Understanding the Permits Required for Cross-Border Trucking

Starting a trucking company in Ontario can be a complex process, especially if you plan to operate cross-border trucking services into the United States. There are a number of licenses and permits that are required to legally operate a trucking company in Ontario and to comply with the regulations of both Canada and the United States. In this blog post, we will provide an overview of the different permits required to set up a trucking company based in Ontario that does cross-border trucking in the U.S.

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Carrier Operating License:

In Ontario, you will need to obtain a carrier operating license from the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) in order to legally operate a trucking company. This license will authorize you to transport goods and passengers within the province of Ontario.
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Safety Fitness Certificate:

Before you can operate a trucking company in Ontario, you will also need to obtain a safety fitness certificate from the MTO. This certificate will verify that your company meets the safety standards set by the MTO and that your vehicles are in compliance with the regulations.

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Commercial Vehicle Operator's Registration (CVOR):

In Ontario, all commercial vehicles that weigh over 4,500 kgs must be registered with the CVOR system. This registration is required for all commercial vehicles that operate within Ontario and on the highways of other provinces and the United States.

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U.S. Operating Authority:

If you plan to operate cross-border trucking services into the United States, you will need to obtain a U.S. Operating Authority from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This authority will allow you to legally transport goods and passengers across the border and operate within the United States.

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IFTA - International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA):

IFTA is a fuel tax agreement between the lower 48 states of the United States and the Canadian provinces. This permit will allow you to purchase fuel in one jurisdiction and use it in another without having to pay fuel taxes in each jurisdiction.

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ELD - Electronic Logging Device (ELD):

ELD is a device that records the hours of service of the driver. ELD is mandatory for all commercial vehicles operating in the United States.

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Customs Brokerage:

If you plan to transport goods across the border, you may need to hire a customs broker to help you clear your goods through customs. This will help you to avoid any delays or penalties that may be incurred if your goods are not properly cleared.

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In conclusion, starting a trucking company in Ontario that does cross-border trucking in the U.S. requires obtaining a number of permits and licenses. It is important to understand the regulations and requirements of both Canada and the United States, to ensure that your company is fully compliant with the laws and regulations of both countries. It's highly recommended to consult with a legal and logistics expert to ensure a smooth and legal operation.