Description
Mexican Carrier (MX) Number
A Mexican Carrier Number (MX Number) is an FMCSA operating authority issued by the FMCSA to identify Mexico-domiciled motor carriers that operate within the United States or transport freight across the U.S.–Mexico border.
This MX operating authority is required for Mexican carriers to legally conduct cross-border trucking operations, including commercial-zone and long-haul transportation services.
Need to Know
An MX Number Is Only One Part of the Required Registration
- An MX Number is not the only requirement for Mexico-domiciled motor carriers. They must also have a valid FMCSA Certificate of Registration for commercial-zone operations, or long-haul Provisional or Standard Operating Authority Registration, and a USDOT Number.
Difference between MC, MX, and FF Numbers
- MC Number: Issued by the FMCSA and allows carriers to legally transport freight or passengers in interstate commerce.
- MX Number: Required for carriers transporting goods between the United States and Mexico.
- FF Number: Assigned to freight forwarders that arrange shipments through licensed carriers.
You Need an MX Number Even for Short Trips Into the U.S.
- Mexico-domiciled motor carriers must have an MX number even if they only travel one or two miles into the United States. The requirement applies regardless of distance traveled, vehicle size, or how often the carrier crosses the border.
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- We Simplify Complex Federal Requirements
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Mexican Carrier (MX) Number?
A Mexican Carrier Number (MX Number) is an FMCSA operating authority issued to identify Mexico-domiciled motor carriers that operate within the United States or transport freight across the U.S.–Mexico border. This number is required for Mexican carriers to legally conduct cross-border trucking operations.
Do I need an MX number even for short trips into the U.S.?
Yes. Mexico-domiciled motor carriers must have an MX number even if they only travel one or two miles into the United States. The requirement applies regardless of distance traveled, vehicle size, or how often the carrier crosses the border.
What is the difference between an MC number and an MX number?
An MC number is issued by the FMCSA and allows carriers to legally transport freight or passengers in interstate commerce within the United States. An MX number is specifically required for Mexico-domiciled carriers transporting goods between the United States and Mexico.
Is an MX number the only thing I need to operate cross-border?
No. An MX Number is only one part of the required registration. Mexico-domiciled motor carriers must also have a valid FMCSA Certificate of Registration for commercial-zone operations or long-haul Provisional or Standard Operating Authority Registration, and a USDOT Number.
