MC Number Lookup
An MC number — short for motor carrier number — is the operating authority the FMCSA issues to for-hire carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders. An MC number lookup tells you whether a company is authorized to haul or broker regulated freight across state lines. Searchmule lets you look up any MC number for free and see the carrier’s full safety and authority record.
Free FMCSA carrier lookup — no account or signup required.
What Is an MC Number?
An MC number is FMCSA operating authority. For-hire carriers transporting federally regulated commodities in interstate commerce, freight brokers, and freight forwarders are all required to hold active authority under an MC, FF, or MX docket number. Authority can be granted, suspended, revoked, or reinstated — and a carrier hauling under revoked or pending authority is one of the most common freight fraud red flags. Checking MC authority status before booking a load is essential carrier vetting.
How to Look Up an MC Number
Enter the MC number in the search box above to open the carrier’s full profile, including its current authority status. Don’t have the MC number? Search by company name or USDOT number instead — Searchmule links all three identifiers together.
What an MC Number Lookup Shows You
- Operating authority status and authority history
- Whether the company holds carrier, broker, or freight-forwarder authority
- USDOT number and linked safety record
- FMCSA safety rating and BASIC scores
- Roadside inspection and violation history
- Crash records and insurance coverage on file
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an MC number lookup free on Searchmule?
Yes. Looking up an MC number and viewing the carrier’s full authority and safety record is completely free, with no signup required.
What does it mean if an MC number shows revoked or pending authority?
Revoked or pending authority means the carrier is not currently authorized to operate for-hire. Booking a load with a carrier whose authority is not active is a major fraud and liability risk — confirm Active status first.
Do all trucking companies have an MC number?
No. Private carriers and some exempt-commodity haulers operate with only a USDOT number and no MC number. For-hire carriers of regulated freight, brokers, and freight forwarders need operating authority.
Can I search by company name instead of MC number?
Yes. You can search by company name or USDOT number and Searchmule will return the matching carrier and its MC authority.