Are You Ready for the URS?
Businesses big and small have vastly different goals and needs – that’s no revelation. However, nearly every company, no matter how big, where they are, or what they sell, agrees on this point: Simplifying and streamlining business practices helps everyone.
Such is the intent of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Unified Registration System (URS), which is being rolled out in phases.
Of course, as can be the case with any federal regulation, the fine details can get a little confusing (as can the process of getting into compliance). Here are the essentials for navigating the URS.
What is it?
Up to now, all entities regulated by the FMCSA have made use of various forms and processes scattered across platforms both real-world and virtual. The URS will merge all of those into one single online registration system – what the agency is calling a “smart form.”
The intent is to make registrations a simpler, one-stop-shop process, while at the same time increase efficiency, reduce paperwork, and allow the FMCSA to keep more accurate records and better enforce infractions.
The FMCSA estimates that, over a 10-year period, the system will help the industry reap a total savings of $9 million. However, the agency also expects there to be a learning curve, as 16 percent of new registrations are currently submitted on paper.
Who Does the URS Apply to?
Once implementation is complete, the system will handle all record updates and new registration applications for all the entities that the FMCSA oversees. That includes: interstate carriers, brokers, freight forwarders, intermodal equipment providers, cargo tank manufacturing and repair facilities and companies required to hold hazardous materials safety permits.
Mexican-domiciled long-haul carriers are the only entities exempt from the rule.
Know the Dates – and What you Need to do
The FMCSA published its final rule in the Federal Register on October 21, 2015, and a phased launch of the system began on December 12.
The first phase applied to new entrants: As of December 12, all new applicants must go through the URS online system to acquire a USDOT number and Operating Authority. However, any updates required for those new registrations must be filed through existing channels – not the URS.
The next phase begins September 30. As of that date:
- The FMCSA will no longer accept applications by mail or fax. All businesses subject to the rule must use an FMCSA portal account. That can be set up by going here: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/urs.
- MC, FF and MX numbers will no longer be issued. USDOT numbers will become an entity’s sole identifier. Companies that currently don’t have one will be issued one before September 30.
- All new private hazardous materials (HM) and exempt for-hire Carriers must provide evidence of financial responsibility (using form MCS-90).
- All new applicants must file a form BOC-3, designation of a process agent.
- A new fee schedule will take effect.
Confused? Have questions? Need assistance with any of the above?
As always, Foley is here to help. We can create a portal account for you, file your BOC-3, and provide guidance on how to prove financial responsibility. For more information, visit www.foleyservices.com or call us at (800) 253-5506.
About the Author
Christa Krajewski has over eight years experience in DOT regulatory issues and is Foley’s resident compliance expert. In her role at Foley, she works closely with customers to ensure they meet federal drug and alcohol testing requirements. She also provides post-audit support, helping carriers get back in compliance and prepare corrective action plans when needed.
