VMT Filing

Written by Nick Webster

Published on March 25, 2023, 11 a.m.

VMT Filing

VMT filing refers to “Vehicle Miles Traveled.” It is a term used to describe the process of reporting the number of miles driven by commercial motor vehicles. Here are some bullet points that explain VMT filing in more detail:

  • IFTA requires carriers to report the number of miles driven and the amount of fuel consumed in each state or province where they operate.

  • The VMT report must be filed quarterly, and it is used to calculate the amount of fuel tax owed to each jurisdiction. What is DOT SAP Program?

  • To complete the VMT report, carriers must track the number of miles driven in each jurisdiction, as well as the fuel consumed in each jurisdiction.

  • Carriers can track VMT manually or by using electronic logging devices (ELDs) or other tracking technology.

  • VMT filing is an important part of compliance for carriers that operate in multiple jurisdictions, as failure to file or inaccuracies in the report can result in fines and other penalties. How To Request the DOT PIN Number?

  • By accurately reporting VMT, carriers can ensure that they pay the correct amount of fuel tax to each jurisdiction, and contribute to the maintenance and improvement of the roads and infrastructure they use.

  • VMT filing is one of many regulatory requirements that carriers must meet to operate legally and safely in the trucking industry.

Why You Should Update Your VMT & PU Data

Your Vehicle Miles Travelled (VMT) and Power Unit (PU) metrics, reported on your Motor Carrier Registration form (MCS-150), are used to calculate the Unsafe Driving and Crash Indicator Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Category (BASIC) percentiles that reflect your performance as a motor carrier. A higher percentile indicates better compliance with safety standards. These BASIC percentiles provide insight into how you're doing in terms of safe operations compared to other carriers. Taking proactive steps to reduce unsafe driving habits or crash incidents can help you improve these scores and demonstrate a commitment to safety. Must visit FMCSA Hours of Service Suspended topics.

Maintain Registration With the FMCSA Through a USDOT Biennial Update

Are you behind on your USDOT Biennial Updates? Our third-party organization can help get you back in compliance with FMCSA regulations. The FMCSA requires companies to update their USDOT information every two years. Failure to do so can result in fines or the loss of operating authority. Don't risk it! Let FMCSAregistration.com’s DOT compliance services division make sure you stay up-to-date. Visit DOT Authority Package, Tips to prepare for 2022 DOT Week filings in minutes. How to get Oregon Trip And Fuel Permit?

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What Are USDOT Biennial Updates?

Carriers and entities regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration must keep their information up to date. Every two years, they must file a biennial update. That is the case even if there are no changes to their company information or if they have stopped doing interstate operations since the last update. Also, take a look at Drug and Alcohol Program policy.

This update includes key information about your company, such as its:

  • name
  • location of registration
  • operating procedures
  • fleet size

It also requires details regarding the number of vehicles and drivers in the organization's fleet. Other FMCSA-mandated requirements may be included in the biennial update filing. Keeping this information up to date is essential for businesses to remain compliant with federal regulations. By submitting an accurate and timely biennial update, companies can ensure they are in compliance with all applicable laws. Failure to submit a correct biennial update could result in penalties or restrictions on operations. Must visit the link.

Having a biennial update filed and maintained can be complicated for motor carriers. At our organization, we make the process simple by collecting your necessary information and filing the update on your behalf. This allows you to relax knowing that everything is taken care of without having to worry about it. Let us take the load off so you can focus on what's important, which is running your business! What is DOT Clearinghouse Enforcement?

Do I Have To Update My DOT Number Information?

Outdated VMT notifications are like "stop" signs for trucking businesses. Every two years, companies must update the information associated to their DOT numbers or risk facing major fines and penalties. Not to mention, there is also the possibility of losing your authority. To complete the biennial registration process with the FMCSA, all trucks and motor carriers must have an assigned DOT number displayed. Non-compliance can be very costly, so be sure that your business is up-to-date! Importance of The FMCSA 30-Minute Break Rule.

What If My Carrier Is Going Out of Business?

If you are discontinuing your motor carrier operations, the correct way to deactivate your U.S. DOT Number is by filling out an up-to-date MCS-150 form and checking the box marked "out of business.” You will need to send this information either via mail or fax to the FMCSA. Unfortunately, it cannot be done online. Ensure that all the necessary details are filled in correctly and with accuracy before submitting it. This will ensure a quick and efficient process. What is Unified Carrier Registration?

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Is Filing the Biennial Update Simple?

Yes, absolutely! To get started, you will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (SSN). If you are a sole proprietor, you'll require a U.S. DOT Number for your business. Be sure to also have the official name and mailing address of your company on hand in addition to your Personal Identification Number (PIN). You can request a PIN from the FMCSA website and all other instructions will be presented as you move through the steps. Once you're ready, it's time to hit the open roads! Read about Texas DOT Number and USDOT Number. Learn here How to Prepare for a Compliance DOT Audit.

How Do I File the MCS-150 Form?

It's essential to determine the due date for filing your MCS-150 form. How do you know when to submit it? Look at the last two digits of your U.S. DOT Number—they will tell you! If your number ends in an odd digit, file your form during odd-numbered years (e.g., 2025, 2027, 2029...). On the other hand, if it concludes with an even digit, that means you should submit your MCS-150 in even-numbered years (e.g., 2024, 2026, 2028...). Knowing when to file is a crucial part of the process. Plan accordingly and stay on top of those deadlines! You will need driver qualification files filed out by all employees that drive for you working. Also, take a look at What Is IRP or Apportioned Registration.

Your U.S. DOT Number's very last digit will determine the month for filing this form. For instance, if it ends in 1, you must submit your paperwork on or before the last day of January; a 2 at the end means that you'll need to file by February's final day; and so on until 12, when it needs to be done by December's last day.

Summary: What Is VMT Filing?

  • VMT stands for Vehicle Miles Traveled and is a form of reporting used to measure mileage for truckers.

  • This system is designed to help track how much time and money truckers are spending on the road, making it easier for them to be aware of their expenses. Must visit the link.

  • It requires drivers to submit reports each month documenting their total miles traveled as well as any extra services they may have provided such as hauling goods or delivering packages.

  • The data collected from these reports helps the government, businesses and industry leaders understand trends in the transportation industry. This allows them to make better decisions when it comes to regulation, taxation and other policies.