Compared with ordinary commercial auto insurance, commercial trucking insurance needs to cover not just bigger risks, but a wider range of risks. The potential costs of damage to property and medical bills are higher simply because a truck can have a bigger impact in a collision. Meanwhile, you’ll also want coverage for potential loss of or damage to the cargo your trucking business transports.

The principles behind commercial trucking insurance policies are simple enough, but be prepared to answer a lot of questions about the type of people you have operating the trucks, the type of cargo they carry, and the expected mileage during the year. Your coverage needs could also change depending on whether you cross borders into other jurisdictions.

What types of trucks can be covered?

Commercial trucks such as tow trucks, tractor-trailers, garbage trucks, box trucks, flatbed trucks, and tank trucks should have specialized coverage.

What is covered by trucking insurance?

The coverage in your policy may vary, but a typical trucking insurance policy usually includes liability, physical damage, cargo, and uninsured/underinsured motorist liability.

There are a variety of factors that impact your coverage needs, as well as benefits from having different types of coverage options for your business. For example, discounts may be available based on factors such as your staff holding commercial driver’s licenses, or if your business is well-established. You might also want to check and see if your policy provides for government filings, which may be necessary to verify your coverage meets specified standards.