The BMC-84 bond is a federally-required $75,000 surety bond that protects shippers and motor carriers from financial loss due to broker fraud, non-payment, or failure to meet contractual obligations. All freight brokers must maintain this bond to operate legally under FMCSA regulations, and it must be filed electronic…
Overview
What it is.
The BMC-84 bond is a federally-required $75,000 surety bond that protects shippers and motor carriers from financial loss due to broker fraud, non-payment, or failure to meet contractual obligations. All freight brokers must maintain this bond to operate legally under FMCSA regulations, and it must be filed electronic…
Who usually needs it
All freight brokers and freight forwarders arranging transportation of property by motor vehicle in the United States. This applies to anyone seeking or maintaining broker authority through the FMCSA OP-1 application process.
Pricing & timing
What to expect.
Generic pricing
Freight broker bonds (BMC-84) are required by FMCSA for freight brokers and forwarders. Typical Pricing:. • Bond amount: $75,000 (required by federal regulation). • Rates: Commonly around 1–5% based on credit, with annual premiums typically starting around $750–$3,750. • Credit impact: Good credit: starting around 1–2% · Average credit: typically 2–4% · Credit challenges: often 4–5% or higher. Multiple programs are available, including options for applicants with less-than-perfect credit. R…
Typical timeframe
Credit-based approval — typically 1–2 business days
Application
What to do next.
Tell us the bond name, state, and amount on your form.
Share business and applicant info so the team can quote it.
Sign and pay; we issue the bond and send you the documents.
Keep your effective date and renewal date on file with us.
Start the application.
You are on the exact bond page. The next step is to start the quick application.
StateILBond amount$75,000ObligeeFederal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)Bond classFreight Broker BondCategoryTransportationBondFreight Broker Bond (BMC-84)Plain descriptionThe BMC-84 bond is a federally-required $75,000 surety bond that protects shippers and motor carriers from financial loss due to broker fraud, non-payment, or failure to meet contractual obligations. All freight brokers…Who needs this bondAll freight brokers and freight forwarders arranging transportation of property by motor vehicle in the United States. This applies to anyone seeking or maintaining broker authority through the FMCSA OP-1 application pr…
FAQ
Common questions.
Who is required to obtain a BMC-84 Freight Broker Bond?
All freight brokers and freight forwarders who arrange transportation of property by motor vehicle must obtain a BMC-84 bond. This is a federal requirement enforced by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) for anyone seeking or maintaining broker authority. The bond is filed as part of the OP-1 application process and is required nationwide, regardless of which state you operate from.
What does the BMC-84 bond protect against?
The BMC-84 bond protects shippers and motor carriers from financial losses caused by freight broker violations such as non-payment to carriers, fraud, or failure to meet contractual obligations. If a valid claim is filed, the surety company investigates and pays approved claims up to the $75,000 bond amount. The surety then seeks reimbursement from the broker who purchased the bond.
What happens if my BMC-84 bond falls below $75,000 due to claims?
If claims reduce your bond below the required $75,000, the FMCSA will notify you that you must replenish the bond to the full amount within 7 days. Failure to restore the bond to $75,000 will result in suspension of your broker authority. You must maintain the full $75,000 bond amount at all times to remain in compliance and keep your operating authority active.
