Georgia Freight Broker Bond (BMC-84)

What Is the Georgia Freight Broker Bond (BMC-84)?

The freight broker bond is a federal requirement under 49 U.S.C. §13906, set at $75,000 by MAP-21. Georgia's significance as a logistics hub — anchored by the Port of Savannah (one of the busiest in the U.S.) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport — makes it a major domicile for freight brokers serving Southeast and national distribution networks.

The BMC-84 bond is filed with FMCSA and protects motor carriers and shippers from:

• Non-payment of carriers after freight is delivered
• Misrepresentation of freight or contractual terms
• Violation of FMCSA brokerage rules

FMCSA will immediately suspend MC authority if the bond lapses for any reason, even briefly.

Who Needs This Bond in Georgia?

• Property freight brokers arranging interstate transportation of general freight into, out of, or through Georgia.
• Household goods freight brokers — same $75,000 FMCSA requirement.
• Surface freight forwarders — same $75,000 FMCSA requirement.
• Port drayage and intermodal brokers coordinating container moves out of Savannah or Brunswick must also comply with FMCSA authority and bond requirements.

How to Get Bonded — Step by Step

1. Obtain FMCSA MC authority by filing Form OP-1 at FMCSA.dot.gov.
2. Apply for the BMC-84 bond on this page. Underwriting reviews personal credit and business information.
3. Pay premium and the surety files the bond with FMCSA electronically (7–10 business days to go active).
4. File BOC-3 process agent designations in Georgia and all operating states.
5. Complete UCR registration and any state-specific filings before beginning operations.

Renewal & Continuous Bond Coverage

The BMC-84 bond is continuous with no set expiration date. Annual premium is billed by the surety. Cancellation requires 30 days' written notice to FMCSA — and automatic suspension follows on the 30th day if not replaced. Stay ahead of renewal notices to avoid losing Georgia MC authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Georgia have a state-level freight broker bond separate from FMCSA?

No. Georgia does not require a separate state freight broker bond. The $75,000 FMCSA BMC-84 bond is the only bond requirement for interstate freight brokers domiciled in or operating through Georgia.

Is the bond amount higher because of the Port of Savannah's volume?

No. The $75,000 amount is a federal uniform amount that applies equally to all freight brokers regardless of volume, state, or port proximity.

BMC-84 vs. BMC-85 — which should I choose?

BMC-84 (surety bond) requires annual premium but preserves your capital. BMC-85 (trust fund) requires depositing the full $75,000 in cash. For most brokers, BMC-84 is the practical choice.

How long does FMCSA activation take after the bond is filed?

After the surety electronically files the BMC-84, allow 7–10 business days for FMCSA to reflect the bond as active in SAFER. New MC authority applications also have their own processing timeline on top of this.

Related: All Georgia surety bonds · What is a surety bond? · How surety bond costs are calculated