Starting Your Trucking Company

Entering the trucking industry is an exciting step. Whether you’re passionate about driving, supporting businesses, or contributing to the economy, establishing your own trucking company can be a rewarding venture. If you’re unsure how to start or need guidance to ensure everything is set up correctly, Great American Dispatch Services is here to help. We assist with business formation, vehicle and trailer registration, and all required documentation to get you on the road quickly and legally. No matter where you are in the process, we’re ready to support you.

Creating Your Company

Starting a trucking company involves several legal and administrative steps, including:

• Choosing a Business Name: Conducting a business name check to ensure availability.
• Selecting a Business Structure: Options include Limited Liability Company (LLC), Corporation, Sole Proprietorship, General Partnership, or Limited Partnership.
• Filing the Certificate of Incorporation: Officially registering your business with the state.
• Appointing a Registered Agent: Designating an official point of contact for legal documents.
• Preparing Corporate Bylaws & Holding Initial Meetings: Defining the company’s internal policies and appointing directors.

While we do not provide legal advice, our team can guide you through the necessary filings and paperwork, ensuring compliance with all state and federal regulations.

Title & Registration for Trailers

Getting a Title for Your Trailer

All trailers must be titled before they can be registered for highway use. The titling process generally begins at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), though online applications are available to streamline the process.

• If purchasing a trailer, the seller should transfer the title to your name.
• If leasing a trailer, the lessor should provide a transfer of ownership documentation.
• If buying new from a dealer or manufacturer, you must complete a title application.

Registering Your Trailer

To register your trailer, you must:

1. Submit proof of ownership to the DMV.
2. Complete the registration application.
3. Provide proof of tax payments and insurance coverage.

Title & Registration Fees

• Title fee: $55 (if no lien is on the trailer).
• Annual registration costs (by weight):
  • Up to 1,000 lbs: $15
  • 1,001 to 2,000 lbs: $20
  • 2,001 to 5,000 lbs: $40
  • Over 5,000 lbs: Additional $18 per 1,000 lbs

For interstate operations, apportioned registration is required, allowing you to transport cargo across multiple states without obtaining separate registrations. Fees are distributed based on mileage traveled in each state.

Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT)

In addition to standard business taxes, trucking companies operating vehicles weighing 55,000 lbs or more on public highways must file an HVUT return with the IRS annually.

How Is the HVUT Tax Calculated?

The taxable gross weight includes:
✔ The unloaded weight of the vehicle when fully equipped.
✔ The unloaded weight of the attached trailer/semi-trailer.
✔ The maximum cargo capacity of the truck and trailer.