Lifestyle

Best Commercial Truck Insurance Brokers

Finding the best commercial truck insurance brokers can be a tricky task.

Before you go ahead and sign a policy with the first insurance provider you come across, make sure you understand what options are out there. Different commercial insurance plans can vary significantly in both cost and coverage. Your truck is your business’s most important asset, so you must protect it adequately.

This guide explores some of the best brokers to consider to help you find the right insurance company to match your commercial trucking needs.

How To Choose The Best Commercial Truck Insurance Brokers

There are many different commercial truck insurance companies- each offering its unique policies, pros, and cons.

Choosing the right commercial truck insurance company is one of the most important decisions when setting up your trucking business. Your insurance provider can majorly impact your business’s financial security and overall operations.

To help you make an informed choice, here are some crucial steps and considerations to consider when choosing between commercial truck insurance companies.

Assess Your Needs

Understand your business’s unique commercial trucking insurance needs. Factors like the type of trucks you have, the cargo you transport, the routes you take, and your safety record all play a role in the kind of commercial auto insurance you choose.

Research Reputation

Always look for commercial truck insurance companies with a solid reputation in the industry.

Read online reviews, ask for recommendations from other trucking businesses, and check the broker’s history of claims handling and customer service. Getting first-hand feedback from their clients is incredibly valuable when choosing a commercial truck insurance policy.

Expertise

Choose a broker with experience in the commercial trucking industry. Truck insurance can be complex, so working with a broker who understands the specific challenges and regulations of the trucking industry is essential.

Coverage Options

Understand the range of coverage options the commercial trucking broker offers. They should be able to customize policies to meet your unique needs, business size, and motor truck cargo.

This means small owner-operators or trucking companies operating a large fleet can find a suitable commercial truck insurance policy.

Compare Quotes

Getting quotes from multiple brokers to compare their commercial truck insurance premiums and coverage is always a good idea.

This will give you a clear picture of the market rates and help you identify unusually high or low quotes. It will also help you understand which commercial auto insurance policy offers the best coverage.

Claims Handling Process

Ask about the broker’s claims handling process. You want to look for a broker that offers smooth and efficient claims processing. The easier and faster it is to make claims, the more value you could get from the commercial insurance provider.

Transparency

The commercial truck insurance provider should be transparent about the terms and conditions of their policies. Avoid brokers who seem evasive or hesitant to provide clear information. Make sure you understand every detail of the insurance costs, terms, and coverage that they offer.

Additional Services

Some brokers offer extra services like risk management advice, safety training resources, and compliance support. These value-added services can be valuable for your trucking business.

You’ll also want to understand the full range of coverage options the broker offers. Beyond simply insuring your vehicle, look for business insurance, general liability, non-trucking liability coverage, cargo insurance, medical costs, rental reimbursement, and more. There are many different elements that your commercial truck insurance policy can cover.

8 Best Commercial Truck Insurance Brokers To Consider

Now that you know what to look for in a commercial truck insurance broker, it’s time to compare different companies. Here are some of the best commercial truck insurance brokers to consider.

Progressive Commercial

Progressive Commercial is a big name in the insurance industry, offering a range of commercial insurance options. Additionally, Progressive vehicle insurance provides comprehensive coverage for commercial trucks, including plans for trucking businesses of all sizes.

Nationwide

Nationwide provides all kinds of insurance plans – including coverage for commercial trucks. The company has a strong presence in the insurance market and offers flexible plans to match your specific needs.

Allstate

Allstate offers tailored commercial truck insurance solutions. The company provides detailed coverage solutions, helping protect your vehicle and business. This includes collision coverage, liability coverage, comprehensive coverage, and more.

OOIDA

Owner Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) offers affordable coverage for small business owners. The association provides a full range of coverage options tailored to individual truck drivers’ needs.

Aon

Aon is a global company that offers a range of insurance products – including commercial truck insurance. Their policies are flexible to match your specific business needs.

CoverWallet

CoverWallet is technically not an insurance company – it’s an online insurance aggregator tool. However, comparing commercial trucking insurance options is beneficial to find the best broker for your needs.

Evolution Insurance Brokers

Evolution Insurance Brokers offers comprehensive coverage for truckers. Their commercial trucking insurance policies are designed to meet the needs of truckers and businesses of all sizes – including short and long-haul trucking insurance.

The Hartford

The Hartford is a well-respected and long-standing trucking insurance provider. This commercial trucking insurance company is ideal for large fleets, offering nationwide comprehensive coverage options. The company also offers multiple discounts, making the commercial truck insurance cost worthwhile.

Conclusion

These are some of the best commercial truck insurance companies out there. However, the broker and insurance policy you choose should come down to your specific business requirements. Always compare policies and providers to find a solution that matches your business needs perfectly.

Commercial truck insurance is an essential step in buying a semi-truck. You’ll also need to get the proper funding. If you’re interested in purchasing a new vehicle, then get in touch with us at Mission Financial, where we can help you gain the financing you’re after.

What To Expect From A Job As A Commercial Truck Driver

Are you interested in becoming a commercial truck driver? It can be a fantastic career path for the right person.

Being a truck driver involves much more than just sitting behind the wheel on a highway. You’ll need to manage many different responsibilities and skills on each delivery route you drive. No two days as a commercial truck driver are the same.

If you’re wondering what to expect in a truck-driving job, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.

Commercial Truck Driver Responsibilities

Being a truck driver is a dynamic and challenging job with various functions. While no two truck drivers’ jobs are the same, here are some primary responsibilities you can expect as a commercial truck driver.

Driving Long Hours

Of course, the main thing you can expect as a truck driver is spending long hours driving your semi-truck. Depending on the type of trucking you do, this could involve driving across states, or even across countries. However, you could also do shorter local routes.

As a long-haul commercial truck driver, you can expect irregular work schedules and possibly overnight trips or extended stays away from home. Being a truck driver is all about traveling long distances and spending the bulk of your working hours behind the wheel.

Safety Responsibilities

Safety is a top priority in commercial truck driving. You will be responsible for the safe operation of your vehicle, which involves maintaining a safe speed, following traffic laws, and being alert to potential hazards on the road.

You’ll also need to ensure you keep your cargo safe – as this is why you’re driving your trucking route in the first place. Depending on the type of cargo you’re carrying, you may need special skills and qualifications to manage it.

Vehicle Inspections

Beyond just driving a truck, commercial truck drivers also need to make sure their trucks are in good condition and adhere to federal regulations. As your vehicle is vital to your job, you must spend plenty of time keeping it running well.

Before and after each trip, you’ll need to thoroughly inspect your truck, checking for any mechanical issues, leaks, or other problems that could affect its safety or performance. This means commercial truck drivers need to have a good understanding of the different parts of their truck and how their truck works.

Maintaining a Delivery Schedule

The whole reason that commercial truck drivers are on the roads is to ensure their cargo is delivered to the right place on time. This means commercial truck driving involves managing delivery schedules and working within tight time frames.

As a commercial truck driver, you must know how to plan your routes and drive efficiently to keep your deliveries on schedule.

Paperwork and Records

Everything you do as a commercial truck driver needs to be recorded. This is important for the smooth operation of your trucking business and for any legal reasons – like making a commercial insurance claim.

As a truck driver, you’ll be responsible for maintaining accurate records, including logbooks, mileage reports, and delivery receipts. This documentation helps with compliance. It also makes it easier to get paid.

Maintain the Right Licensing and Training

To become a commercial truck driver, you’ll need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) specific to the type of commercial vehicle you’ll be operating. The specific process and training in getting your commercial driver’s license can differ from state to state.

You must also have relevant qualifications and licenses to carry certain goods. Some types of dangerous cargo require additional training.

CDL drivers also need to ensure they stay updated with the laws and regulations around commercial trucking wherever they operate. These laws can often differ as you pass state borders, so ensure you understand what is required of you in each route you drive.

Various Job Opportunities

Commercial truck driving could look very different for each commercial motor vehicle driver. This depends on the type of trucking you do.

For example, you could get into long-haul trucking, local delivery, or specialized freight transportation. Each job type is unique, with its responsibilities, challenges, and opportunities.

Luckily, the demand for goods transport keeps the trucking industry relatively stable. This means you should have good job security as a reliable driver.

Commercial Truck Driver Skills

To become a commercial truck driver, you must match the right skills for the job. Here are some of the most essential skills you should possess:

Physical Stamina: Truck driving can be physically demanding, as you may be required to load and unload cargo, handle paperwork, and spend extended periods sitting and driving. Make sure you’re up for the challenge.

Independence: While you may have a dispatcher or supervisor to guide you, commercial truck driving involves plenty of independence. You’ll be responsible for making decisions on the road and completing your deliveries. You’ll also be alone for long periods.
Time and Stress Management: Commercial truck drivers manage tight schedules. You must also know how to keep calm in emergencies or stressful driving conditions.
Communication: Even though you spend long periods alone, you must also deal with multiple people in the supply chain. You’ll need to show good communication skills to everyone involved in your delivery schedule and other drivers. This is essential for smooth trucking operations.

Conclusion

Being a commercial truck driver is full of challenges. It’s also an exciting career path for people with the right skills and motivation.

If you’re considering becoming a commercial truck driver, then it’s essential to understand everything involved in the role before you start training for your licenses.

You may also need to purchase your semi-truck to start a trucking business. Mission Financial makes it easy for any commercial truck driver to gain financing for buying a vehicle. Get in touch with us to see how easy the application process is.

Should You Become A Semi Truck Driver? (Pros and Cons)

Driving a commercial semi-truck can be a fantastic career for the right people. It lets you be your own boss, work independently, explore the country, and work in an industry with plenty of demand. However, driving a semi-truck also comes with its challenges.

While most people can pick up the skills and knowledge required for being a semi-truck driver, there are certain personality traits you’ll need to have to be successful in this industry. This guide explores some of the main requirements of being a semi-truck driver, including the pros and cons of this career path.

What Does a Semi-Truck Driver Do?

A semi-truck driver is a professional truck driver responsible for operating large commercial vehicles called semi-trucks. This typically involves transporting goods long distances and requires a specialized commercial driving license (CDL).

While that definition of a semi-truck driver is incredibly straightforward, a lot goes into driving and handling semi-truck deliveries.

Being a professional truck driver involves much more than having good driving skills and a basic understanding of commercial vehicle mechanics. Drivers play a vital role in the supply chain of many different industries, and they need to have a range of skills to help them remain successful on long trips.

Let’s list some of these commercial truck drivers’ main tasks and responsibilities.

Driving and Navigation

The primary responsibility of a semi-truck driver is to drive the semi-truck, or tractor-trailer, between goods. This is to transport goods from one place to the next.

Driving a semi-truck is challenging and involves navigating various terrains, highways, and urban areas. You’ll need to adhere to all local traffic laws and safety regulations. You’ll also need to understand the goods you’re hauling and ensure you drive safely so as not to damage these goods.

Loading and Unloading

Sometimes, semi-truck drivers may be responsible for loading and unloading cargo onto the trailer. However, at many shipping and receiving points, some specialized workers handle these tasks.

Whatever the case, truck drivers must have a solid understanding of the cargo they’re carrying and how to handle it. If the truck driver is responsible for handling the cargo, then they’ll need to have the right cargo handling equipment available.

Inspecting the Vehicle

Before starting a journey, the driver must perform pre-trip inspections to ensure the semi-truck works properly. This includes checking the brakes, tires, lights, and other essential components.

Being a semi-truck driver means you have a great deal of responsibility for managing an expensive vehicle.

Truck drivers should have a good basic knowledge of how their vehicle works and what the different components of the vehicle do. This will help you identify issues like bad shocks or a bad starter before they become serious problems.

Planning Routes

Drivers must plan their routes efficiently to reach their destination on time while considering road conditions, traffic, and weather.

The more experienced you are as a commercial driver, the better you’ll get at planning routes efficiently. While you can use GPS systems to help with this process, having plenty of experience driving the same routes enables you to make smarter decisions.

Of course, you’ll need to ensure that any route you take suits the size of your commercial truck.

Maintaining Records

Semi-truck drivers must keep accurate records of their driving hours, mileage, fuel consumption, and any incidents during their trips. This documentation is crucial for regulatory compliance and employer records.

For example, you might have to deal with a semi-truck accident or any unplanned incident on the road. Dealing with commercial insurance companies will require detailed records of the incident.

Following Regulations

Driving a semi-truck is different from driving a regular car. Truck drivers must adhere to various regulations, including hours of service rules, which dictate how long they can drive and when they need to take rest breaks to prevent fatigue.

This is all covered when you take your commercial driving license test. However, you must stay current with regulations in each state, as driving laws can differ from place to place.

Communication

Communication is vital for truck drivers. They need to stay in touch with dispatchers, shipping and receiving personnel, and their employers to provide updates on their progress and any potential issues.

Driving a truck is not just about moving goods from place to place – it’s about being a vital part of the supply chain. Many depend on semi-truck drivers to make timely deliveries, so keeping everyone updated is essential.

Safety and Security

Semi-truck drivers need to prioritize safety on the road. This means ensuring their cargo is secure and properly loaded to prevent accidents and damage during transit. It also means driving safely and considering all other road users.

Routine Maintenance

You can only be a semi-truck driver if you have excellent time management skills. Long-haul trucking often involves tight delivery schedules, so effective time management is crucial for meeting deadlines and customer expectations.

You’ll also need to keep calm under pressure, as you never know what could happen on the road that shortens your delivery schedule.

Time Management

You can’t be a semi-truck driver if you don;lt have great time management skills. Long-haul trucking often involves tight delivery schedules, so effective time management is crucial for meeting deadlines and customer expectations.

You’ll also need to be able to keep calm under pressure, as you never know what could happen on the road that shortens your delivery schedule.

Pros of Being a Semi-Truck Driver

Being a semi-truck driver may not be easy, but it’s a rewarding career for the right people. Here are some of the main advantages of becoming a semi-truck driver.

Job Stability

The trucking industry plays a crucial role in transporting goods across the country, so there’s always plenty of demand for truck drivers.

As long as you have proven yourself as a reliable semi-truck driver, work should always be available. This means truck driving can provide excellent job stability and security. The demand for truck drivers is continually growing.

Earning Potential

There’s no cap on what a semi-truck driver can earn. Experienced truck drivers who manage busy delivery schedules can earn a great income. Long-haul truck drivers could earn more due to longer distances and higher mileage pay.

There are also many different types of semi-truck businesses you could run. Once you’ve bought a semi-truck and have some experience in the logistics industry, many doors open up for career opportunities.

Independence

You’ll often work independently as a truck driver, spending long hours on the road without constant supervision. While this isn’t everyone’s ideal work environment, many people love it.

Being a semi-truck driver is an excellent solution if you want to be your own boss, work independently, and not worry about annoying coworkers or office politics.

Travel Opportunities

Forget about sitting behind a desk all day – being a semi-truck driver means you could travel all over the country.

Truck driving allows you to travel to different places and experience diverse landscapes and cultures all the time. No two days are the same, so it’s a great career path for anyone with a sense of adventure.

Quick Entry

Compared to many other professions, becoming a truck driver requires less time for training and certification.

You only need the correct commercial driving license to start hauling your first delivery. Of course, buying a truck and building up a client base may take a bit longer, but with the right approach, getting started as a truck driver can be much quicker than in many other industries. Instead of qualifications, hands-on experience matters the most.

Cons of Being a Semi-Truck Driver

While driving semi-trucks can be a fantastic career path, it also comes with challenges. Here are some main reasons that put people off becoming semi-truck drivers.

Extended Hours and Time Away

The biggest con of becoming a semi-truck driver is spending extended periods on the road.

The long hours spent truck driving can lead to fatigue and reduced time with family and friends. Long-haul drivers need to spend extended periods away from home, which can quickly result in burnout.

However, there are options for semi-truck drivers to run shorter routes to avoid extended time away from home.

Health and Safety Risks

Driving a truck involves spending long hours sitting still in a chair. If you can’t exercise enough or eat healthy meals, this could cause some health concerns.

Commercial truck driving can also be hazardous, with many potential risks from accidents, adverse weather conditions, and other road users. If you aren’t prepared for all driving conditions or start getting tired behind the wheel, you face severe safety hazards.

Isolation and Loneliness

Spending extended periods alone on the road can make semi-truck drivers feel isolated and lonely. If you’re a particularly social person, driving a semi-truck might not be for you – especially if you plan long-haul trips.

Regulations and Stress

Truck drivers must adhere to strict regulations concerning driving hours, rest breaks, and cargo transportation. Violating these regulations can lead to fines or legal consequences.

Truck drivers who aren’t good at managing their schedules could be tempted to overlook specific regulations that could put them in danger.

How to Become a Semi-Truck Driver

Becoming a semi-truck driver is a fairly straightforward process. While the exact steps may look slightly different based on the type of truck you drive, where you operate, and what you plan to carry, here is a general outline of the process:

Basic requirements: First, you must be at least 18 or 21 years old for interstate driving. You’ll need a clean driving record and might have to pass a background check and drug screening.
Get a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): To operate a semi-truck, you’ll need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). You’ll first need to get a CDL learner’s permit, then enroll in a CDL training program at truck driving school. After completing the CDL skills test, you can obtain your license. The exact process and rules for getting these licenses can differ from state to state.
Gain experience: Most trucking companies require some driving experience before hiring new drivers. You’ll start in entry-level positions, like local delivery or short-haul routes, to gain experience.
Consider endorsements: Endorsements extend the possibilities of your CDL and truck driving career. Consider obtaining extra endorsements on your CDL to expand your job opportunities, such as HazMat (Hazardous Materials), Tanker, and Doubles/Triples.
Apply for jobs: Being a semi-truck driver involves spending plenty of time applying for truck driving jobs that match your qualifications and preferences. Understand the different types of trucking jobs, such as long-haul, regional, and local routes, and consider specializing in a specific area.

The more experience you build up as a professional truck driver, the easier it will be to take on more jobs, start a semi-truck business, and make more money.

Conclusion

There are many different avenues potential truck drivers can follow. This includes driving short local routes or hauling goods across the country.

Whatever type of semi-truck business you get involved in, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of being a driver and exactly what is required in driving professionally. Becoming a truck driver can be highly rewarding if you can work with the cons of this career.

One of the most important steps in developing your semi-truck career is owning your semi-truck. This can help you become your own boss and start working on your own terms.

At Mission Financial Services, we help all kinds of drivers secure financing for their ideal semi-truck. Get in touch to see how we can help boost your professional driving career.

What State Has The Cheapest Commercial Truck Insurance 2023

We went digging to figure out what state has the cheapest commercial truck insurance in 2023 and noticed a few things:

Each state sets its minimum commercial truck insurance law requirements based on different factors affecting the insurance rates offered per state.

Insurance providers use different criteria to determine their truck insurance premiums. But there are a few steps you can take to find an insurance provider with the cheapest commercial truck insurance rates.

Read on for our findings on the state with the most affordable truck insurance. We’ll also share how to find cheap truck insurance to help you save money.

What State Has The Cheapest Commercial Truck Insurance

From our findings, the state with the cheapest commercial truck insurance is Mississippi.
In Mississippi, commercial truck insurance costs about $3,552 per year for local commercial truck drivers or owner-operators. If you operate across states, Mississippi’s average insurance cost increases to nearly $4,664 per year.

Still, it’s cheaper than in other states. Local trucking entrepreneurs in California pay around $11,834 per year, while interstate owner-operators pay approximately $14,041.

Meaning local and interstate owner-operators in Mississippi save about $8282 and $9377 in premium costs per year, respectively, compared to their counterparts in California.

This shows you can save tens of thousands of dollars in insurance premium costs by operating from states with affordable insurance costs.

Here is a summary of the top 5 states with the cheapest commercial truck insurance rates and the most expensive states for you to see the cost difference.

Top 5 States With The Cheapest Commercial Truck Insurance Costs

1. Mississippi

Average local truck insurance rates: $3, 552
Average national truck insurance rates: $4,664

2. Wyoming

Average local truck insurance rates: $4.927
Average national truck insurance rates: $7,149

3. Massachusetts

Average local truck insurance: $5,447
Average national truck insurance rates: $17,017

4. Iowa

Average local truck insurance: $5,615
Average national truck insurance rates: $8,866

5. Arizona

Average local truck insurance: $6,102
Average national truck insurance rates: $11,797

Top 5 States with the Most Expensive Commercial Truck Insurance Costs

1. New Jersey

Average local truck insurance rates: $20,763
Average national truck insurance rates: $20,255

2. Louisiana

Average local truck insurance rates: $19,736
Average national truck insurance rates: $23,453

3. Delaware

Average local truck insurance rates: $17,351
Average national truck insurance rates: $19,670

4. New York

Average local truck insurance rates: $16,949
Average national truck insurance rates: $17,585

5. Connecticut

Average local truck insurance rates: $16,946
Average national truck insurance rates: $17,004

From these comparisons, you can quickly tell the states to avoid, especially if you’re a new commercial truck driver looking to start your trucking business. Remember that these are the average insurance costs.

In Mississippi, the top state with the lowest insurance rates, the amount you’ll pay depends on two major factors:

State minimum requirements
How much coverage you get

What are the State Requirements of Commercial Truck Insurance in Mississippi?

Mississippi state law requires owner-operators to get minimum liability insurance premiums based on the type of freight they carry and where they carry it.

For example, owner-operators working within the state, that carry household goods must have a minimum of $300,000 commercial trucking insurance. While there is a $1,000,000 minimum for oil transport.

The requirements might be more extensive if you’re an owner-operator working interstate. You’ll have to meet the above and comply with other commercial auto insurance requirements by the federal government.

Check out the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)’s insurance policy requirements for commercial trucks to understand which commercial truck insurance applies to you.

Mississippi State Minimums Amounts Payable by Insurers

Mississippi state law sets the minimum amount insurance companies must pay as compensation when trucking accidents occur. All auto insurance policies in the state must have a 25/50/25 minimum liability coverage limit. This means paying a minimum of:

$25,000 bodily injury liability for each person injured during trucking accidents involving your commercial trucks
$50,000 in bodily injury liability per trucking accident, and
$25,000 property damage liability

For adequate protection, it’s advisable to go for an insurance policy with higher coverage limits. Also, consider going for different types of truck insurance coverage suitable to your trucking business to cushion yourself from various costly claims.

What Insurance Coverage Options Does Mississippi Offer?

Primary Liability Insurance Coverage

Primary liability coverage is the most basic commercial trucking insurance required by all federal and state laws. It combines two different types of commercial trucking insurance into one – property damage liability and bodily injury liability.

Physical Damage Insurance

Physical damage insurance is comprehensive. It includes collision coverage, which pays for commercial truck repairs in case of collision damage, and coverage for damages from other incidents, such as vandalism. It’s essential liability insurance to have, although it’s not legally required, like primary liability coverage.

Non-trucking Liability Coverage

Non-trucking liability coverage protects your commercial truck if it causes injuries or damages property when out on personal or non-work-related errands. It’s different from personal auto insurance, which is insurance coverage for personal or non-commercial vehicles.

Cargo Insurance

Cargo insurance coverage compensates when the goods you haul get lost or damaged in transit. FMCSA does not require a motor carrier to have this type of semi-truck insurance. However, most for-hire interstate commercial trucking companies require autonomous truck drivers to purchase cargo insurance before hiring trucks.

Overall, each commercial trucking insurance option comes with its cost, and how much coverage you choose affects your total insurance cost. A trucker who gets a commercial truck insurance policy offering primary liability coverage will pay less than another who chooses more coverage options.

How To Find Cheap Truck Insurance

It’s unlikely that two trucking companies will pay the exact insurance costs even if they both operate in the same state and choose the same coverage options.

Different insurance companies consider various factors when setting their rates. A trucking business with high credit scores and experienced drivers with clean driving records will qualify for cheap trucking insurance from multiple insurance companies. In contrast, a similar trucking business with inexperienced truck drivers and low credit won’t.

To find cheap truck insurance, compare quotes from different insurance companies. Get help from a licensed insurance agent. Qualified insurance agents can help you identify the best insurance providers following your business needs and the type of contracts you plan to get.

Most licensed insurance agents are also aware of ongoing offers and discounts and can help you get the lowest insurance costs possible.

You can find the best commercial truck insurance agents close to you by doing a quick Google search and typing in your state and city. You’ll get a list of recommendations to start with. Ensure you read reviews of insurance agents that stand out to settle on the best one.

Conclusion

Commercial truck insurance takes different forms in different states, but if too costly it might affect your profit margins.

We’ve answered the question: What state has the cheapest commercial truck insurance? We’ve also shown you how to find the most affordable trucking insurance provider.

But remember, the cheapest state may not always be the best state for truckers. There’s a difference between the two. To learn more about this, head over to the Mission Financial Services blog.

Is Cheap Semi-Truck Insurance Worth It?

Looking to get cheap semi-truck insurance but unsure whether it’s worth it? The answer depends on the value the commercial truck policy offers and how well it suits your trucking insurance needs.

Cheap commercial truck insurance might be worthwhile if it provides all the protection your trucking business requires and remains reasonably priced.

To find affordable commercial truck insurance for your trucking business, examine the following:

Average commercial truck insurance cost
Type of coverage required
Rating factors for determining commercial trucking insurance cost

Also, there are a few things you can do to get high-quality trucking insurance at reduced rates.

How Much Truck Does Commercial Insurance Cost?

Commercial truck insurance costs about $736 monthly for specialty truckers and around $1,125 monthly for transport truckers. That’s approximately $8,832 and $13,500 annually for top commercial insurance companies.

Other insurance companies set their national average monthly cost lower–between $250 and $450. If you’re a leased owner-operator, expect to pay around $3000 to $5000 annually to insure your tractor-trailer and about $1600 for your truck driver.

If you’re an owner-operator with your own authority, you’ll pay more (about $9000 and $12,000 annually). For owner-operators who are a new authority, insurance cost increases further to nearly $16,000 annually.

Cheap semi-truck insurance falls on the lower end of the estimated average prices. However, the exact amount you’ll pay varies based on the type of coverage you need and the rating factors for different insurance companies.

What Type Of Commercial Trucking Insurance Coverage Do You Need?

Commercial truck insurance covers costs of injury, property damage, and other losses from accidents involving your truck. There are different types of trucking insurance coverage options to help pay for these costs and more, including:

Primary Liability

Primary liability coverage pays for an injured party’s medical bills resulting from an accident caused by one of your truck drivers.

The insurance company also covers all the repair costs for damages incurred on the injured party’s vehicle. But it won’t cover your driver’s medical bills or your truck’s damages. For this, you’ll require additional coverage, like physical damage.

Insurance cost for primary liability coverage ranges from $5000 to $7000 annually.

Physical Damage Coverage

Unlike primary liability coverage, physical damage coverage pays for all the damage and losses your commercial vehicle might face while on the road. This includes collision and non-collision damages. That is damages and losses from crashes, theft, vandalism, and harsh weather.

Physical damage coverage costs between $1000 and $3000 annually.

Medical Payments

Medical payments truck insurance covers the medical expenses of all parties injured in an accident caused by your truck. This includes you, your drivers, and your passengers.

Non-Trucking Liability Coverage

Non-trucking liability insurance covers you when using your truck for non-business purposes. Say you got into an accident while driving your truck for grocery shopping: A non-trucking liability will cover the medical and property damage expenses. It costs about $400 annually.

Motor Truck Cargo Coverage

Insurance companies offer truck cargo insurance policies to cover the freight for-hire truckers’ transport during transit. Most fleet managers require transport truckers to insure their freight in transit. Truck cargo insurance offers protection in case of an incident, like a fire or spilled cargo.

The cost of cargo insurance for several commercial insurance companies ranges from $400 to $1800 annually.

Bobtail Insurance

Driving your semi-truck without its trailer is known as deadheading or bobtailing. Motor carriers require Semi-truck owner-operators who make such trips to have bobtail insurance coverage. It often costs around $350 to $400 annually.

General Liability

General liability coverage pays for injuries or property damages that are work-related but not directly connected to driving your truck. These might include accidents that happen on your business premises or on a motor carrier or for-hire trucker causes away from your physical location.

A few scenarios general liability insurance covers include:

Property damage and bodily injury liability coverage: Liability protection when an incident at work (covered in the policy) causes property damage or physical injuries to someone. For example, a customer getting injured in a slip-and-fall accident on your premises
Personal and advertising injury liability: Coverage for non-physical injury due to a motor carrier’s negligence
Products/ completed operations: Covers property damage or bodily injury resulting from erroneously delivering another person’s goods.

General liability insurance costs between $500 and $600 annually.

Commercial Truck Insurance Rating Factors To Consider

Commercial trucking insurance companies calculate your commercial truck insurance rates based on the following factors:

Government Requirements

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets a minimum coverage all truckers must meet, depending on a vehicle’s weight and the freight hauled.

If your vehicle weighs over 10,001 pounds and you transport non-hazardous freight across state lines, FMCSA requires $750,000 combined single limit (CSL) coverage. This means your commercial truck insurance should be able to pay up to $750,000 in combined bodily injury and property damages in an accident.

Private carriers and other for-hire truckers moving hazardous materials must meet $5,000,000 minimum CSL coverage.

USDOT Authority

If you operate under your authority, your USDOT operating history will affect your commercial truck insurance rates. A high crash history might increase your rates.

Operating Radius

Commercial truck drivers who travel across states pay higher rates than those who operate locally.

Cargo

Transporting some cargo is riskier than others, and insurance providers consider this when calculating commercial insurance rates. For instance, insuring a semi-truck moving heavy farm equipment or more dangerous cargo will likely cost more than insuring another truck moving consumer products, like shoes. The higher the risk, the higher your rates will be.

Location

Commercial auto insurance rates vary from state to state. Owner-operators in Mississippi enjoy the lowest rates ($3,552 annually), while their counterparts in New Jersey pay the highest rates (about $20,763).

Vehicle Type

It costs more to insure heavy trucks like tractor-trailers compared to lighter ones. That’s because a semi-truck weighs more and will likely cause more severe damage in an accident than a light box truck carrying similar cargo.

Driving Record

Your driving record and the driving records of all your truck drivers affect your commercial truck insurance cost. A speeding ticket on your driving record can increase your semi-truck insurance cost by thousands.

How To Get High-Quality Commercial Truck Insurance At Affordable Rates

You can find affordable commercial truck insurance coverage that offers the highest value for your specific business by:

Requesting truck insurance quotes from multiple companies: First, identify your business insurance needs. Then, ask for several quotes and go through each to find insurance that will meet all your needs at a reasonable price.
Asking about discounts: You can get several discounts to reduce the cost of a truck insurance policy you’ve identified as the best for your business. Some common discounts to help you save money include:
Business experience discount: You qualify for this if your business is three years or older
Commercial driving license (CDL) discount: You can receive this discount if you’ve had a valid CDL for a minimum of two years
Paid-in-full discount: This helps you save up to 15% of your truck insurance policy’s total cost.
Choosing higher deductibles: Higher deductibles will help you get cheaper monthly premiums
Keeping a clean driving record: This will ensure your insurance costs remain low in the future.

Conclusion

Whether cheap semi-truck insurance is worthwhile depends on how well a commercial truck insurance policy meets your business’s insurance needs. If it covers all aspects of your business, it’s worth it. If it doesn’t, it’s not worth it because you might spend more settling claims and other uncovered costs out-of-pocket.

Check out our add-on coverage offers to find affordable truck insurance alternatives for different types of coverage.

The Commercial Trucking Insurance Requirements You Need To Know About

Commercial trucking is a vital industry that keeps goods moving across cities, states, and countries. Grocery stores would go out of stock in three days if the trucking industry suddenly stopped operating.

Before reaping the rewards of owning trucking companies as the operating authority, you must meet the commercial trucking insurance requirements. With the right knowledge, you can ensure the best protection for your business, comply with legal regulations, and mitigate potential risks.

We’ll explore the types of insurance coverage, discuss their purposes, coverage specifics, and the importance of obtaining adequate coverage limits. So, let’s dive in and explore the essential insurance requirements that every commercial trucking professional should know.

Top Commercial Trucking Insurance Requirements

As a commercial trucking professional, understanding and meeting the insurance requirements is vital for the success and security of your business. Let’s unravel the key insurance requirements crucial for a thriving and protected commercial trucking operation.

Liability Insurance

Commercial auto liability insurance is a crucial requirement for commercial trucking operations. It covers damages or injuries caused by your truck while on public roads. There are two parts to public liability insurance, namely the following:

Bodily injury: This coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs associated with injuries to other parties involved in an accident caused by your truck. It helps protect you financially if you’re found responsible for causing bodily harm to others.
Property damage: Your commercial truck insurance pays for repairing or replacing other people’s property damaged by your truck. It includes vehicles, structures, or any other property that may have been affected.

There are certain commercial trucking insurance requirements that you need to follow when running a trucking company. Let’s look at a few:

Minimum coverage: The minimum liability insurance requirements can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of cargo you transport. Each jurisdiction typically sets its minimum limits for liability coverage. For example, it may require a certain minimum amount of coverage per accident, as well as a minimum coverage amount for property damage and bodily injury.
Proof of insurance: It’s important to carry proof of liability insurance with you while operating your commercial truck. In most jurisdictions, you need to carry proof of insurance documents. This proof can be an insurance certificate or a card showing you have the required coverage.
Additional considerations: Some requirements can also be influenced by the size and weight of your small-scale semi-truck and the cargo you’re transporting. Some jurisdictions may have specific insurance requirements for specialized trucking operations like hazardous materials transportation.

Liability insurance protects your business and personal assets in an accident. It’s essential to understand the specific commercial trucking insurance requirements and consult with insurance professionals to ensure you have the proper insurance coverage for your trucking company.

Cargo Insurance

Motor truck cargo insurance is a specific type of insurance coverage crucial for commercial trucking operations involving the transportation of goods.

This physical damage coverage protects the cargo that you’re hauling in your truck. It provides coverage if the shipment is damaged, lost, or stolen during transit.

Let’s look at how cargo insurance works:

Coverage: Cargo insurance typically covers a range of risks that can affect the cargo in transit. It includes damages caused by accidents, theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events.
Types of cargo: Cargo insurance can be tailored to the specific goods you’re transporting. Whether it’s general merchandise, perishable goods, hazardous materials, valuable items, or specialized cargo, insurance options are available to suit different cargo types.
Coverage limits: The coverage limits for cargo insurance depend on the value of the cargo being transported. It’s essential to accurately estimate the value of the goods and ensure that your coverage adequately protects their worth.

The coverage limits for cargo insurance depend on the cargo’s value. It’s essential to accurately estimate the value of the goods and ensure that your coverage adequately protects their worth.

Bobtail Insurance

Bobtail insurance, or non-trucking liability insurance, is a type of insurance coverage designed for commercial truck drivers who operate their vehicles without a trailer or while not under dispatch.

Coverage: Bobtail insurance covers bodily injury and property damage liability. If you cause an accident while bobtailing, this insurance helps cover medical expenses, property repairs, legal fees, and other associated costs.
Difference from liability insurance: Primary liability insurance covers your truck while you are under dispatch. Bobtail insurance extends coverage to your vehicle during non-business or off-duty situations.
Employer coverage: If you are a leased driver, your motor carrier may provide primary liability coverage while you’re under dispatch. However, once you’re off-duty or bobtailing, that coverage may not apply. Bobtail insurance helps fill that gap and provides coverage during non-business use.

Insurance requirements: Some motor carriers or contracts may require you to carry bobtail insurance as a condition of employment. It ensures adequate coverage when operating the truck outside of business-related activities.
Cost and coverage limits: The cost of bobtail insurance can vary based on factors such as your driving record, the value of your truck, and the coverage limits you choose. The coverage limits should be sufficient to protect you in case of an accident.

This is an essential insurance for owner-operators or leased drivers who use their trucks for personal use or when returning to their base after completing a delivery. It offers protection when the truck is not actively engaged in business-related activities.

Final Thoughts

Understanding commercial truck insurance requirements is essential for anyone involved in the trucking industry. Whether you’re an owner-operator or a leased driver, these requirements help ensure compliance, protect your business, and minimize potential risks.

Commercial trucking Insurance requirements can vary by jurisdiction, cargo type, and the nature of your trucking operation. By following these commercial trucking insurance requirements, you can confidently choose the right insurance company and operate while protecting your assets.

At Mission Financial Services, we can help you get started in the exciting world of operating trucking companies. We can also point you in the right direction for commercial truck insurance for small businesses. No matter your credit score, get in touch to find out how.