01 / Identity and ownership
Confirm the legal entity, state good standing, ownership, seller authority, formation documents, and the proposed equity or asset purchase structure.
02 / FMCSA and safety records
Review SAFER and Licensing & Insurance records, authority status, inspections, crashes, out-of-service information, enforcement matters, and any pending applications. Confirm current reporting requirements directly with FMCSA.
03 / Liabilities and financials
Review tax filings, financial statements, debts, UCC filings, liens, claims, litigation, employee obligations, and related-party transactions. A purchase of an entity can include historical liabilities.
04 / Insurance and operating access
Obtain an insurer review of the proposed ownership and operations. Check loss runs, required filings, and any coverage gaps. Obtain written confirmation of contract and platform requirements instead of assuming approvals transfer.
05 / Purchase and closing
Document the assets or ownership interests, price, fees, representations, due diligence, conditions, deposit arrangements, and closing steps. Independently verify payment instructions. Use qualified closing and escrow professionals where appropriate.
06 / After closing
Complete applicable ownership and officer updates, state filings, insurance arrangements, banking changes, and other required notifications. Do not operate until all applicable requirements are met.
Official reference: FMCSA guidance on USDOT identities and business transactions. Check current requirements before acting.
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