What Verdica's 807 score means for BALLARD INC
BALLARD INC's composite score of 807 out of 850 places it in the excellent band (800–850), indicating strong overall compliance performance across the three dimensions Verdica measures. A score at this level reflects a carrier that demonstrates consistent adherence to federal safety and operational standards, with minimal serious deficiencies in the areas tracked by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
For a business owner or shipper evaluating this carrier, an 807 score signals lower regulatory risk compared to the broader trucking population. This does not mean zero risk—no carrier scores a perfect 850—but it does mean BALLARD INC has cleared major compliance hurdles and maintains records that regulators view as acceptable to strong. The gap between 807 and the maximum (43 points) is modest, suggesting the carrier's weaker dimension is still in a respectable range rather than a red flag.
How the sub-scores break down
Authority & Insurance (850 / 850): This perfect score indicates BALLARD INC holds all required operating authority and maintains insurance coverage at or above federal minimums. In plain terms, the carrier is legally licensed to operate and carries sufficient liability coverage. This is a baseline requirement; a perfect score here simply confirms the carrier meets the entry-level regulatory gate.
Safety Record (815 / 850): This above-average score reflects BALLARD INC's history of accidents, safety violations, and driver conduct as tracked by the FMCSA. A score in this range suggests the carrier has experienced some safety incidents or violations but not at a rate that triggers regulatory intervention. Most carriers in the strong-to-excellent band will have minor blemishes in this dimension; a 815 is typical of responsible operators.
Inspection History (735 / 850): This is BALLARD INC's lowest sub-score, falling into the acceptable band (670–739). Inspection history captures the results of roadside inspections and compliance reviews—counts and severity of violations found during FMCSA spot-checks, vehicle out-of-service rates, and maintenance deficiencies. A 735 indicates the carrier has passed regulatory scrutiny but with room for improvement. This might reflect occasional vehicle maintenance issues, paperwork discrepancies, or minor driver-conduct violations uncovered during inspections.
What regulators in KY track for trucking providers
The FMCSA publishes BASIC (Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories) scores across seven safety dimensions: unsafe driving, fatigued driving, driver fitness, controlled substances/alcohol, vehicle maintenance, cargo-related violations, and hazardous materials compliance. These scores are built from roadside inspection data, crash reports, and audit findings.
In Kentucky, state regulators and federal safety officers conduct unannounced inspections at ports of entry, weigh stations, and during normal operations. Inspectors look for violations such as overweight loads, equipment defects, driver logbook falsification, brake failures, and tire violations. Each violation is recorded and weighted; repeat or serious violations degrade a carrier's BASIC and composite scores.
Carriers also undergo periodic audits if accident rates spike or if they cross certain violation thresholds. These compliance reviews examine driver hiring practices, vehicle maintenance schedules, and safety policies. A carrier's score improves through clean inspection records, zero or low accident rates, and timely corrective actions when violations are found.
Bottom line
BALLARD INC is a strong, low-risk option based on its 807 composite score and excellent authority and insurance standing. Before committing to a long-term relationship, cross-check current insurance validity, request references from existing shippers, and confirm the carrier's inspection history has not deteriorated since Verdica's last data pull. An 807 score is a green light, not a blank check—ongoing verification remains prudent.