What documents do brokers need to set up a carrier?

Most brokers need your W-9, a certificate of insurance listing them as holder, a signed carrier agreement, and — if you factor — a notice of assignment.

How do I get set up with a broker fast?

Send a complete packet in one email and confirm your insurance meets their minimum. Being complete on the first try is the fastest path to active.

Free template · 5 min read

Carrier–Broker Setup Packet Template

Brokers set up carriers dozens of times a week. Having a clean, complete packet ready makes you look established and gets you booked faster. Copy the structure below into your own document.

What every setup packet should include

Company legal name, DBA, and physical address
USDOT and MC numbers
W-9 with matching legal name and EIN
Certificate of insurance with correct coverage and the broker as certificate holder
Notice of assignment if you use a factoring company
Signed carrier packet / broker-carrier agreement
Preferred contact name, phone, and dispatch email

Copy-ready cover note

Subject: Carrier Setup — [Company Name] (MC [number]) Hi [Broker Name], Thanks for the load opportunity. Attached is our complete setup packet: - W-9 - Certificate of Insurance (please confirm coverage meets your requirement) - Notice of Assignment (factoring) - Signed carrier agreement USDOT: [number] | MC: [number] Equipment: [dry van / reefer / flatbed], [count] truck(s) Preferred lanes: [lanes] Please let me know if anything else is needed to get us active. We're ready to book. Thanks, [Your Name] — [Company Name] [Phone] | [Email]

Why this matters for a new authority

A missing W-9 or an insurance certificate with the wrong holder can delay a load for hours. A ready-to-send packet removes that friction and signals you run a real operation.

Frequently asked questions

What documents do brokers need to set up a carrier?: Most brokers need your W-9, a certificate of insurance listing them as holder, a signed carrier agreement, and — if you factor — a notice of assignment.
How do I get set up with a broker fast?: Send a complete packet in one email and confirm your insurance meets their minimum. Being complete on the first try is the fastest path to active.

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