Companies that operate commercial automobiles hauling cargo or transporting passengers in interstate commerce should be registered with the FMCSA as well as have a USDOT number. Also, commercial intrastate perilous materials carriers who transport quantities and types needing a safety license must enrol for a USDOT number. This number serves as an exceptional identifier when gathering and monitoring business; safety information obtained during audits, inspections, crash investigations, and compliance reviews. Due to the hectic schedule business owners have, they find it hard to maintain their DOT number, the reason they choose to work with permitting services. A good permitting service files all the necessary forms to help you get started, and maintain or update your current licenses and fillings. However, with permitting services being as many as they are, choosing a suitable one daunts. Here are points to help you select a good permitting service.
First of all, check the types of licenses a permitting service provides. You should only include in your list full-service permitting services. This implies that they provide renewal, amendment, and expiration of current permits, and applications for new permits. This will assure you that you can depend on the permitting service for the entire vital licensing services you require to remain legal.
The second element you should be keen on is the permitting service’s experience. You do not intend to work with a permitting service that doesn’t know the details required when renewing or applying for a new permit. Instead, you need a permitting service that’s going to handle all your permitting needs within a short period. This makes it vital that you get an expert for your permitting needs. To be sure your permitting service is professional; make sure you look at how long it has been offering permitting services. In addition, look at the list of the clients the permitting service has served earlier. You can get these details on the website of a permitting service or by asking for them at the office.
Another element to be keen on when choosing a permitting service is the location. You could be considering permitting services that are far away; however, this may not be commendable. With a nearby permitting service, you can easily access its local customers who will help you choose the best permitting service. Additionally, you can interview the individuals handling the permitting process to ensure they are abreast of your licensing needs.
Last but not least, look at the cost. You yearn for a permitting service that’ll competently handle your permitting needs; however, the hard economic times also make the budget a factor to consider. Thus, you shouldn’t select a permitting service without checking its price. Do not just settle for a permitting service because of its attractive rates as they might not adequately cater to your needs. This doesn’t indicate expensive permitting services are the best; some charge more not for the superiority of their services but to earn more. Before comparing the prices of permitting services, ensure they meet the above criteria to ensure there are no compromises on service quality.