BMC-84 Surety Bonds& BMC-85 Trusts
Guidance on BMC-84 bonds, BMC-85 trusts, renewals, and FMCSA financial responsibility compliance.
Freight Broker Financial Responsibility
Bonds and trusts
A BMC-84 surety bond provides financial security for payments owed to shippers or motor carriers when a broker fails to meet its covered transportation obligations. FMCSA requires property and household-goods brokers, and applicable freight forwarders, to maintain $75,000 in financial security through a BMC-84 bond or BMC-85 trust.
A BMC-85 is a trust arrangement with an eligible financial institution. It must hold $75,000 in qualifying assets; a trust administration fee is not a substitute for those assets. The provider files the appropriate bond or trust form with FMCSA.
The role of trust in transportation compliance
Compare the funding obligations as well as the fees. A BMC-85 commits qualifying assets to the trust, which can affect the funds available to run the business.
With a BMC-84, an approved applicant generally pays a premium rather than depositing the full bond amount. Underwriting may also require collateral. Review indemnity and reimbursement terms: paying a premium does not eliminate the broker's obligations for covered claims.
January 16, 2026 FMCSA changes
The 2026 rules tightened trust asset and provider standards. BMC-85 assets are limited to cash, irrevocable letters of credit from federally insured depository institutions, and U.S. Treasury bonds, and must be convertible to cash within seven calendar days. Loan and finance companies are no longer eligible BMC-85 trustees.
The rules also address provider reporting, financial failure and suspension when available security falls below $75,000. Respond promptly to any FMCSA notice and follow the current regulatory procedures. These changes did not replace the $75,000 security requirement.
Choosing the right provider
Bond and trust providers should be financially sound, responsive, and experienced with transportation claims and compliance.
Motive helps brokers and transportation businesses review available options. For a side-by-side comparison, read our BMC-84 bond vs. BMC-85 trust guide.
Reviewed November 10, 2026. Sources: FMCSA rule overview, FMCSA filing requirements, and current 49 CFR 387.307.
Coverage highlights
- BMC-84 surety bonds
- BMC-85 trust guidance
- Financial responsibility review
- Transportation compliance support
- Renewal and maintenance guidance
BMC-84 & Freight Broker Bond Questions
A BMC-84 is a surety bond used to satisfy federal financial security requirements for certain freight brokers and freight forwarders.
Freight brokers and applicable freight forwarders generally must maintain $75,000 in required financial security. Motive can help customers review their bond needs and available assistance while directing regulatory questions to the appropriate authority.
A BMC-84 is a surety bond issued by a qualified surety provider. A BMC-85 is a trust fund arrangement established through an eligible financial institution.
Both are methods of satisfying the applicable $75,000 federal financial security requirement, but their application processes, financial commitments, and obligations differ. Motive can help customers understand the distinction before choosing an appropriate provider.
With a BMC-84 surety bond, an approved applicant generally pays a bond premium rather than depositing the full $75,000 face amount. Premiums vary with underwriting and the applicant's financial profile.
A BMC-85 trust requires qualifying financial assets or security under its terms. Motive can help explain these differences so customers understand the potential upfront financial commitment.
A new brokerage may qualify for a BMC-84 surety bond, although approval, premium, and other terms depend on underwriting.
Financial history, credit factors, and business details may be considered. Motive can help new freight brokers understand the application information they may need and explore available bond assistance.
Explore our freight broker transportation resources.
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