MKON Transportation Compliance
Services and Support
for Alberta Truckers
Initial Trucking Company Setup
The list below outlines the potential requirements to set up a new Trucking Company in Canada and the United States. Not all the items are always required, it depends on your personal and company goals as well as where you will be driving, only in Alberta? Across Canada? Or in Canada and the United States. Whatever the answer, MKON is here to help you set everything up for you, and manage everything going forward, in a timely manner, and with extra advice, because we focus on a long-term partnership and trust-based relationship.
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Incorporating your business can provide many benefits, such as limiting personal liability, increasing credibility with customers and investors, and allowing for easy transfer of your trucking company ownership. It can also provide potential tax advantages to you and your transportation company, and make it easier to raise money such as investments or loans from the back to finance your trucks or trailers.
At MKON, we specialize in guiding trucking companies through the incorporation process, ensuring you fully leverage these benefits to optimize your operations and growth potential.
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Safety Fitness Certificate (SFC) is a document issued by the Canadian government to commercial trucking companies, which certifies that the company meets the safety standards set out by the Canadian National Safety Code (NSC). It is mandatory for all commercial trucking companies operating in Canada to have a valid SFC.
At MKON, we expertly navigate the complexities of obtaining a Safety Fitness Certificate, ensuring your trucking company meets all Canadian National Safety Code standards and operates with recognized safety credentials.
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Workers' Compensation Board (WCB) insurance is crucial for any trucking business. It provides coverage for workers in case of work-related injuries or illnesses, helping to cover medical expenses and lost wages. By registering for WCB, trucking businesses not only comply with legal obligations, but they also foster a safer, more secure working environment. It displays a commitment to employee welfare, which can boost morale, reduce turnover, and enhance the company's reputation. Furthermore, WCB insurance can protect the business from potential lawsuits related to workplace injuries, providing financial stability and peace of mind.
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Prorate registration, also known as the International Registration Plan (IRP), is a vital aspect of operating commercial vehicles across different jurisdictions in Canada and the United States. Easily manage cross-border trips in Canada and the United States by dividing registration fees based on miles driven. Enjoy hassle-free operations, less paperwork, and better compliance.
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IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) registration simplifies fuel tax reporting for commercial vehicles traveling across different provinces and states in Canada and U.S. If one fails to register for IFTA, they may face penalties, fines, and delays at weigh stations, which is lost money and time.
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Obtaining and maintaining a USDOT number is essential for commercial vehicle operators in the United States. The USDOT number serves as a unique identifier for safety compliance and tracking purposes. It is required for carriers involved in interstate commerce and certain intrastate commerce, depending on the state's regulations. Regular updates are necessary, with carriers required to update their information every two years, or as changes occur. Keeping your USDOT number current is vital for staying compliant and avoiding penalties or fines.
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Obtaining and maintaining an active MC number is essential for commercial vehicle operators providing interstate transportation services in the United States. The MC number, issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), signifies operating authority and is required for carriers involved in interstate commerce. Ensuring your MC number remains active and up-to-date is crucial for staying compliant, avoiding penalties, and maintaining smooth operations.
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The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) program is a mandatory annual registration for commercial vehicle operators involved in interstate transportation within the United States. UCR compliance ensures carriers meet federal and state requirements for operating authority. It is crucial to renew your UCR registration annually to avoid penalties, fines, and potential disruptions to your trucking operations.
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Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a crucial step for businesses in the United States, including commercial vehicle operators. The EIN, issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), serves as a unique identifier for tax purposes and is necessary for various business functions, such as hiring employees or opening bank accounts. Ensuring your EIN is properly registered and utilized is vital for maintaining compliance with tax regulations and supporting your business's growth.
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Obtaining a Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC) is essential for commercial vehicle operators involved in international trade and transportation. The SCAC, issued by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), serves as a unique identifier for carriers and is required for various transactions, including customs clearance, electronic data interchange (EDI), and freight payment. Ensuring your SCAC is properly registered and up-to-date is vital for maintaining compliance and enabling smooth international transportation operations.
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Obtaining a Carrier Code is essential for commercial vehicle operators involved in cross-border trade between Canada and the United States. The Carrier Code, issued by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), serves as a unique identifier for carriers and is required for various transactions, including customs clearance and electronic data interchange (EDI). Ensuring your Carrier Code is properly registered and up-to-date is vital for maintaining compliance and enabling smooth cross-border transportation operations.
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Maintaining a valid BOC-3 (Designation of Process Agents) filing is essential for commercial vehicle operators who hold an active MC number and provide interstate transportation services in the United States. The BOC-3 filing, required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), designates a process agent to receive legal documents on your behalf in each state in which you operate. Ensuring your BOC-3 filing remains current is crucial for maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties or loss of operating authority.
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Establishing a drug testing program is a critical requirement for commercial vehicle operators in the United States. As mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), carriers must comply with drug and alcohol testing regulations, which include pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and follow-up testing. These tests screen for substances and drugs.
Compliance with drug and alcohol testing requirements helps ensure the safety of your drivers, the public, and your business. Failure to comply can lead to severe penalties, fines, and loss of operating authority.
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Ongoing Compliance Support
Maintaining compliance is a continuous journey. It's an ongoing commitment necessary to achieve the successful operation of a logistics company. MKON is here to assist with all your needs for continuous regulatory compliance in the trucking industry. MKON Ongoing Compliance Support ensures your trucking business remains aligned with industry standards and National Safety Code regulations, not just in the initial years, but throughout your business journey.
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o Organize Company Documents
o Review Monthly Carrier Profile to find any tickets and/or violations
o Updated Carrier Package
o Document expiration notifications and reminders
You will also get free access to MKON dashboard which will provide you with a way to easily see and manage all your company, driver and truck documents at any time, as long as you have access to the internet.
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o Initial Documents are set up for driver
o Follow up with additional training and any expired documents
o Drivers Trainings
You will also get free access to MKON dashboard which will provide you with a way to easily see and manage all your company, driver and truck documents at any time, as long as you have access to the internet.
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o Initial Truck onboarding Documents
o Follow up with expired truck documents
o Follow up with maintenance on truck
You will also get free access to MKON dashboard which will provide you with a way to easily see and manage all your company, driver and truck documents at any time, as long as you have access to the internet.
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Access to a basic or enhanced Safety Manual and Maintenance Program depending on your size and needs.
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New Carrier Audits are assessments conducted on newly registered trucking companies, usually within their first year of operation. The purpose of these audits is to ensure that the carrier is in compliance with safety regulations and standards. These audits typically evaluate the carrier's safety practices, including driver qualifications, maintenance and inspection schedules, hours of service compliance, and record-keeping.
MKON can prepare and help you through a New Carrier Audit.
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MKON offers review of the driver’s ELD records.
ELD log reviews are crucial for ensuring compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, promoting driver safety, and avoiding fatigue-related accidents. By reviewing ELD logs, carriers can identify discrepancies, potential violations, and areas for improvement, helping to maintain a safe and compliant operation.
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o Hours of Service (HOS)
o Securing Cargo & Weight Dimensions (SC&WD)
o Fatigue Management (FM)
o Vehicle Weight and Dimensions (VWD)
o Pre-Trip Walk-Around Inspection (PTWAI)
o Drug and Alcohol Training (DAT)
o Dangerous Goods (DG) or Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG)
Driver training is a fundamental aspect of running a successful trucking business. Investing in comprehensive driver education programs not only helps improve overall safety on the road but also increases the efficiency of your operations. Proper training equips drivers with the necessary skills to handle diverse road conditions, manage fatigue, and comply with industry regulations.
At MKON, we offer a range of driver training services tailored to the unique needs of your trucking business. With our support, you can ensure that your drivers are well-prepared to tackle the challenges they encounter, contributing to the long-term success and reputation of your company.
Ongoing Administration and Operation Support
Once your company is set up and the necessary accounts with the governments are registered, it’s time to find loads and run your business. You know best how to do that, and that is what you want to do. We know how to take care of the things you don’t want to deal with, and we want to take care of them. Below is a short list of things we can take off your hands.
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At MKON, we provide more than just Ongoing Administration and Operation Support. We offer you control and transparency through our unique company dashboard, which we call InfoCenter.
InfoCenter is a tool we designed and built with your needs in mind. InfoCenter empowers trucking company owners to manage and monitor their key business information conveniently and in one place. From account details to company, driver, and vehicle documents, everything is accessible in one place. Furthermore, it allows you to keep track of critical document expirations, ensuring you remain compliant and well-prepared.
InfoCenter is your command center for seamless business administration and experience of the MKON difference.
Call us to learn more about InfoCenter
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Hiring and onboarding a new driver is essential to your trucking business's success. Driver not only needs to be vetted but also the proper documentation needs to be kept on file for any future government requests. If not done correctly, the best thing that could happen is your business will be fined with a ticket, and the worst thing that could happen is your business being severely impacted long term by limiting your ability to operate your business because your drivers are not properly vetted or you do not have the appropriate driver documents on file.
At MKON, we offer a streamlined Driver Onboarding Process via our innovative tool, InfoCenter. This service simplifies the process of welcoming and vetting new drivers into your team by centralizing all onboarding steps and information in one place. With InfoCenter, driver onboarding becomes a more manageable, organized, and efficient process, allowing you to focus more on your business's smooth operation.
Let InfoCenter handle the complexities of driver onboarding so you can steer your company to success.
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A Carrier Package is arguably one of the most important marketing materials you have as a trucking company to get new business. The first thing you will be asked when you call a prospective shipper is to send them your carrier package. If you don’t have one, the shipper most likely will not do business with you. If you send a poorly structured or outdated carrier package, the shipper probably won’t call you back and you might miss out on new business.
Putting together a proper and quality carrier package can be very time-consuming. Also, don’t forget that it needs to be updated every time something changes. It’s an ongoing time investment that is necessary to run a successful trucking business.
MKON introduces the Auto-generation of the Carrier Packages feature within InfoCenter. This free service is designed to simplify and streamline your business processes by removing the time investment required to put together a Carrier Package. With just a few clicks, you can generate comprehensive carrier packages automatically, saving valuable time and resources. This feature eliminates manual paperwork, increasing efficiency while reducing the potential for error.
Let MKON InfoCenter handle your carrier package generation, and focus more on driving your business forward.
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When tickets and violations happen, they severely impact your risk rating as a transportation company which in turn impacts what quality of cargo you can get in the market. It’s very important to understand why they happened and what needs to be done to avoid them ever happening again.
MKON offers expert Consultation Services for Tickets and Fines. We provide knowledgeable advice and guidance on how to manage traffic tickets and fines, helping you navigate these challenging situations. You can benefit from our expertise to understand your options and make informed decisions for your trucking business.
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Have you ever had to communicate with a government agency to get something done? It can be intimidating and confusing.
At MKON, we provide Guided Email Correspondence with Government and Regulatory Authorities. We help manage your professional interactions via email, ensuring clear, accurate, and timely communication with government bodies and other official institutions.
With MKON, you can navigate these critical conversations with ease and confidence.
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At MKON, we provide situational support with Direct Communication with Drivers for Support and Education. While we respect the internal dynamics of your company, there may be instances where our expertise can offer valuable insights to your drivers. In these cases, we can engage directly with them, offering support and education to ensure they are well informed and confident.
MKON’s goal is to help your business thrive by empowering all its members, from management to the drivers on the road.
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It’s tough to find the right partners that are trustworthy and provide great value and customer service, especially if you are new to the industry.
At MKON, we offer Strategic Partner Introductions Ensuring Quality and Value. We leverage our network to introduce you to reliable partners who deliver quality services, helping you maximize value for your investments.
Need insurance, fuel card, ELD, or tire rethreading? With MKON, gain access to partnerships that enhance your business's efficiency and profitability.
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At MKON, we understand that running a successful transportation company goes beyond compliance and operation. Thus, we offer situation Business Advice and Guidance.
While it may not be our primary focus, our team's broad expertise in finance and management allows us to provide valuable insights for your business growth and efficiency. Our guidance is aimed at helping you make informed decisions that can enhance your business's profitability and sustainability.
With MKON, you get more than just operational support; you get a partner committed to your overall business success.
Ongoing Renewals Support
It doesn’t end with the beginning. Running a logistics company requires ongoing work, and MKON can help with everything you need to run a successful trucking business. The following are required within the first one or two years of starting out.
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Renewing your corporation in Canada typically involves filing an annual report to your provincial or federal corporate registry. This process keeps your corporation active and in good standing. Information to be updated can include changes in addresses, directors, or officers.
MKON can help with your annual corporation renewal.
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Safety Fitness Certificate (SFC) renewal is essential for Canadian trucking companies. It verifies that a carrier meets safety standards, reflecting their commitment to road safety. Regular renewal maintains compliance and helps avoid penalties or business disruptions.
MKON can renew your SFC.
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Workers Compensation Board (WCB) renewal is vital for businesses, including trucking companies in Canada. It ensures continuous coverage for employees in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Regular renewal affirms an employer's responsibility for worker safety, aids in risk management, and maintains legal compliance. MKON can renew your WCB.
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Most Requested Services:
o Add a Vehicle (Truck)
o Remove a Vehicle (Truck)
o Changes to existing Vehicle (Truck)
Prorate renewal is essential to maintain seamless cross-border operations for commercial vehicles in Canada and the United States. It ensures your prorate registration, also known as the International Registration Plan (IRP), remains valid and active. Typically, renewals are done annually, with specific deadlines varying by jurisdiction. Timely renewal is crucial to avoid penalties, fines, or disruptions to your trucking operations. MKON is here to help you stay up to date with your Prorate requirements.
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o NSC Number
o Alberta Corporate Number
o MC Account Number
o MVID
o EIN Number
o SCAC Code
o Corporate GST #
o Prorate Account Number
o Carrier Code
o IFTA Account
o US DOT
o WCB
o Federal Corporate Number
o Insurance Certificate #
o IRS Number
o US Bond #
Other accounts are available to apply for. Please call us at (587) - 700 -9690
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Most Requested Services
o IFTA Filings
o IFTA Renewal
IFTA renewal and filing are crucial for commercial vehicle operators traveling across multiple jurisdictions. IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) simplifies fuel tax reporting, ensuring compliance and streamlined record-keeping. IFTA returns must be filed quarterly, with specific deadlines on the last day of January, April, July, and October. Timely filing is essential to avoid penalties, interest charges, or potential audits. Staying up-to-date with IFTA filings helps drivers remain compliant and maintain smooth operations. Let MKON be your trusted partner for IFTA renewal and filing, providing expert support and peace of mind for all your IFTA needs.
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The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) renewal is an annual requirement for interstate trucking businesses to maintain compliance and avoid penalties. It ensures your company's information is up-to-date and helps fund state motor carrier safety and enforcement programs. To renew, simply visit the official UCR website, provide the necessary information, and pay the associated fees based on your fleet size. Timely UCR renewal is essential to avoid fines and keep your operations running smoothly. Let MKON manage your UCR renewal and other regulatory requirements, so you can focus on your core business, knowing you're in full compliance.
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The USDOT number is a unique identifier for companies operating commercial vehicles in interstate commerce. It helps track safety information and ensures adherence to regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Regularly updating your USDOT information and renewing your registration every two years is crucial to maintain compliance and avoid penalties. Trust MKON to handle your USDOT registration and management so you can focus on growing your business with the confidence that you're meeting all regulatory requirements.
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The Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC) is a unique identifier assigned to transportation companies, facilitating efficient data exchange among carriers, shippers, and regulatory agencies. Obtaining and renewing your SCAC code annually is essential for seamless operations, particularly for businesses involved in customs transactions, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), and freight tracking. With MKON's expertise in managing SCAC codes and other regulatory requirements, you can concentrate on your core business operations while we ensure you remain compliant and well-prepared for smooth transaction
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Transponders are essential devices for trucking businesses, enabling seamless electronic toll collection and streamlining passage through toll plazas. Requesting and managing transponders for your fleet is a critical task to ensure uninterrupted travel and avoid unnecessary delays. MKON offers comprehensive transponder request and management services, allowing you to focus on your core business while we take care of the logistics, ensuring your fleet stays on the move and your operations run smoothly.
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Processing Advance Commercial Information (ACI), such as PARS (Pre-Arrival Review System) and PAPS (Pre-Arrival Processing System) orders, is vital for the efficient movement of goods across the Canadian and US borders. These systems enable customs clearance before the arrival of shipments, reducing wait times and ensuring smooth border crossings. MKON provides expert management of PARS and PAPS orders, allowing you to focus on your core trucking business while we handle the complexities of cross-border transactions, guaranteeing a streamlined experience for your company and clients.
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Obtaining specific permits for states like Oregon, New York, New Mexico, and Kentucky is crucial for trucking businesses operating within these jurisdictions. These permits help ensure compliance with weight, size, and route restrictions, allowing for seamless operations and avoiding costly fines or delays. At MKON, we specialize in acquiring and managing these specific permits for you, enabling you to concentrate on your core business activities.