How Much Insurance Is Needed For A Hotshot Trucking Business

How Much Insurance Is Needed For A Hotshot Trucking Business

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires hotshot truckers to carry a base liability coverage of $750,000. This amount should cover bodily injury, property damage, and physical damage. Most insurers charge around $7,000 to $10,000 for policies with a $750,000 liability coverage.

Factors to Consider for Your Hotshot Trucking Insurance Coverage

Since hotshot truckers often move time-sensitive, fragile cargo, we encourage going beyond the minimum requirements of the FMCSA. $750,000 is not enough to cover cargo and truck damages. 

First-party vehicular damages from tractor-trailer accidents alone would already set you back by over $97,000. You might have to pay for claims exceeding policy limits out of pocket.

To ensure that you have sufficient protection, consider the following factors before setting coverage limits:

  • Mode of Transportation: High-value trucks that require frequent maintenance might need higher coverage limits.
  • Cargo and Freight: Your coverage limit should cover the full amount of your freight.
  • Hauling Hours: Truckers who transport cargo at night are more likely to get into road accidents.

Do not solely focus on getting cheap premiums. Compromising your coverage limits for the sake of minimizing premiums does more harm than good. Overall, strive for an extensive, practical policy covering the risks you face as a hotshot trucker. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the base liability coverage required for a hotshot trucking business?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates hotshot truckers to carry a minimum liability coverage of $750,000.

What factors should be considered when determining insurance coverage for a hotshot trucking business?

Consider factors such as the mode of transportation, the value of the cargo and freight, and the hauling hours, which can impact the potential for accidents.

Should I prioritize cheap premiums for my hotshot trucking business insurance?

No, it’s crucial to aim for extensive, practical policy coverage that encompasses the risks associated with hotshot trucking rather than just seeking cheap premiums.

Not sure if your cargo is protected when you load and unload it from the truck? Assured Standard can give you more insights into the topic! Check out our quick piece explaining trailer interchange insurance.

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About the Author
Arthur Williamson
Arthur started Assured Standard after seeing his sister struggle with finding insurance policies for her business. Thanks to his background in business administration, he knows exactly what small and big businesses need to keep operations running.
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Assured Standard will protect your business with the right insurance, depending on your needs. Now more than ever, it’s crucial to have the right general liability insurance experts on your side. Protecting the future of your business starts today.
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