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Starting a box truck delivery business: Amazon Relay, USDOT, MC and door lettering
Short answerA 26 foot box truck is over 10,001 lbs, so it needs a USDOT number and, for paid interstate freight, MC authority. Amazon Relay and most load boards require both plus $1,000,000 liability and $100,000 cargo. California adds the Motor Carrier Permit and CA number. Name and USDOT go on both doors.
The checklist, in order
- USDOT and MC authorityBoth through FMCSA. Authority activates about three weeks after insurance and BOC-3 are filed.
- Insurance to the platform standardAmazon Relay, Uber Freight and most brokers want $1,000,000 liability, $100,000 cargo, and often $1,000,000 auto.
- UCRAnnual registration by fleet size.
- California MCP and CA numberIf based in California, plus BIT enrollment.
- Driver requirementsMedical card, drug program and Clearinghouse. A 26,000 lb box truck doesn't need a CDL; a 26,001 lb one does, so check the rating.
- ELDRequired for most box truck operations outside the 150 air-mile short-haul exemption.
- Letter the truckName and USDOT on both doors before your first Relay load; their onboarding asks for a photo.
What goes on the truck
| Legal name | As registered |
|---|---|
| USDOT | USDOT 1234567 |
| MC (optional) | MC 123456 |
| CA number (California) | CA 123456 |
Both sides, contrasting color, readable from 50 feet in daylight. Two inch numbers is the standard; the rule is legibility, not a fixed height.
Related questions
Does Amazon Relay require lettering?
Relay requires an active USDOT and MC and asks for truck photos; the door markings are a federal requirement regardless.
Do I need a CDL for a 26 foot box truck?
Not if it's rated 26,000 lbs or less. Most are; some are 26,001 and need a Class B.
Checked September 2026 against FMCSA, California DMV, CHP, CSLB and BHGS requirements. A plain-English summary, not legal advice; fees and insurance minimums change, so confirm with the agency before filing.