DOT Help

I wish I could give you five stars for this question...... haha

 

Making money at the destination has no bearing on whether its commercial or not. FMCSA says it you are compensated, doesn't matter if you are paid before, after or during the job. If you are being compensated its more than likely commercial.

 

“Showcase a product”
Just curious if you’re trying to haul a mobile billboard?

 

That's what's going to matter to the DOT, because the rating determines what license type is needed. I can see a DOT officer having a field day with you if the trailer is plated for 10,001 or more pounds even though you are using well under its designed capacity and it has been modified etc, it stinks but that's just how they operate.

 

No you don't need a mc number and no you don't have to follow fmcsa guidelines you are not a for hire vehicle and you don't fall in the right axle classes

 

For hire is a term that doesn't mean much other than needing an mc or not. It's still a cmv and axles don't mean anything, it's gvwr that is what matters.
It's already been answered correctly, no need to spread false information after the fact.

 

He's half right. OP doesn't need MC, but that's it. Private carriers, and any company that uses a CMV for interstate commerce, for example a landscaper who does work in both NJ and PA who uses a ten wheel dump truck to tow a trailer with equipment on it need US DOT numbers and are subject to FMCSA regulations.