Insurance

Truck insurance might seem complicated and overwhelming, but that’s why our team is here. We’re transportation professionals who help businesses insure their commercial vehicles all day, every day. We understand the risks you face and the coverages you need to protect your business from them. Our goal is to make truck insurance as easy as possible.

Part of that includes the articles below. The following articles explain different concepts and different coverages that your truck business might need. Commercial vehicle insurance might seem overwhelming, but that’s why we’ve broken down different topics into smaller, manageable articles. From deductibles to physical damage coverage, we’ve compiled useful information for any trucking business to have.

So, take some time to click through and read the posts below. They’re there for you to read at your leisure. We hope that you enjoy the content and find it helpful as you begin the process of getting coverage for your trucks.

The Process of Applying for Operating Authority and DOT Numbers

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires commercial drivers to apply for an identification number with the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) as well as an operating authority (MC number) in some cases.

To obtain your identification number via the USDOT, you must complete an online registration form at the FMCSA Unified Registration System (URS). You’ll have to access the URS directly since the FMCSA stopped accepting paper registrations for first-time applicants in December 2015. You won’t need to pay a fee to complete your registration.

In this article, we’ll discuss the process of applying for your MC number and DOT number. Let’s get started!

What’s a BMC 91 Filing?

Like any other industry, trucking businesses are required to comply with state and federal insurance laws. The FMCSA oversees this sector and it’s a requirement for all motor carriers, broker authorities, and freight forwarders to have the necessary insurance in place before they can be issued operating authorities.

However, it’s important to note, different situations require different filings. Therefore, you must know what federal filings you need since each has a distinct purpose. The main factors that influence which truck insurance filings you need are the type of cargo you haul, what you drive, and your hauling radius.

In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of BMC-91 filings as well as the MCS-90, BMC-84, and BMC-34. Let’s get started.

What’s Reefer Breakdown Coverage?

A typical reefer truck has a separate refrigerated unit you attach to the trailer or it has one built directly into the frame. Refrigeration units keep perishable goods at the correct temperature for the duration of the trip. If you routinely transport perishable goods, adding reefer breakdown coverage to your insurance policy can give you added protection and peace of mind.

Refrigerated goods need special coverage since they pose a higher risk than other types of cargo. We’ll highlight some of the risks of hauling refrigerated goods below as well as what to look for in an insurance policy.

California Truck Insurance Requirements

Every commercial motor vehicle on the road must have sufficient coverage in place. Apart from being a legal requirement, commercial auto insurance provides the insured parties with financial protection in the event of a covered loss. Commercial motor vehicles are massive investments, and as a truck driver, you’ll want to safeguard your asset.

If you’re a truck driver in California you’re probably on the hunt for the best coverage and rates. Especially as inflation continues to drive up the cost of goods around the world. As a business in the transportation industry, we understand the urge to cut back on expenses. However, now’s not the time to cut back on your insurance coverage. With a few simple tips, you can manage your insurance costs without breaking the bank.

In this article, we’ll discuss the FMCSA insurance requirements in California and the various factors that affect your rates. Let’s get started.

If you're getting your operating authority, you need to have certain levels of insurance.

What is the minimum insurance I need to get my truck operating authority?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), commercial trucking companies must obtain an MC number or interstate operating authority number if they meet certain criteria. The interstate operating authority number is in addition to the requirement of obtaining a Department of Transportation (DOT) number.

Find out how a motor carrier, broker, and freight forwarder are different.

What’s the difference: Motor carrier, broker, and freight forwarder authority

Do the terms you hear used in the trucking industry sometimes make it seem like people are speaking a foreign language? They aren’t, of course, but it never hurts to seek clarity to ensure that you’re following all rules depending on the type of trucking business you operate or who you work under.

How do I get a CDL?

With soaring demand for truck drivers comes a wonderful opportunity. For those who have a CDL, finding a good paying job with a great employer is easier than ever before. To access the opportunity, though, you’ll need to have a Commercial Driver’s License or CDL. While each state varies, the training, amount of time it takes to qualify, and the process is similar.

Do I Need Commercial Auto Insurance?

Vehicles, whether leased, rented, or owned, are essential for a variety of tasks when running a business. Companies of all sizes rely on safe and functional vehicles to serve their customers and generate a profit, regardless of whether they’re transporting materials and tools to work sites, hauling goods for deliveries, or driving to meet clients.

It’s critical to protect your drivers and vehicles with adequate insurance coverage. As a result, many businesses turn to commercial auto insurance.

What’s the Cheapest State for Commercial Truck Insurance?

Truck insurance is the best way to ensure that your business is protected and can operate free of worry. It can be fairly dangerous for truck drivers these days as accidents and cargo thefts become more prevalent. However, commercial truck insurance is not cheap by any means. This expense can cost truckers tens of thousands of dollars in some cases.

Thus, fleet owners and independent drivers need to weigh their options when purchasing truck insurance.

Your business’s location plays a major factor in the rates you’ll be paying yearly. Therefore, in this article, we’ll discuss the cheapest states for commercial truck insurance and ways to manage this expense. Let’s get started.