Safety and Fitness Electronic Records System (SAFER)/Motor carrier profile

Scope

The MCS-150 is used by carriers to complete the required biennial update.

Regulatory citations

• None

Key definitions

• None

Summary of requirements

MCS-150 and MCSA-1. MCS-150 is no longer used to obtain a United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) number. New entrant motor carriers use an online-only form, MCSA-1, to obtain a USDOT number. The MCSA-1 form was implemented as part of FMCSA’s Unified Registration System (URS-1) initiative to consolidate enterprise systems into one easy-to-use system. The Form MCSA-1 is an online-only form that collects information such as:

• Carrier identification;
• Carrier size (number of power units and drivers);
• Commodity information; and
• Any required for-hire authorities.

The MCS-150 form is to be used by all existing carriers only to file updates with the FMCSA. Carriers should periodically (once every six months is recommended) check the information on their MCS-150 form. Section 390.19 requires motor carriers to file the MCS-150 every 24 months in accordance with the timetable specified in the regulation. It is important that the information remains accurate and up to date.

Neglecting to file a new form can increase a carrier’s chances of being placed at the top of the Safety Measurement System (SMS) list. For example, if a carrier has an increase in accidents, but has not reported an increase in the number of power units or vehicle miles traveled for the company, its Accident BASIC will be very high. This could place a carrier at the top of the list, prompting an intervention.

SAFER. SAFER can be accessed online. Once connected with the SAFER website, the user will be asked for one of three pieces of information in order to obtain the carrier snapshot:

• DOT number,
• Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) or Motor Carrier ID number, or
• The carrier’s name.

The easiest way to search the website is by using either the carrier’s DOT number or Motor Carrier ID number.

The information posted on the SAFER website is also available by calling (800) 832-5660 in the U.S. or (703) 280-4001 outside the U.S.