Before approving a carrier for dispatch, we review its operating authority, insurance, safety history, driver credentials, and assigned equipment.
These checks help us evaluate each carrier before approving it for dispatch.
Below are the seven steps we follow.
Our Seven-Step Carrier Vetting Checklist
Step 1 — Active FMCSA Authority Confirmed
Before approving a carrier, we verify its operating authority through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). We check its current status before dispatch, even if we've worked with that carrier previously.
Step 2 — Insurance Verified
We require current liability and cargo insurance documentation directly from the carrier's insurance agency. We review the coverage for the shipment and contact the agency whenever additional verification is needed.
Step 3 — Carrier Safety Record Review
We review available FMCSA safety records, including roadside inspections, violations, crash history, and out-of-service incidents. We consider the carrier's overall safety history rather than relying on a single score to determine whether it meets our dispatch standards.
When a carrier has a conditional safety rating, we examine the circumstances behind that rating and any relevant corrective actions as part of our review.
Step 4 — Distracted Driving History
We pay particular attention to distracted-driving violations when reviewing a carrier's safety history. These violations are an important factor in our decision to approve a carrier for dispatch.
Step 5 — Driver License Verified
Before dispatch, we request and review the assigned driver's license information. We check the credentials for validity and potential concerns as part of our carrier approval process.
Step 6 — Truck VIN Validated
We review the assigned truck's VIN against the carrier's insurance documentation before dispatch to confirm it meets our coverage requirements.
Step 7 — Carrier Reputation & Performance Review
We review available carrier ratings and feedback on transport management platforms, along with our internal records and past experience with the carrier. We consider reliability, communication, damage history, and other performance concerns when deciding whether to approve a carrier for dispatch.
For more on what affects the cost of vehicle shipping, read: Why Auto Transport Costs More in 2026
For a full explanation of what a conditional safety rating means — read: What Is a Conditional Safety Rating — And Why Your Broker Should Care
Why This Process Exists
Carrier selection involves more than confirming that a company is licensed and insured. We look at the information available, evaluate potential concerns, and use our experience to make informed decisions before dispatch.
These seven checks are part of our responsibility as your auto transport broker. Our goal is straightforward: select qualified carriers, communicate clearly, and coordinate your shipment from pickup through delivery.
What Happens After We Approve a Carrier?
Once we've reviewed and approved a carrier, we present the proposed rate and pickup schedule for your acceptance. After you approve the arrangement, we provide your dispatch information and coordinate the shipment from pickup through delivery.
