What Should You Consider When Getting Trucking Insurance?
The trucking industry is the backbone of American commerce—but it also comes with complex risks and insurance requirements. Whether you're an independent owner-operator or managing a fleet, having the right trucking insurance is critical for legal compliance, financial protection, and peace of mind. Here's what to consider when choosing a policy.
1. Type of Trucking Operation
Are you involved in long-haul trucking, local deliveries, or something in between? The nature of your operation affects your insurance needs. Long-haul drivers often require higher liability limits and additional coverages, while local drivers may benefit from lower premiums but still need adequate protection.
2. Federal and State Regulations
Trucking businesses must comply with state and federal insurance regulations. For example, the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) requires specific minimum liability coverage for interstate carriers, typically ranging from $750,000 to $5 million depending on what you're hauling. Hixson & Malinowski can help ensure you're meeting these requirements while tailoring coverage to your actual risks.
3. Primary Liability Insurance
This is the core of any trucking policy and covers injuries or property damage you cause to others in an accident. Without it, you can't operate legally. Make sure your policy reflects your vehicle type, driving radius, and state or federal filing requirements.
4. Physical Damage Coverage
Primary liability doesn't cover damage to your own truck or trailer. Physical damage coverage includes both collision and comprehensive coverage, protecting your vehicle from accidents, theft, vandalism, fire, and more. It’s especially important if you lease or finance your equipment.
5. Motor Truck Cargo Insurance
If you're hauling goods for clients, you'll likely need motor truck cargo insurance. This covers the value of the cargo you're transporting in case of loss, theft, or damage. Keep in mind that certain cargo types—like electronics or hazardous materials—may require special consideration or higher premiums.
6. Non-Trucking Liability & Bobtail Insurance
When you're driving your truck without a load or not under dispatch, non-trucking liability or bobtail insurance fills the coverage gap. It’s a common requirement for leased drivers and can be easily bundled into a broader policy.
7. Driver History & Safety Record
Your drivers’ Motor Vehicle Reports (MVRs) play a big role in determining insurance costs. A clean driving record helps keep premiums low, while accidents, violations, or DUIs can drive rates up or even make it difficult to obtain coverage.
8. Vehicle Types and Usage
Insurers need detailed information about your trucks:
Make and model
Year and mileage
Safety features (like dash cams or GPS tracking)
Type of trailer used (flatbed, refrigerated, tanker, etc.)
The more accurately you can describe your equipment and its use, the better your coverage and rates will reflect your needs.
9. Deductibles and Premiums
Trucking insurance can be expensive. One way to control costs is by adjusting your deductible. A higher deductible generally lowers your premium, but make sure it’s an amount you can afford in the event of a claim.
Also consider bundling policies—such as liability, cargo, and physical damage—with one carrier to maximize discounts and simplify claims handling.
10. Additional Coverages to Consider
Depending on your business model, you might also need:
Trailer Interchange Insurance: For hauling trailers you don’t own
General Liability: For injuries or damage that occur off the road
Downtime Coverage: Compensation when your truck is out of service
Environmental or Hazmat Coverage: For spills or hazardous cargo cleanup
How Hixson & Malinowski Insurance Helps Ohio Truckers
As an independent agency based in Parma, Hixson & Malinowski Insurance works closely with local and regional trucking businesses to:
Understand their specific risks
Build custom policies from top national carriers
Ensure compliance with FMCSA, DOT, and state insurance mandates
Provide fast, knowledgeable claims support when you need it most
Whether you're an independent driver or running a growing fleet, we make sure you’re covered—mile after mile.
Trucking insurance isn't just about protecting your rig—it's about safeguarding your business, your clients, and your livelihood. With so many moving parts to consider, partnering with an experienced agency like Hixson & Malinowski ensures you get a policy tailored to your specific needs and budget.
