Truck Cargo Insurance

Protect your business and cargo with commercial truck cargo insurance
By Kimberly Webb In the trucking industry, protecting your cargo from damage or theft is your top priority, so commercial truck insurance is crucial to your line of business. Getting the right coverage is essential, and it may change depending on the nature of your business and the freight you haul. Finding a good trucking insurance company that will work with you and help you through these changes is vital to success.
 

When you shop for truck cargo insurance providers, there are a few qualities you need to evaluate and compare. Begin by looking at the company's history to get a good idea of how long it's been in business and what sort of services it offers. Also pay attention to:

1. Coverage levels, including details like whether the insurance covers the cargo while it's in the warehouse

2. Truck cargo insurance rates

3. Exclusions, or reasons why you wouldn't get paid for your cargo in the event of a problem

Compare commercial truck insurance coverages

Similar to personal car insurance, semi truck insurance has different coverage levels and deductibles that vary depending on the amount that you're willing to pay for coverage. You want to make sure that your load is covered at full capacity and, if possible, find a company that will cover the shipment while it's in storage. This policy rider may make a huge difference if a shipment is delayed and damaged while in storage.
Try: Explore your options. Start by getting a quote from Western Truck Insurance Services and FM Global and compare the policies side by side. If you don't understand a particular coverage or section, don't hesitate to ask one of their agents for clarification.

Get quotes on truck cargo insurance rates

Once you have a better idea of what coverage you need, you can start shopping around for the best price. If you're flexible on the deductible amount, you can usually get the policy down to a price that you're comfortable with and still get the coverage that you need.
Try: Look at trucking insurance companies that are owned by other truckers. Companies like Owner Operator Direct and Trucker Services Association have competitive pricing because they understand your needs as the owner of a semi.

Choose a commercial truck cargo insurance company that's well respected

When you're buying insurance, it pays to go with a company that has a history of paying on time and taking care of its customers. Be wary of a new company that doesn't have a lot of experience in the field. Check out its history and ask how long it's been in business and what the claims procedure is like before committing.
Try: Give your business to truck cargo insurance companies that are well established. Progressive Commercial and JD Tanner Insurance are known in the industry for their customer service and long-standing history of success.

• Before you purchase commercial trucking insurance, it's important to know what permits, if any, you need to operate legally in the state or states in which you'll be working.