Shipmater

For Carriers & Service Providers

Service Provider
Compliance Requirements

Every carrier and service provider on Shipmater must meet minimum standards that protect shippers, receivers, and the integrity of the platform. Requirements vary by service type.

Requirements by Service Type

General Freight / Hotshot / Flatbed

Required

  • Active USDOT Number (FMCSA registered)
  • Active MC Authority (if interstate)
  • Commercial Auto Liability — minimum $750,000
  • Cargo Insurance — minimum $100,000
  • Valid DOT Medical Examiner Certificate

Recommended

  • CDL Class A or B
  • FMCSA Cargo Securement Certification

Hazardous Materials

Required

  • Active USDOT Number
  • Active MC Authority
  • CDL with HAZMAT Endorsement
  • DOT Hazardous Materials Certification (49 CFR 172.704)
  • Commercial Auto Liability — minimum $1,000,000
  • Valid DOT Medical Examiner Certificate
  • DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing Program

Recommended

  • ELD Compliance
  • OSHA 30-Hour General Industry

Auto Transport

Required

  • Active USDOT Number
  • Active MC Authority
  • Commercial Auto Liability — minimum $750,000
  • Cargo / On-Hook Insurance — minimum $250,000

Recommended

  • CDL Class B
  • FMCSA Cargo Securement Certification

Flatbed / Heavy Haul / Oversize

Required

  • Active USDOT Number
  • Active MC Authority
  • CDL Class A
  • Commercial Auto Liability — minimum $1,000,000
  • Cargo Insurance — minimum $100,000

Recommended

  • FMCSA Cargo Securement Certification
  • Load Securement Training

Ongoing Compliance

Approval to join the platform is not permanent. Carriers must maintain active standing:

Insurance certificates must remain active — expiry is tracked and carriers are suspended 7 days before lapse if not renewed

DOT Medical Examiner Certificates are tracked for expiry

HAZMAT certifications require renewal every 3 years per federal regulation

Carriers falling below a 3.0 rating are placed under review

Background checks and Clearinghouse queries may be re-run annually for hazmat and high-value service types

Grounds for Suspension

Carriers with lapsed insurance, expired DOT medical certificates, failed background checks, sustained complaint patterns, or FMCSA safety violations are suspended from receiving new jobs. Suspended accounts receive notice and a 14-day resolution window before account termination.

Ready to join the network?

Create your carrier account and complete your profile with your certifications and service types.

Apply as a carrier