Form BOC-3 - Designation of Agents for Service of Process
Operating a transportation or logistics company in the US requires navigating regulations.
You may have discovered the term “process agent” when attempting to fill out Form BOC-3 (Designation of Agents for Service of Process). Please note: only process agents and freight brokers that do not operate commercial motor vehicles may file Form BOC-3. Motor carriers must have a BOC-3 filed by a process agent on their behalf.
This page will explain how to choose a reliable BOC-3 process agent and why the appointment is necessary. You’ll also find information on what to do once you’ve been issued your BOC-3 appointment. Harbor Compliance can serve as your company’s blanket process agent. We provide annual nationwide representation to cover your company as it grows. We file your BOC-3 with the FMCSA at no additional charge. Once our appointment is confirmed, we provide you with the filed forms for your permanent records.
What Is a BOC-3 Process Agent?
A process agent is a motor carrier’s or freight broker’s legally designated point of contact to receive service of process, transportation violations, and other important legal documents. The process agent maintains a physical address in each state and must be available during regular business hours. The agent is then responsible for forwarding the time-sensitive documents it receives to the company.
Process agents are appointed by filing Form BOC-3 with the FMCSA. This is one of the most important steps to gaining operating authority, or the ability to engage in interstate commerce.
- Motor carriers (of property or passengers) are required to appoint a process agent in each state where they operate.
- Freight brokers are required to appoint a process agent in each state in which they have an office or write contracts.
- Only process agents and freight brokers that do not operate commercial motor vehicles may file Form BOC-3. Motor carriers must have a BOC-3 filed by a process agent on their behalf.
Once Form BOC-3 has been filed, the company is required to retain a copy at its principal place of business. Companies are required to refile BOC-3 if there is a change to their blanket agent or designated process agent in any state.
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BOC-3 PROCESS AGENT DESIGNATION
BOC-3 PROCESS AGENT DESIGNATION
How to appoint a blanket process agent and file Form BOC-3 with the FMCSA.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) legally requires motor carriers and freight brokers to appoint a process agent. Our reliable process agent service fulfills this requirement nationwide. Benefit from our reliable, local presence in every state.
- We prepare Form BOC-3 to appoint ourselves as your process agent
- Same-day electronic delivery of your documents
- Nationwide service is $250 per year
| Form: | Form BOC-3: Designation of Agents for Service of Process |
| Agency Fee: | There is no application fee. |
| Notes: |
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What Are the Advantages of Using a Blanket Process Agent?
Companies can choose between appointing individual process agents in each state they operate in, or a single blanket process agent for all states. Blanket process agents simplify the process by filing a listing statement with the FMCSA that details their nationwide service coverage. This eliminates the need for companies to manage individual agents in each state and reduces the risk of missed documents due to clerical errors. Additionally, blanket agents offer nationwide infrastructure to ensure reliable service of process and can scale to meet the needs of a growing company. Overall, using a blanket process agent saves time and simplifies compliance with FMCSA regulations.
Can Harbor Compliance Serve as My Blanket Process Agent?
Harbor Compliance can serve as your company’s blanket process agent. We file Form BOC-3 with the FMCSA on your behalf. Simply provide us your FMCSA and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) numbers when you sign up. We then provide you a filed copy of Form BOC-3 to retain at your principal place of business.
As your blanket process agent, you benefit from our reliable, local presence in every state. Our nationwide offices receive and scan documents electronically and notify you the same day. We eliminate your need to file change paperwork with the FMCSA and state agencies each time you move. BOC-3 process agent service includes complimentary access to our award-winning Entity Manager software.
- Nationwide Presence: We provide local registered offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. These offices are open during regular business hours to receive legal and government notices.
- Same-Day Document Delivery: We scan your documents locally and deliver them to you electronically. With customizable notifications, you will never miss a delivery no matter where you are.
- Secure Client Portal: Manage your process agent service in a secure, cloud-based Client Portal. Easily configure notifications to alert colleagues and legal counsel of service of process.
- Annual, Flat-Rate Service: Our flat-rate process agent service includes document delivery with no hidden fees. Invoices are accurate and easy to understand.