What is their federal DOT number?
A DOT (Department of Transportation) Number is assigned by the US Government and is required to operate legally. The carrier’s DOT number can be used to check their safety rating with the US DOT (see next tip). What is their DOT Safety Rating? The US Department of Transportation (DOT) issues safety ratings based on the company’s accident record and adherence to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. The highest possible rating is Satisfactory. Other ratings include Conditional, Not Rated, or Unsatisfactory. You can verify safety ratings by calling the DOT Safety Hotline at (800) 832-5660 or on the world-wide web at http://www.safersys.org. Many newer carriers may not have been inspected, leaving you to guess about their safety and hiring habits. Any carrier can request a DOT inspection and safety rating. You should never charter from a company with an unsatisfactory rating … and think twice about any carrier with no rating! Ask for a Certificate of Insurance. Your carrier should b
