How to Start a Trucking Company in Wisconsin
Everything you need to know about setting up and running a successful trucking business in Wisconsin.
Your Wisconsin Compliance Checklist
Register business with Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI)
Apply for Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS
Obtain Federal USDOT Number and MC Operating Authority
Secure mandatory federal filings: BOC-3 (Process Agents) & UCR Registration
Apply for Wisconsin DOT Intrastate Authority (Local Cartage)
Equipment-Specific Requirements
Depending on your truck's weight and where you drive, you may also need:
- IRP (Apportioned Plates) & IFTA (Fuel Tax)
- Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT/Form 2290)
- Driver Qualification Files (DQF)
Note: When you set up a free account, our system automatically determines exactly which of these steps are required for your specific operation.
Estimated Wisconsin Startup Costs
Business Formation
LLC, Reg Agent, & EIN Setup
$375
Federal Registrations
DOT & MC Authority Filings
$477.47
Compliance Permits
BOC-3 & UCR Filings
$226
WI Local Cartage
Intrastate Authority Fee
$500
*Other steps like IRP, IFTA, and HVUT vary based on your specific equipment type, gross vehicle weights, and service area.