How to Get an Indiana Freight Broker Bond ($75,000)
- Mar 6
- 2 min read
If you want to operate legally as a freight broker or freight forwarder in Indiana, federal law requires you to secure a Freight Broker Bond, also known as a BMC‑84 bond. This $75,000 surety bond protects motor carriers and shippers by ensuring brokers follow FMCSA rules, pay carriers on time, and operate honestly in the transportation marketplace.
The bond is essential for both new brokers applying for a Motor Carrier (MC) number and existing brokers renewing their FMCSA authority each year.
Who Must Carry This Bond?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates the $75,000 bond for:
Freight brokers
Freight forwarders
Logistics providers acting as brokers
Any business arranging transportation for compensation
If your role involves matching shippers with carriers—not transporting goods yourself, you must carry a Freight Broker Bond before FMCSA will activate your authority.
How Much Does the Bond Cost?
You do not pay $75,000 upfront. Instead, you pay a yearly premium based on:
Personal or business credit
Experience in the logistics industry
Financial stability
Prior bonding history
Most qualified freight brokers pay a premium ranging from $750–$3,000 per year, depending on underwriting. High‑risk applicants may pay more, but many new brokers still qualify for competitive rates.
How to Get the Bond Quickly (Step‑by‑Step)
1. Provide Business & Ownership Information
Submit your business name, MC/DOT details (if available), ownership structure, and contact information. This ensures issuance of the correct FMCSA‑approved bond form.
2. Complete a Short Bond Application
A quick underwriting application gathers financial information and a personal/business background review. This usually takes only a few minutes.
3. Receive Your Premium Quote
A licensed bond agent reviews your application and provides a competitive quote. Most applicants are surprised at how affordable a Freight Broker Bond can be, even with the $75,000 requirement.
4. Purchase the Bond & Activate Your BMC‑84 Filing
Once payment is processed, your bond is issued and the surety electronically files Form BMC‑84 directly with FMCSA on your behalf. This filing is required before your authority becomes active.
5. Maintain Your Bond to Keep FMCSA Authority Active
FMCSA requires continuous bond coverage. Failure to renew the bond each year can result in:
Suspension of broker authority
Revocation of MC number
Loss of active operating status
Why Indiana Brokers Choose Wexford Insurance
Wexford Insurance is trusted by freight brokers across Indiana because they provide:
Fast approvals
Competitive BMC‑84 bond pricing
Simple applications
Knowledgeable support with FMCSA requirements
Their smooth process ensures your bond is filed quickly and correctly, helping you activate or maintain your operating authority without delays.
Get Your Bond Today
Start or renew your brokerage operations with confidence by securing your Bond today.
