Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to complete the Questionnaire?
The best way to access and complete the NCFO questionnaire is on the Internet. You can access the web questionnaire from the NCFO homepage: www.bts.gov/ncfo.
I have lost/misplaced my access code or I need additional logins
If you have lost or misplaced your ferry operation’s Internet Questionnaire access code or need your account reactivated, please call the NCFO project manager at (202) 875-4799 or email us at Ferry@dot.gov.
When completing the Internet Questionnaire, can I log-in more than once?
You may log-in two times within two weeks. If you need a third log-in attempt or to log-in again after two weeks have passed, you will need to contact BTS at Ferry@dot.gov or call (202) 875-4799. We will reactivate your account, and you will again have two log-in attempts within two weeks. BTS will re-activate your account as many times as you need. We recommend reviewing the questionnaire content and having all your data ready before logging in. After the final deadline, you will no longer be able to access your ferry operation’s questionnaire.
How do I get my copy of the Questionnaire?
You can complete your questionnaire on the Internet by visiting the NCFO homepage: www.bts.gov/ncfo and entering the unique log-in credentials mailed to your ferry operation. If you do not want to complete the questionnaire on the Internet, you can choose to print a copy of the questionnaire from the homepage and mail to our staff once completed. Alternatively, we can send you a paper questionnaire and a return envelope for your convenience. For this, please contact us at (202) 875-4799 or at Ferry@dot.gov.
Why do I have to complete the Questionnaire?
The National Census of Ferry Operators is the data collection source for the only comprehensive ferry database. Without your response, the ferry database is not complete and cannot tell the full story about ferries and their importance within the U.S. transportation system. Additionally, if you are a publicly owned or operated ferry operator, you must complete the NCFO to be eligible to receive Federal-aid highway funds: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/specialfunding/fbp/
How quickly must I complete the questionnaire?
You should respond to the questionnaire within 60 days. The specific deadline will appear on the letter that you receive in the mail with your operation’s questionnaire log-in details. This deadline will also be posted on the NCFO homepage: www.bts.gov/ncfo
I cannot use the Internet to complete the census. Is there any other option for completing the census?
Completing the questionnaire on the Internet is the easiest and fastest way to complete your census; however, if you cannot complete the questionnaire online you can access the paper version on the NCFO homepage: www.bts.gov/ncfo. When you have completed your paper questionnaire, please mail to the address shown on the last page of the questionnaire.
If I complete a paper questionnaire, where can I send it when complete?
Please send your completed questionnaire to:
NCFO Project Manager
Bureau of Transportation Statistics, RTS10
1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20590
What do I do if I no longer operate a ferry or have received the Questionnaire in error?
If you are receiving a letter to respond to the census and you are no longer servicing a ferry operation or have never serviced a ferry operation, please contact us at (202) 875-4799 or Ferry@dot.gov
Why am I receiving calls from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) about the NCFO?
The NCFO is conducted by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). BTS is a sub-agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation. More information on the BTS can be found on our website: www.bts.gov.
Can I edit the data after my Internet Questionnaire has been submitted?
You may edit your questionnaire, but the same log-in rules apply. If it has been more than two weeks since you submitted or you already logged in twice, you will need to contact BTS at Ferry@dot.gov or (202) 875-4799 to reactivate your account. If the edits are minor, you may also email us the edits, and we can make them. Do not email us anything you consider business sensitive. After the final deadline, you will no longer be able to access your ferry operation’s questionnaire.
The person whom the Questionnaire is addressed to is not able to respond. Can I respond on their behalf?
Yes, anyone within the specified ferry operation can respond to the questionnaire. Within the questionnaire, you will be asked to respond to the question, “Survey Respondent” which is where you can identify yourself as the person completing the questionnaire. If there is more than one person assisting with the completing of the questionnaire you can document more than one name if you wish to.
Who do I call to receive assistance to complete my questionnaire?
We are more than happy to assist you with completing your questionnaire. Please contact us at (202) 875-4799 or at Ferry@dot.gov with any questions you may have.
What happens if I do not respond to the Questionnaire?
The Questionnaire is voluntary. We very much appreciate your time and response to this important data collection. If you cannot respond there is no penalty. However, if you are a publicly owned or operated ferry operator, you must respond to the NCFO to be eligible to receive Federal-aid highway funds: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/specialfunding/fbp/.
What if I have another question?
For all other questions, please contact the NCFO project manager at (202) 875-4799 or email Ferry@dot.gov