If you're applying for or holding FMCSA freight broker authority, the $75,000 BMC-84 surety bond is one of the core requirements. Without it, your operating authority will be revoked. Here's the complete guide.
What is the BMC-84 bond?
The BMC-84 is a federal surety bond required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for all licensed freight brokers and freight forwarders. It protects motor carriers and shippers if a licensed broker fails to pay for transportation services, goes out of business without paying carriers, or violates federal regulations.
Who needs the BMC-84 bond?
- Property freight brokers — anyone arranging transportation of general freight
- Household goods brokers
- Freight forwarders
- Any entity applying for or holding an MC number with broker authority
What the BMC-84 bond costs
The BMC-84 is a $75,000 federal bond — larger than most state bonds, which means higher premiums:
- Excellent credit: $900–$1,500/year
- Good credit: $1,500–$2,500/year
- Fair to poor credit: $2,500–$5,000+/year
Rates also depend on your business financials, time in business, and claims history. New brokers sometimes pay more due to limited business history.
BMC-84 vs BMC-85 — what's the difference?
Both satisfy the FMCSA bond requirement but work differently:
- BMC-84 (Surety Bond): You pay an annual premium to a surety company who guarantees the $75,000. No cash tied up. Most freight brokers use this option.
- BMC-85 (Trust Fund): You deposit $75,000 in a qualifying trust account. No annual premium but $75,000 in cash is tied up. Only makes sense for brokers with strong cash reserves who want to avoid ongoing premium costs.
For most freight brokers, the BMC-84 surety bond is the practical choice.
How to get your BMC-84 bond
- Apply through our bond portal — search "BMC-84"
- Provide business information and authorize a credit check
- Receive your bond and pay the premium
- Your surety files the BMC-84 with FMCSA electronically (typically within 1 business day)
- Verify your bond status at the FMCSA licensing portal
Get your BMC-84 freight broker bond
Fast approval · FMCSA-compliant · Multiple sureties for best rate
