Running a trucking business — whether you’re an owner-operator or managing a small fleet — involves more than just hauling freight. One of the most overlooked areas that can make or break your business is insurance planning.
In 2025, with rising operational costs, tighter broker requirements, and increased FMCSA oversight, having the right insurance strategy is more important than ever.
Here are 5 must-know insurance tips for anyone in the trucking industry:
✅ 1. Review Your Coverage at Least Twice a Year
Rates change. So do your needs. Whether you added a new truck, hired a driver, or switched lanes, your insurance should reflect those updates.
Tip: Schedule a coverage review every 6 months with a trusted agent like Ensure Inc., especially if you’re expanding.
✅ 2. Don’t Over-Insure (or Under-Insure) Physical Damage
Some truckers pay too much for physical damage insurance on older trucks that aren’t worth full replacement value. Others under-insure high-value equipment and get burned at claim time.
Tip: Know your truck’s actual cash value and adjust your policy accordingly. Ask about towing limits and rental reimbursement too.
✅ 3. Add Occupational Accident Coverage — Even if It’s Not Required
If you’re an independent contractor or don’t have workers’ comp, a single injury can derail your income. Occupational Accident Insurance covers medical bills, lost wages, and disability, all without the cost of full workers’ comp.
Tip: Most brokers expect you to have this — and many won’t work with you if you don’t.
✅ 4. Keep Your Certificate of Insurance (COI) Broker-Ready
Brokers and shippers won’t assign loads if your COI is missing key coverage types or has expired. Make sure yours is updated, clear, and includes all requested endorsements.
Tip: Ensure Inc. provides same-day COIs and handles custom broker requests fast.
✅ 5. Bundle Policies to Save Money
If you also need general liability, cargo insurance, or even home/renters insurance, bundling can save you 10–30%. Plus, you’ll deal with fewer companies and have fewer billing surprises.
Insurance isn’t just paperwork — it’s part of your survival strategy as a trucker. The right plan protects your truck, your income, your reputation — and your future.
📞 Need a Quick Insurance Check-Up?
At Ensure Inc., we specialize in affordable, smart insurance for trucking businesses across Chicago and Illinois. Let us review your policy and make sure you’re getting the coverage — and savings — you deserve.
👉 Call today or request a free quote online.
