Think your USDOT number is a one-and-done deal? Think again.
If you’re in the trucking business—whether you run a fleet or drive solo—there’s one form you can’t afford to ignore: the MCS-150. Required by the FMCSA, this update isn’t just a formality—it’s the key to keeping your DOT number active and your operations legally compliant. Miss it, and you could face fines, deactivation, or worse.
As a motor carrier, it’s your responsibility to keep detailed mileage records and submit them accurately and on time. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about MCS-150 mileage reporting—from deadlines and filing methods to the potential consequences of inaccurate reporting, along with tips to help you stay compliant and protect your business.
What is the carrier mileage on MCS-150?
Carrier mileage refers to the total number of miles traveled by all commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) owned or operated by your company over the past 12 months. When completing the MCS-150 form, you’re required to report the combined annual mileage of your fleet, rounded to the nearest 10,000 miles. The FMCSA allows a slight margin of error, but your reported mileage should not differ by more than 10,000 miles from your actual total. That’s why it’s important to maintain detailed records and calculate your mileage carefully before submitting.
Mileage reporting on the MCS-150 is a key component of the FMCSA’s safety monitoring system. Accurate mileage reporting helps federal regulators assess your safety performance and regulatory compliance. It allows the agency to evaluate your safety risk and determine whether any oversight or intervention is needed.
In addition to reporting the number of vehicles in your fleet, you are required to report the distance these vehicles have traveled during the previous calendar year —this is referred to as the “mileage year.” So, if you’re filing or updating your MCS-150 in 2025, you’d typically report your fleet’s mileage from 2024.
Why is it important to report carrier mileage on MCS-150?
As stated earlier, mileage reporting on the MCS-150 form plays a major role in how the FMCSA monitors safety across the trucking industry. You’re required to report the total miles traveled by your commercial motor vehicles—including both power units and trailers—during the previous calendar year. This mileage becomes part of your FMCSA safety profile and can directly impact your safety rating, insurance premiums, and even your ability to operate.
Once your MCS-150 is filed, your reported mileage is factored into your Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) score—a number between 0 and 1.5, where lower scores indicate better safety performance. This score isn’t just a number; it reflects your company’s operational standards. It also determines whether the FMCSA flags your business for closer monitoring due to potential safety issues.
Accurate and timely mileage reporting on MCS-150 is essential. Keeping your MCS-150 form up to date—and making sure your mileage for the correct mileage year is accurate—shows that you’re staying compliant with FMCSA regulations. Failing to comply can lead to serious consequences, such as fines or even the deactivation of your USDOT number. That’s why it’s important to keep detailed mileage records and ensure your MCS-150 is up to date. That’s why maintaining detailed mileage records and regularly checking your MCS-150 status is critical to keeping your operations running smoothly.
All interstate motor carriers must submit the MCS-150 as part of their biennial update, even if there are no changes to report. Along with mileage, you must also verify or update information such as company ownership, contact details, and operational status.
When to report MCS-150 Mileage?
Staying compliant with FMCSA regulations means knowing exactly when to report your carrier mileage on the MCS-150 form. While the process might seem complicated at first, it comes down to keeping track of deadlines and maintaining accurate records.
Motor carriers are required to update their MCS-150 form every two years, even if there haven’t been any changes to their business. This biennial update must include your total mileage for the previous calendar year. Skipping or delaying this step can result in fines or worse, the suspension of your USDOT number.
The due date for your MCS-150 update depends on the last two digits of your USDOT number. The second-to-last digit tells you the month you need to file, while the last digit determines whether you file in an odd or even-numbered year. It’s a good idea to mark your calendar and double-check the FMCSA’s official schedule to avoid missing your deadline.
Check when your MCS-150 update is due.
To make mileage reporting easier and more accurate, many carriers rely on electronic logging devices (ELDs) that automatically track distance traveled in each state. For those who prefer manual tracking, a well-maintained logbook can also do the job—just make sure your records are clear, consistent, and up to date.
What happens if you report carrier mileage incorrectly on MCS-150?
Accurate mileage reporting on your MCS-150 form isn’t just a formality—it plays a critical role in how the FMCSA evaluates your business. Whether the mistake is intentional or accidental, incorrect mileage can lead to serious consequences and potentially put your operations at risk.
Underreporting your mileage may make it appear that your fleet is on the road less, which could suggest a lower exposure to risk. While this might sound harmless, the FMCSA sees it as a red flag. Discrepancies like this can trigger audits, closer scrutiny, and questions about your overall compliance.
On the other side, overreporting mileage may make your business look more active than it is. This could unfairly impact your CSA (Compliance, Safety, and Accountability) score, suggesting a higher operational risk. A lower CSA score can lead to increased inspections, added oversight, and even damage your credibility with brokers, clients, and insurers.
Beyond just affecting your safety profile, inaccurate mileage reporting—or missing your MCS-150 update altogether—can result in fines of up to $1,000 per day. In the worst cases, your USDOT number can be deactivated, effectively halting your ability to operate until the issue is resolved.
To stay in good standing, carriers need to keep clear and accurate mileage logs, report correctly during their biennial MCS-150 updates, and promptly update any changes in operations, ownership, or contact info.
How to report MCS-150 Mileage?
Time to update your MCS-150 mileage? Keep it simple.
There are a few ways to get it done; one of the recommended ways is to update it online through the FMCSA website. It’s quick, saves you the paperwork headache, and you can make changes right away without waiting around.
Another helpful resource is the Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System, which allows you to search your company details and access the MCS-150 update form directly. It’s a go-to tool for many carriers looking for a quick and user-friendly way to manage their information.
Prefer the fastest way to report your MCS-150 mileage? We suggest eMCS150.com. As a trusted MCS-150 filing service, eMCS-150 makes your mileage reporting faster, secure, and convenient. The experts are available 24*7 to walk you through every step, answer your questions, and ensure your form is filed accurately and on time.
File your MCS-150 update easily with our step-by-step guide!
No matter how you choose to file—whether it’s through FMCSA directly or with the help of eMCS150.com—the most important thing is to report your mileage accurately and on time. Keep detailed logs using manual records or electronic logging devices (ELDs), and make sure what you report matches your actual operations.
Best practices for MCS-150 Mileage reporting
Getting your MCS-150 mileage reporting right isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about building a solid, trustworthy profile with the FMCSA. Whether you manage a large fleet or operate as an owner-operator, following these best practices will help you stay compliant and avoid the headaches that come with inaccurate reporting.
1. Understand the MCS-150 Form:
Take the time to fully understand what MCS-150 covers. It’s more than just filling in numbers—it’s knowing how each section affects your business and staying informed about your reporting responsibilities.
2. Keep detailed, organized records:
Consistently track your mileage, including dates, routes, total miles driven, and which vehicles were used. The more detailed and organized your logs are, the easier it will be to report accurate mileage when the time comes.
3. Leverage technology:
Manual logs can lead to errors and guesswork. Use electronic logging devices (ELDs) or automated mileage tracking software to capture reliable, precise data effortlessly. These tools significantly reduce mistakes and simplify your recordkeeping.
4. Audit your records regularly:
Don’t wait until the last minute to find mistakes. Schedule routine audits by cross-checking odometer readings against driver logs and fuel receipts. Spot-checking your data helps catch and fix errors before you file.
5. Report on time, every time:
Remember, your MCS-150 update is due every two years—even if nothing has changed in your operations. Late or missed filings can result in fines or even suspension of your USDOT number. Set calendar reminders to stay on top of deadlines.
6. Double-check before you submit:
Simple errors can create big problems. Be sure to review your mileage carefully to avoid double-counting or missing certain routes or vehicles. Carefully review your records to ensure accuracy before submitting. It might seem minor, but those numbers directly impact your FMCSA profile and CSA score.
7. Leverage professional support:
Sometimes the smartest choice is to get expert help. eMCS-150 offers professional MCS-150 filing service and knowledgeable agents who can guide you through the process, ensuring your mileage reporting is accurate and your MCS-150 updates are submitted smoothly. This support can save you time, reduce stress, and help keep your business in good standing.
File MCS-150 online with eMCS-150
Timely and accurate reporting of your MCS-150 mileage is essential for every carrier, though the process can sometimes be tricky to navigate. Whether you’re an owner-operator or an exempt-for-hire motor carrier, knowing when and how to submit your mileage is vital to avoid penalties and stay in line with DOT regulations.
Keeping your MCS-150 form current is a crucial part of running a seamless and successful trucking operation. If managing paperwork and deadlines ever feels overwhelming, eMCS-150.com is here to simplify things for you. The user-friendly platform ensures secure processing, instant confirmation, and friendly support whenever you need it. With eMCS-150 handling your compliance, you can concentrate on what matters most—keeping your business moving forward.
