the application filing process, following information is to be provided:- Full name of the carrier
- Address of the company
- Individual authorized to sign and title
- SOP agents name, the state name and address in that particular state
It is to
make absolutely sure that the agent is physically present in that particular
state, and also has designated business hours. This way, the documents sent to
him will be received on time.
Outsourcing The BOC 3 application process:
Instead of
hiring SOP agents for each individual state, you can also outsource it a
Service of Process company. This way, you will be able to achieve blanket
designation. A blanket designation grants only one individual the right to
receive legal documents on your behalf, from all the states that your company
operates in or wishes to operate in.
This
method is not only cost-effective but will also save you from the hassle of
receiving messages from particular individuals. An SOP company will only charge
you an annual fee, and no additional costs. They will also take care of the
application process. Thus, you can focus on your business.
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