New Clients: (301) 386-0900 | Current Clients: Get Service
Trucking Coverage Explained
Liability, cargo, physical damage, bobtail and trailer interchange.
What types of trucks do you insure?
Tractor-trailers, box trucks, straight trucks, dump trucks, hot shot rigs, flatbeds, tow trucks and service vehicles, from a single owner-operator to a full fleet.
Can a brand-new trucking company get insurance?
Yes. New authorities can be harder to place, but we work with insurance companies that write new ventures. Driver experience, the type of freight and where you operate make the biggest difference in price.
What is primary auto liability?
Primary liability pays for injuries and property damage your truck causes to others. It is the coverage the government and most brokers require before you can haul under your own authority.
What is motor truck cargo insurance?
Cargo coverage pays for damage to or loss of the freight you are hauling. Most brokers and shippers require it, and the right limit depends on the value of the loads you carry.
What is physical damage coverage for trucks?
Physical damage covers your own tractor, trailer or truck after a collision, fire, theft or vandalism. It is usually required if your truck is financed or leased.
What is non-trucking liability (bobtail) insurance?
Non-trucking liability covers a leased owner-operator when driving the truck for personal use, off dispatch. The motor carrier's policy typically covers you while you are under dispatch.
What is trailer interchange coverage?
Trailer interchange covers physical damage to a non-owned trailer in your care under a written interchange agreement, which is common in intermodal and drop-and-hook work.
Box Trucks, Dump Trucks & Filings
Specialty trucks, federal filings, certificates and rates.
Do box trucks need commercial insurance?
Yes. A box truck used for deliveries, moving or hauling for pay needs commercial auto coverage, and often cargo and general liability too. Personal auto policies do not cover these vehicles for business use.
Do dump trucks need special coverage?
Dump trucks are commonly insured with commercial auto liability, physical damage, and general liability for job sites. Coverage for the dump body and hoist, and for hired or non-owned vehicles, is also worth reviewing.
Do you help with MCS-90 and BMC-91X filings?
Yes. We help with MCS-90 endorsements, BMC-91X filings and other required filings so your operating authority stays active.
How quickly can I get a certificate of insurance for a broker?
Usually the same business day. Send the broker's name, address and any special wording to csteam@simmererinsurance.com or call (301) 386-0900.
What affects my trucking insurance rate?
Driver experience and MVRs, your safety and CSA scores, radius of operation, type of freight, truck values, claims history and how long you have held your authority all affect price.
Do I need workers comp if I hire drivers?
If you have employees, most states including Maryland require workers compensation. Owner-operators without employees may have other options, so ask us what fits your setup.
Which states do you write trucking insurance in?
We serve trucking businesses in Maryland, DC, Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina.
