For ag retailers, moving products such as fertilizers, crop protection products, and other regulated materials is a routine part of doing business. But with that responsibility comes a range of federal transportation requirements that can’t be overlooked. One of the most important is maintaining an active U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Hazardous Materials Registration. Failure to register—or allowing a registration to lapse—can expose an operation to costly penalties, compliance issues, and disruptions during inspections or audits. As the new registration cycle approaches, now is the time to verify your status and ensure your documentation is current.
What to Do
If your company transports, or offers for transport, hazardous materials that require placarding by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), they must be registered with the DOT. If your company registers with DOT annually, then your HazMat Registration expires on June 30th each year. The 2026-2027 registration year covers the period between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027. If your company registers for a two or three year period, check your registration for the expiration year.
The annual fee for small businesses and not-for-profit organizations is still $250 per year plus a $25 processing fee while the fee for all others remains $2,575 per year plus a $25 processing fee. A copy of the current registration must be carried in every company vehicle used to transport hazardous materials. Past copies of the certificate of registration must be kept for three years at the office. You can register and pay the fee online at the DOT’s website.