Understanding Florida’s Vehicle Enforcement: What Automobile Shipping Companies Must Know

The automobile shipping industry plays a vital role in Florida’s economy. Car transport companies help businesses, dealers, and individuals move vehicles safely. However, they must follow strict state and federal regulations.

The Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) oversees commercial vehicle operations in Florida. This agency ensures automobile shipping services meet legal and safety standards. This blog explains CVE’s role and key compliance rules for auto transport service providers.

What Is Florida’s Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE)?

The CVE, a division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), regulates commercial vehicle operations. The agency enforces weight limits, licensing, and safety requirements.

Automobile shipping companies must follow state and federal regulations under CVE oversight. The agency conducts safety assessments, inspects transport vehicles, and educates businesses about compliance.

Violating these regulations can result in fines or operational restrictions. Every automobile transport business must understand CVE rules to operate legally and efficiently.

Essential Rules for Vehicle Transporters

Florida-based automobile shipping companies must follow strict regulations. CVE enforces several key compliance rules that transporters must follow.

1. Vehicle Inspections and Safety Compliance

CVE conducts random roadside inspections to check vehicle compliance. Transporters must inspect their trucks and trailers before shipments. Inspections include:

• Brake and tire conditions.
• Proper lighting and signals.
• Secure tie-downs and weight distribution.
• Functional emergency equipment.

Regular maintenance and pre-trip checks help prevent shipment delays.

2. Licensing and Registration Requirements

Transport companies must obtain the required licenses and permits before shipping vehicles in Florida. CVE mandates that operators have:

• A Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) MC number.
• A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
• Vehicle registration with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).

3. Weight Limits and Load Securement

Automobile transporters must follow state weight limits. Overloading leads to fines and safety risks. Florida weight limits depend on:

• The transport vehicle type.
• The number of trailer axles.
• Road and bridge weight restrictions.

Proper load securement prevents accidents. Transporters must:

• Use strong straps, chains, and wheel chocks.
• Ensure vehicles remain stable during transport.
• Verify load security before departure.

4. Hours-of-Service (HOS) Rules

Driver fatigue causes many transport accidents. CVE enforces Hours-of-Service (HOS) rules to limit driving hours. The rules state:

• A driver can operate for 11 hours after a 10-hour rest.
• A 30-minute break is required after 8 consecutive driving hours.
• Drivers cannot exceed 60 hours in a 7-day period.

These rules prevent exhaustion-related accidents and improve road safety.

5. Insurance and Liability Requirements

Automobile shipping companies must carry adequate insurance. FMCSA requires at least $750,000 in liability coverage, though high-value vehicle transporters may need more.

CVE enforces insurance regulations to protect businesses and customers. Companies without proper coverage face severe penalties.

6. Roadside Inspections and Weigh Stations

Transporters must stop at designated inspection points and weigh stations. CVE officials check:

• Permits, logs, and insurance proof.
• Vehicle weight compliance.
• Safety and maintenance records.

Ignoring weigh station rules results in fines, citations, or operational shutdowns.

Why Compliance Matters for Automobile Shipping Companies

Following CVE regulations helps automobile shipping companies succeed. Compliance provides several key benefits:

1. Avoids Legal Penalties

Companies that violate regulations face fines, lawsuits, and possible business shutdowns. Adhering to the law ensures smooth operations.

2. Builds Reputation and Customer Trust

Customers prefer automobile shipping companies that follow safety regulations. Compliance builds credibility and attracts more business.

3. Reduces Accident Risks

CVE rules keep transport vehicles in top condition. Proper maintenance reduces breakdowns and prevents accidents.

4. Prevents Delays and Service Interruptions

Non-compliance leads to shipment delays, penalties, and lost business. Following regulations ensures uninterrupted operations.

How Automobile Shipping Companies Can Maintain Compliance

To meet CVE requirements, transporters should:

• Conduct regular vehicle inspections.
• Keep all permits and registrations up to date.
• Train drivers on Hours-of-Service (HOS) rules.
• Maintain proper insurance coverage.
• Stop at all weigh stations for inspections.
• Stay updated on CVE and FMCSA regulations.

Following these steps ensures legal operations and high safety standards for auto transport services.

Conclusion

CVE regulates automobile shipping companies in Florida, ensuring safe and legal transport. Compliance with licensing, weight limits, driver qualifications, and safety inspections keeps operations running smoothly.

Every automobile shipping company must follow these rules to build a strong reputation, maintain safety, and avoid legal issues. Staying informed about CVE enforcement helps transporters operate efficiently while protecting Florida’s roadways.

By prioritizing compliance, automobile shipping companies can grow their business while providing excellent customer service and reliable auto shipping.