Motor Truck Cargo InsuranceMotor Truck Cargo Insurance for For-Hire Carriers & Haulers
Motor Truck Cargo insurance helps protect a for-hire carrier’s legal liability when freight or commodities in its care, custody, and control are damaged or lost due to a covered peril in transit.
Requesting a quote is free and does not bind coverage. All policies are subject to carrier underwriting and state availability.
Multi-Carrier Shop
Compare multiple US insurance carriers from one single online application.
Fast COI & Filings
Prompt certificates of insurance (COI), BMC-91 & SR-22 filing support.
New Authorities Welcome
Dedicated programs for new USDOT/MC numbers, box trucks & owner-operators.
Licensed Independent Advice
Transparent coverage comparisons with zero obligation to buy.
Coverage Options
Core coverages evaluated for Motor Truck Cargo Insurance
Coverage limits, deductibles, and endorsements are structured around your equipment, contracts, and operating authority:
- Customizable per-occurrence cargo limits tailored to shipper and freight broker agreements
- Commodity-specific underwriting for general freight, building materials, refrigerated goods, and vehicles
- Optional endorsements such as Refrigeration Breakdown (Reefer Breakdown), Debris Removal, and Earned Freight where available
- Coordinated packaging with Primary Auto Liability and Physical Damage policies
Intended Customer Profile
Who this insurance program helps
- Dry van, flatbed, step-deck, and box truck for-hire motor carriers
- Refrigerated (reefer) carriers transporting temperature-sensitive food or produce
- Car haulers and auto transporters needing vehicle-specific cargo wording
- Hotshot and expedited cargo van operators working with freight brokers
Key Operational Risks Addressed
- • Collision, overturn, or fire damaging customer freight during transport
- • Cargo theft from unattended trucks, drop lots, or truck stops
- • Mechanical failure of a refrigeration unit causing spoilage of temperature-controlled loads
- • Water damage, wetness, or improper tarping claims on flatbed or older dry-van trailers
What influences your premium
Insurance premiums are determined by carrier underwriting rather than flat rates. Key rating variables include:
- Types of commodities hauled (e.g., general dry freight vs. electronics, produce, or automobiles)
- Requested cargo limit, deductible amount, and number of power units
- Operating radius, overnight parking security, and prior cargo claim history
Underwriting considerations
- Accurate breakdown of commodities hauled by percentage of total revenue or loads
- Disclosure of maximum load value and any high-value or target-theft goods
- Adherence to carrier security, locking, or temperature-monitoring requirements
Common exclusions & terms to verify
- Cargo insurance limits and requirements depend on the specific operation, shipper/broker contracts, and applicable regulations; particular cargo limits are generally driven by contract rather than a single universal federal mandate for general freight
- Common exclusions that require policy review include unattended vehicle theft limitations, rust/oxidation, temperature change without reefer breakdown endorsement, contraband, jewelry/cash, live animals, and dishonest acts
What to have ready for an accurate quote
- Complete list of commodities hauled and estimated percentage of each
- Average and maximum value of cargo carried on a single truck
- Contractual cargo limit requested by your shippers or freight brokers
- Vehicle and trailer details, including reefer unit year/model if hauling refrigerated freight
Explore Related Commercial Trucking & Auto Programs
Frequently asked questions
Helpful answers before you begin.
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