In recent times, the trucking industry has seen a surge in fraudulent activities. Here at Bobtail, we’re committed to keeping you informed and protected.  

A new and alarming threat has emerged that demands the attention of small trucking business owners—scams targeting your operating authority, also known as your MC number.

What does this new MC scam look like?

We’ve received reports of scammers targeting motor carriers with offers to “purchase” their MC numbers for cash. Typically, these unsolicited offers come from “buyers” outside the United States and range between $3,000 and $5,000.

It’s important for business owners to recognize the serious risks associated with selling their MC number outside the official process. Regardless of whether or not you received payment for the use of your authority, you can be held legally liable for any fraudulent activities carried out using your MC number. These damages can amount to more than $100,000.

Official Transfer Process

If you are interested in selling your business and transferring your operating authority to someone else, the FMCSA has an official process for doing so. We understand the challenges faced by small carriers in the current freight market, but taking shortcuts can result in dire consequences.

If a potential buyer is not willing to follow the official transfer process, it’s a red flag. This reluctance likely signals fraudulent intentions. Small trucking business owners should exercise caution, conduct due diligence, and prioritize the long-term security of their operations over short-term gains.

Bobtail’s Commitment to Your Safety

At Bobtail, your well-being is our top priority. We want to empower small trucking businesses with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves from scams and fraudulent activities. Our team is dedicated to reporting any instances of fraud to the FMCSA, contributing to the industry’s overall safety and integrity.

We understand the challenges you face, and we’re here to support you. Stay informed about the latest scams, exercise vigilance when approached with unsolicited offers, and report any suspicious activity to the FMCSA. Together, we can create a safer and more secure environment for small trucking businesses.

For more information on how to protect your business from fraud, read our article, How to Avoid Freight Scams and Fraud in Trucking. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at hello@bobtail.com.