1 ton and car trailer to save money.

You will need motor carrier authority. That costs $300 for the filing fee if you do it yourself. A few years ago the feds changed the rules about getting your authority. You no longer need cargo insurance. You do need a minimum of $750,000 in auto liability. If you plan on finding loads from brokers or shippers to get back home, you will usually need a minimum of $1 million in auto liability and $100,000 in cargo. You will also need to file and pay your UCR and get a IFTA account. You will also need to purchase an apportioned base plate if you haul interstate. If you haul through New Mexico, Kentucky or New York, you will need their permits. If you are only going to haul your father in law's cars then you may get by without having to buy cargo insurance. Whether you need to enter scales will depend on how much weight you plan on putting on your cab card. Some states require all trucks enter the weigh station.

 

Hauling cars youll need $1, 000, 000 liability.

 

Oh they definently care, fines for getting cought can be large and if you happen to be involved in a fatal accident while over weight you get a 1 way pass to go see bubba. If you can not do it legally do not do it.

 

A pre-engineered product's spec's ALWAYS trump recommendations or registrations. Period. It (these days) always boils down to liability in the court of law and the court of compensation.

 

You need to make sure that you register your truck for the maximum you plan on hauling. Of course, you still don't want to exceed the maximum weight restrictions from the manufacturer. When in doubt, weigh. There are CAT scales all over the country. If you are uncertain about your weights then you should find a CAT scale and check your weight. In fact, it would probably be a good idea to check anyway, especially in the beginning. As long as you are hauling cars, it should be a non issue. If you put on 1 ton pick ups or larger SUV's you may want to weigh just for the peace of mind.

 

DOT go by axle /tire ratings, providing your not over your registered weight.

GVWR is to determine what class license you need.

 

Yup, that's the minimum