Washington Freight Broker Bond

If you’re operating as a freight broker in Washington, it’s important to understand the freight broker bond requirement. Keep in mind that this is primarily a federal requirement enforced by the FMCSA, not a state-specific rule. Washington simply follows these federal regulations, so brokers must comply to legally operate.

Although it stems from federal law, Washington freight brokers must secure this bond to legally broker shipments within the state. The bond provides protection to carriers and shippers operating in Washington, ensuring brokers meet their financial commitments. Compliance with the freight broker bond also officially registers the broker with the FMCSA, allowing them to operate legally both in Washington and nationwide.

Freight brokers operating in Washington must comply with federal FMCSA regulations, which require a $75,000 BMC-84 surety bond to protect carriers and shippers. To meet federal requirements, brokers typically must:

• Register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
• Secure a surety bond valued at $75,000 (BMC-84)
• Submit licensing documentation to the Washington Department of Licensing
• Ensure financial statements and business information are accurate

For further details on federal license and permit requirements, refer to the SBA’s official business guidance portal.

Freight brokers operating in Washington primarily follow federal FMCSA regulations, including the $75,000 BMC-84 bond and registration requirements. While Washington does not impose additional bonding rules, brokers must ensure their business is compliant with state-level administrative requirements, such as:

• Slightly modified registration processes
• Specific renewal notifications and timeframes
• Required documentation submissions tied to Washington’s regulatory environment

Broker eligibility and licensing standards, however, remain generally consistent with national frameworks.

Bond costs in Washington fluctuate based on personal credit score, business financial history, and choice of surety provider. Premiums for a $75,000 bond typically range between 1% and 5% of the total bonded amount. For most brokers, this means annual costs may fall between $750 and $3,750. Excellent credit usually results in lower premiums, while applicants with weaker credit may face higher costs.

Examples:

• Brokers with strong credit may pay around $750 annually
• Those with moderate credit ratings may pay close to $1,500 to $2,250
• For brokers with poor credit, premiums may be higher than $3,750

Securing a freight broker bond in Washington involves a stepwise process. Prospective brokers should gather required documentation and select a reputable surety bond provider to facilitate approval.

Application Steps:

• Register with FMCSA and obtain an MC number
• Prepare and submit financial statements and application forms
• Choose a reliable surety company through a surety bond online application 
• Review all licensing and bonding paperwork for accuracy

Selecting a surety company with proven experience can improve approval chances and help ensure compliance. 

Brokers with low credit scores can still obtain a Washington freight broker bond, though their bond premiums will generally be higher, typically ranging from 5%–15% of the $75,000 bond. Surety providers may offer specialized programs for applicants facing credit challenges, assessing overall business character, and evaluating supplemental documentation.

Tips to improve approval chances:

• Submit complete and accurate documentation
• Work with providers experienced in low-credit bonding
• Consider building business credit before application

Bonding programs for lower credit scores exist and can enable brokers to operate while addressing credit obstacles. Applicants may benefit from proactive steps to demonstrate business stability and reliability.

Washington freight broker bonds must be renewed annually to maintain licensing and compliance. Renewal notification is typically issued by the surety provider prior to expiration, ensuring brokers have ample time to review and update their paperwork.

Renewal Steps:

• Monitor bond expiration dates and renewal notifications
• Resubmit required documentation for bond renewal
• Maintain ongoing business compliance as required by FMCSA and state authorities

The renewal process in Washington emphasizes straightforward procedures and proactive alerting, making compliance easy to maintain for active brokers.

The following FAQs address common compliance, claims, validity, cancellation, and transfer concerns for freight brokerage operations in Washington. These summaries clarify procedures, timeframes, and obligations based on federal FMCSA rules.

What happens if a claim is filed against my bond?

If a legitimate claim is filed against a Washington freight broker bond—such as failure to pay carriers or honor contract terms—the surety company conducts an investigation before compensating the claimant up to the bond’s total amount. The broker must reimburse the surety company for any payment made to fulfill the claim. Unresolved claims may result in cancellation or suspension of operating authority, as the bond functions to protect shippers and carriers from financial harm.

How long are the Washington Freight Broker Bonds valid?

Washington freight broker bonds are valid for one year and must be renewed annually to maintain uninterrupted operating authority and compliance. The surety provider will send notifications ahead of expiration, allowing the broker sufficient time to update and resubmit necessary documentation. Failing to renew results in the loss of authority and licensure until the bond is reinstated.

What happens if I cancel my Washington Freight Broker Bond?

Canceling a Washington freight broker bond notifies regulatory authorities and triggers the termination of brokerage authority after a mandatory 30-day notice period. During this window, the bond technically remains in force, and any claims arising before or within the notice period may still be processed. Cancellation without replacement results in loss of operating status and potential legal exposure if contractual obligations are unfulfilled.

Can I transfer my bond if I move my brokerage out of Washington?

Surety bonds are state-specific and cannot be directly transferred from Washington to another state. If relocating, a broker must obtain a new bond that meets the requirements of the destination state. Certain documentation from the previous bond provider may assist with the application process, but compliance depends on satisfying the legal and financial criteria of the new jurisdiction. Carriers should initiate the bonding process promptly to avoid any lapse in licensure and operational authority.

U.S. Small Business Administration. (2025). Apply for licenses and permits. 
https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/launch-your-business/apply-licenses-permits.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. (n.d.). FMCSA regulations for freight brokers. Retrieved from
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). Surety bond quote. Retrieved from
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/surety-bond-quote