Broker Transparency Rule: Comments Period Ends Tomorrow

FMCSA’s New Broker Transparency Rule: Comment Deadline Tomorrow

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has proposed changes to broker transparency rules. These changes respond to concerns from truckers and industry groups. The goal is to make it easier for truckers and shippers to access important records about their freight transactions.

The proposal follows requests from the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) and the Small Business in Transportation Coalition (SBTC). They say brokers should provide transaction records faster and more clearly.

What the Proposed Broker Transparency Rule Would Change

The FMCSA’s proposed rule would bring several big changes. These include:

• Electronic Recordkeeping: Brokers would need to keep records in an electronic format. This change makes it easier for truckers and shippers to get the information they need. They won’t have to visit a broker’s office in person.

• Faster Record Access: Brokers must provide records within 48 hours of a request. This will help settle payment and service issues more quickly.

• More Detailed Records: Brokers must include all charges and payments related to each shipment. Records should list all costs, payment dates, and any claims, such as penalties for delays or damage.

• Clearer Broker Responsibilities: The rule would make it clear that brokers must provide records when requested. Right now, some brokers include contract terms that prevent truckers from accessing their records. The new rule would stop this practice and require brokers to follow transparency rules.

What People Are Saying About Broker Transparency

Many truckers and industry groups support the changes. They believe these rules will make business fairer. Some truckers say they often struggle to get the records they need. This makes it hard to check payments and solve problems.

On the other hand, some brokers worry about the costs of these changes. They say electronic recordkeeping and faster responses could add extra work and expenses. Some also argue that FMCSA should not interfere with their business contracts.

How to Submit a Comment

The deadline to submit comments is tomorrow, January 21, 2025. Anyone who wants to share their thoughts can do so in several ways:

• Online: Go to www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions to submit a comment.

• By Mail: Send comments to:
  Dockets Operations, U.S. Department of Transportation,
  1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
  West Building, Ground Floor,
  Washington, DC 20590.

• In Person: Comments can be hand-delivered to the DOT’s West Building. The office is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except on federal holidays.

What This Could Mean for Truckers

If the rule is approved, truckers will have an easier time getting the information they need. This could help them avoid disputes over payments and services. Trucking businesses and brokers are encouraged to review the proposal and submit their comments before the deadline.

For more details, contact FMCSA’s Commercial Enforcement Division at (202) 568-0530 or email michael.evans@dot.gov.

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