Trucking Glossary for Small Fleets
The terms that show up in broker packets, roadside inspections, and audit requests — defined the way a one-truck authority actually needs them, with the compliance consequences spelled out.
Where can I look up trucking and compliance terms?
This glossary defines the terms small carriers hit most often: COI (certificate of insurance), straight truck and box truck dimensions, DTC fault codes, DVIR, IFTA, CSA score, and MC number. Each entry covers the definition, a real example, and what it means for a fleet under 20 trucks.
Last verified by ELD Hub.
All terms
- COI (Certificate of Insurance)
A one-page proof-of-insurance document brokers and shippers require before they tender a load.
- Straight truck
A truck where the cab and cargo box sit on one frame, instead of a separate tractor and trailer.
- Box truck dimensions
Interior length, width, height, and payload capacity for the standard commercial box truck sizes.
- DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code)
The standardized fault code a truck's engine computer sets when a system reports a problem.
- DVIR (Driver Vehicle Inspection Report)
The report a driver files documenting vehicle defects found during a pre-trip or post-trip inspection.
- IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement)
The agreement that lets interstate carriers file one quarterly fuel-tax return covering all member jurisdictions.
- CSA score
The FMCSA safety rating built from your roadside inspection and crash history over 24 months.
- MC number
The FMCSA operating authority that lets a carrier haul regulated freight for hire across state lines.
Go deeper
- What is an ELD →
The device, the rule, and the cost.
- Hours of Service rules →
The four clocks explained.
- DOT compliance checklist →
Every recurring obligation.
- Start a trucking company →
Authority, filings, and costs.
Compliance for 1–20 trucks: $15/truck/month
FMCSA-registered ELD with HOS, DVIRs, IFTA, and GPS included. No contract, no setup fee.