I set up an LLC in Houston a few months back, originally for consulting. I've been driving for a company for 6 years and want to use the same LLC to start my own trucking and logistics operation. Does anyone know if I can just add a DBA or do I need to file new paperwork with the Texas Secretary of State? Also, what's the deal with getting a USDOT number under the LLC? My main concern is the name being tied to consulting, but I want to keep the same entity to avoid starting over. Any advice appreciated.
Trucking
I want to use my Houston LLC for a trucking and logistics business
You can definitely use the same LLC. The Secretary of State doesn't care about your business purpose unless it's something regulated. Just make sure your assumed name certificate (DBA) is filed with Harris County if you're operating under a different name. For the USDOT, it's tied to the EIN, so as long as the LLC is the applicant, you're fine.
What FreightQueen said. But be ready for insurance to be a pain. They'll ask for the LLC docs and might question the consulting history. Just have your operating agreement and articles handy
If you're hauling interstate you need MC authority too, not just USDOT. That's a whole different process. FMCSA registration, BOC-3, insurance filings. Takes a few weeks.
Thanks. I'm planning mostly intrastate for now, Houston to Dallas, San Antonio, maybe Louisiana later. So MC might not be immediate. But I'll keep it in mind.
If you stay intrastate, Texas DOT has its own number requirement. You'll need a TxDMV number for commercial vehicles. Don't skip that. And check with the city of Houston for any local permits if you're parking the truck at your house.
Curious why you want to keep the consulting LLC name. If it's just you, maybe simpler to start a new LLC for trucking. But I get not wanting to pay the filing fee again.
i already have a business bank account and credit history under the LLC. Starting fresh means new accounts and no history. Plus I might still do some consulting on the side.
That makes sense. Just make sure your bank knows you're adding trucking. Some banks get weird if your depqosits suddenly change pattern. Also, get a separate accounting system for the trucking side so you can track costs per mile.
Have you looked into factoring? If you're new, cash flow will be tight. Factoring companies will want your LLC docs and DOT number. They don't care about the consulting part.
One thing nobody mentioned: if your LLC is registered as a consulting business with the state, you might need to file an amendment to add trucking as a business purpose. It's not always required, but some insurers and lenders want to see it.
I've never amended a purpose. The state doesn't enforce that. But yeah, for insurance it can help. Just list it as 'any lawful business' in your operating agreement.
Another thing: if you're using the same LLC, make sure your vehicle titles are in the LLC name, not your personal name. Otherwise the liability protection is weaker. And get a commercial auto policy, not just a rider on your personal.
How many trucks are you starting with? If it's just one, you might not ned a full logistics setup. But if you plan to broker loads, that's another layer of authority.
Just one truck for now, maybe two by next year. Not looking to broker. I'll check on the TxDMV number and the amendment. Appreciate the pointers.
One last thing: keep your consulting and trucking finances separate in your books even if same LLC. Commingling is the fastest way to lose liability protection if you eevr get sued.