━━ Trucking glossary
Plain-English trucking definitions.
Every acronym a small carrier or owner-operator runs into — ELD, HOS, IFTA, DVIR, BOL, POD, CSA. Written without the consultant fluff.
- Electronic Logging DeviceELD
An FMCSA-mandated device that automatically records a commercial driver's Hours of Service (HOS) by plugging into the truck's engine bus.
- Hours of ServiceHOS
FMCSA rules limiting how many hours a commercial driver can drive and be on duty before mandatory rest.
- International Fuel Tax AgreementIFTA
A tax agreement between the 48 contiguous US states and 10 Canadian provinces that simplifies fuel tax reporting for interstate motor carriers.
- Driver Vehicle Inspection ReportDVIR
A required pre-trip and post-trip inspection report a commercial driver fills out documenting the vehicle's condition.
- Bill of LadingBOL
A legal document between a shipper and carrier listing the type, quantity, and destination of goods being transported.
- Proof of DeliveryPOD
A document signed by the receiver confirming the load was delivered. Required to bill the broker or shipper.
- Compliance, Safety, AccountabilityCSA
FMCSA's safety scoring program for motor carriers and drivers, based on roadside inspections and crash data.
- FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse
FMCSA's federal database tracking commercial driver drug and alcohol program violations.
- Driver Qualification FileDQ File
A federally-required file containing every document needed to prove a CDL driver is legally qualified to operate.
- Motor Vehicle RecordMVR
A driver's official driving history pulled from the state DMV — required at hire and annually thereafter.
- USDOT Number
A unique federal identifier issued by FMCSA to commercial motor carriers operating in interstate commerce.
- Motor Carrier NumberMC Number
FMCSA-issued operating authority allowing a for-hire carrier or broker to transport regulated commodities or arrange transportation in interstate commerce.
- Rate Confirmation
The contract document brokers send to carriers confirming the load details and the agreed rate.