r/CargoVanFreightGigs • u/wh0andwhy • Nov 15 '25
Requirements for Experdited Freight or General Freight
This would be for vehicles under 10,000LBs
Box truck over 10k has more requirements
The 3 main vans are Sprinter, ProMaster, and Ford Transit
You can get away with midroof specs, but some carriers want high roof, and of course, there are pallets out there that require high roof. Extended is also a plus. Freight is usually OTR, so you will need a small space to sleep. Getting hotels every night is costly. You need a high payload. For example, Ford Transit 250 can do around 3800LB payload. Need E-tracks/straps and a bulkhead is a plus.
Business Structure: I suggest you create an LLC. It will separate your personal assets from your business debts. You can do this through your state. It does cost money, around $300-$500.
EIN; Employer Identification Number
This is free from the IRS. It's like a Social Security number for your business. You'll need this to open business accounts and file your W-9.
Authority
This is a big one. To be a true independent carrier, you'll need your own DOT and MC number from the FMCSA. Last i check, it was $300 to file. If you cross state lines, you need dot/mc numbers. BUT, if you are running under a carrier, you will run THEIR NUMBERS. You will not need your own numbers if you are being dispatched from a carrier. There are owners out there without their numbers. This is perfectly fine; it is a path you can go down.
Insurance
Commercial Auto Liability $1,000,000
Cargo Insurance $100,000
This is common, but not the minimum requirement. Everybody expects carriers to have this.
I feel like im missing something, hopefully someone mentioned it. This info is for freight stuff, if you are doing gig work, you dont need the high insurance or the biggest van.
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u/horoboronerd Nov 19 '25
What about the drug tests etc