Commercial truck insurance for owner-operators & fleets · Se habla español

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Trucking insurance questions, answered

Plain-English answers about coverage, filings and pricing for owner-operators and fleets. Still not sure? Call us — we’re happy to help.

General

Getting started

The questions we hear most from new and growing carriers.

Still have questions?

(301) 591-6550

What insurance do I need for a new trucking authority?

New authorities typically need Auto Liability ($750,000–$1,000,000) with the BMC-91X filing, plus Motor Truck Cargo if you haul freight for others. Many brokers also require General Liability and Physical Damage.

How much does commercial truck insurance cost?

Pricing depends on your radius, cargo, driving history, equipment value and years in business. We compare multiple carriers to find you a competitive rate — and quotes are always free.

Can you file my BMC-91X, MCS-90 and state filings?

Yes. Once your policy is bound, we coordinate the required federal and state filings with the carrier and send certificates of insurance to your brokers and shippers.

Do you insure owner-operators leased to a carrier?

Yes. We offer Non-Trucking (Bobtail) Liability, Physical Damage and Occupational Accident coverage for leased owner-operators.

How fast can I get a certificate of insurance?

Most certificates are issued the same business day. Just call or email us with the certificate holder’s details.

Coverage

Questions by coverage

Details about specific policies and requirements.

Still have questions?

(301) 591-6550

How much auto liability do I need for my new authority?

The federal minimum for most general freight is $750,000, but most brokers require $1,000,000. We usually recommend $1,000,000 so you can accept loads from more brokers.

Do you file the BMC-91X for me?

Yes. Once your policy is bound, we coordinate the BMC-91X with the carrier so your authority can become active, and we keep the filing current at renewal.

What affects the price of auto liability?

Your radius of operation, what you haul, driver experience and MVRs, the states you run in, years in business and loss history. We compare multiple carriers to find the best fit.

Does cargo insurance cover reefer breakdown?

Only if your policy includes a reefer breakdown endorsement. If you haul refrigerated freight, we make sure it is included and explain any deductibles.

How much cargo coverage do brokers require?

Most brokers ask for $100,000. Higher-value freight can require $250,000 or more — we can adjust limits as your lanes change.

What commodities are hard to insure?

High-theft and high-value goods like electronics, alcohol and pharmaceuticals. We work with carriers that specialize in these loads.

What is stated value?

It is the value you declare for your truck when the policy starts. In a total loss you are generally paid the lower of the stated value or the actual cash value, so it is important to set it accurately.

Is physical damage required?

Not by the FMCSA, but almost every lender and leasing company requires it. If your truck is paid off, it is still the only coverage that pays to fix your own equipment.

Can I add downtime coverage?

Many carriers offer downtime or rental reimbursement endorsements. Ask your agent — it helps keep income flowing while your truck is in the shop.

Isn’t general liability included in my truck policy?

No. Auto liability covers accidents arising from operating your truck. General liability covers other business activities and premises.

Why do shippers ask for general liability?

Because your drivers and equipment are on their property. Many contracts require a certificate naming them as additional insured.

What is the difference between workers’ comp and occupational accident?

Workers’ comp is a state-regulated coverage for employees. Occupational accident is a private policy, often for independent contractors, with set benefit limits.

Do I need workers’ comp as a one-truck owner-operator?

It depends on your state and whether you have employees. We help you understand the rules where you operate.

Is bobtail the same as non-trucking liability?

They are related but not identical. Non-trucking covers you when not under dispatch; bobtail covers driving without a trailer. We help you choose the right form for your lease.

Do I need this if I have my own authority?

No. If you run under your own authority, you need primary auto liability instead.

Talk to a trucking insurance specialist today

Call, email or visit our office in Frederick, Maryland. We work with trucking companies across the United States — hablamos español.