A process agent isn’t just a name on a form. They play an important role in a company by ensuring that all its activities follow the rules and regulations. 

Agents serve as designated individuals authorized to process legal documents and file BOC-3 forms for their clients. Apart from being registered and recognized by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), agents should also show trustworthiness by following certain guidelines. 

Here are some tips on how to wisely choose a process agent. 

Their certification needs to be verified

Before choosing the agent, ensure that they are authorized to file a BOC-3 form and listed in the FMCSA database. Agents are also required to be in the U.S. and have a physical address. In addition, they need to be listed as a blanket process agent.

An agent’s legitimacy can be proven by other factors, such as reliability, strong communication skills and discretion. Remember that an agent should be in good standing with FMCSA. 

Ensure that the agent has full nationwide coverage

The agent you choose should have representation in all fifty states of America. This is to make sure you’re covered anywhere in the country.

Having nationwide coverage means that agents have the absolute right to receive and process legal documents on behalf of applicants coming from a particular state. You might also hear them referred to as Blanket Agents, All-State agents or Nationwide Process agents — this means they process cases throughout the U.S. 

Search for agents who do their job fast

Time is gold. It’s an irreplaceable asset. Therefore, choose providers who can file the BOC-3 form immediately or the same day. This way your MC can activate faster. Not only do agents need to accept legal documents immediately, but they also need to dispatch them to clients at once. Speeding up this process will reassure clients in your professionalism and credibility. 

Always verify if there are additional services that the agent provides

Some process agents also specialize in regulatory advisory, UCR registration or biennial updates. In addition, they can help you provide guidance on insurance coverage and prepare for compliance reviews. 

Another important consultation that a process agent can provide is explaining how roadside inspections can be managed and dealt with. 

All these extra services can save you a lot of time. 

Good reputation

Good reputation is the perception that people hold of an individual. This quality is almost required in any aspect of life. Reputation means trust, integrity, honor and stature. All these virtues are required for a BOC-3 agent, too. A professional process agent should be knowledgeable and responsive. Practicing transparency is a must for a process agent. 

Companies with high star ratings and reviews get more business because people trust a brand or person with a good reputation more.

Therefore, our advice is to always look for reviews and referrals when you hire a process agent.