Freight Broker Bond (BMC-84)

Any individual or business operating as a freight broker or freight forwarder in Ohio (or anywhere in the U.S.) needs the BMC-84 bond. This is a federal requirement enforced by the FMCSA under 49 U.S.C. § 13906. If you arrange transportation of property for compensation across state lines, you must provide this $75,000 bond before obtaining your broker operating authority. Operating without it is illegal.

You file the BMC-84 bond through the FMCSA's Unified Registration System (URS) when applying for or renewing your freight broker authority using the OP-1 form. Your surety company will provide the bond document, which you then submit as proof of financial responsibility. The bond must remain active continuously while you hold broker authority, and FMCSA requires annual verification.

The BMC-84 bond protects motor carriers and shippers from financial losses caused by the broker's failure to comply with FMCSA regulations. Common claims include failure to pay carriers for services rendered, fraudulent practices, or breach of contract. If a valid claim is filed and proven, the surety company pays the claim (up to $75,000), and the broker must reimburse the surety company.