Trucking & Freight Government Contracts
Government trucking contracts move freight for military logistics, USPS surface transportation, disaster response, and state highway operations (haul routes, aggregate delivery, snow operations). Authority and safety compliance dominate: an active USDOT/MC number, satisfactory safety rating, and adequate cargo insurance are entry requirements before any proposal content matters.
Common requirements in trucking and freight contracts
- Active USDOT and MC operating authority with satisfactory FMCSA safety rating
- Cargo insurance (often $100K+) and auto liability ($1M typical)
- Driver qualification files, CDLs, and drug/alcohol testing program
- ELD compliance and hours-of-service management
- TWIC cards or installation access credentials for secure facilities
- Equipment specifications (trailer types, capacity, age limits on some contracts)
Documents you'll need ready
- FMCSA authority documentation and safety rating
- Certificates of insurance meeting solicitation minimums
- Equipment list with truck/trailer counts and specs
- Active SAM.gov registration under the matching 484xxx NAICS
- Driver roster summary and safety program description
- Rate schedule per the solicitation format (per-mile, per-load, hourly)
Proposal checklist
- Verify your authority class and insurance meet the solicitation minimums exactly
- Price deadhead and accessorials realistically into rates
- Document surge capacity — government freight often spikes
- Address driver vetting for base/facility access requirements
- Show on-time performance metrics from existing operations
- Confirm ELD and safety compliance status (CSA scores)
Who buys trucking & freight
Responding to a trucking & freight RFP right now?
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Frequently asked questions
How do I start hauling government freight?
Register in SAM.gov under your 484xxx NAICS, then look at USPS surface transportation contracts, state DOT hauling, and FEMA transportation registrations. Many carriers also start as subcontractors for incumbent government freight primes.
What insurance do government trucking contracts require?
Typically $1M auto liability and $100K cargo at minimum; hazmat or specialized freight requires more. Solicitation minimums are hard requirements — certificates are checked before award.
Do owner-operators qualify as small businesses?
Yes. Trucking NAICS size standards are revenue-based (around $34-44M), so nearly all independent carriers qualify for small business set-asides.