Ryan Galiotto

Federal and State governments mandate that trucking companies have coverage in their trucking insurance policy for public liability for bodily injury, property damage and environmental restoration. The amount of public liability insurance required will vary from company to company depending on the type of operation.

The GVW of the truck is part of what determines the limit of public liability insurance that is required by the FMCSA. Trucks that have a GVW of less than 10,000 pounds must carry $300,000 of coverage, and if they are over 10,000 pounds then they need $750,000. If their trucks transport hazardous materials the requirements are raised to $1,000,000.

There is also a requirement for the cargo being transported to be insured for at least $5,000. However, most companies having good being transported require that the cargo is covered with $100,000 of cargo insurance coverage.

In addition to the above, trucks must have a minimum level of cargo insurance coverage of $5,000. Most companies that you are transporting for will require at lease $100,000, despite the minimal requirement.

After they have purchased their insurance policy, the insurance provider and not the agent will file the required forms with the FMCSA. The provider has about 20 days to make the insurance filing after they have received FMCSA authority. Owning or leasing the trucks being insured is required before they can receive this authority.

Understanding what is required by the FMCSA, state law, and the company whose goods are being transported, should be a top priority. By doing so getting quotes for coverage and ultimately purchasing a trucking insurance policy can be done with confidence.

Contact an insurance broker with any questions or concerns. Brokers have experience determining the type and amount of trucking insurance coverage that transportation companies need.