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What truck insurance costs
There's no single price for truck insurance. Here's what insurance companies look at, and what you can do to pay less.
What drives your premium
- Driving record. Clean MVRs and two or more years of CDL experience get the best pricing
- Radius and states. Local and regional work usually costs less than long-haul
- What you haul. Higher-value or higher-risk freight raises cargo and liability rates
- Equipment value. Physical damage is priced on what your truck and trailer are worth
- Safety scores and loss history. CSA scores, inspections and past claims all count
- Where the truck is garaged. Rates vary by ZIP code, even inside California
- Limits and deductibles. Higher liability limits cost more; higher physical damage deductibles cost less
- Years in business. New authorities pay more until they build a clean record
- Continuous coverage. A gap in coverage can raise your rate or limit your options
How to lower your truck insurance cost
- Hire carefully. Run MVRs before you hire, and favor drivers with two or more years of experience.
- Keep your CSA scores clean. Insurance companies check inspection and violation history.
- Install dashcams and telematics. Many insurance companies give credit, and video helps defend claims.
- Choose the right deductible. A higher physical damage deductible lowers your premium if you can cover it.
- Be accurate about radius and freight. Misstating them can lead to a denied claim or a surprise at audit.
- Never let coverage lapse. Continuous coverage keeps more markets open to you.
- Shop with an independent agent. Rates for the same truck can vary widely between insurance companies.
Common questions
Why is truck insurance so expensive?
Trucking claims can be very large, with lawsuits, injuries and expensive equipment involved. Insurance companies price for that risk, especially for new authorities.
Is it cheaper to be leased on or run my own authority?
Leased on usually costs less in insurance, because the carrier provides primary liability. With your own authority you pay more but keep more of each load.
Does paying in full save money?
Often yes. Many policies cost less paid in full than financed in installments.
Ready to get your trucks covered?
Talk to a trucking agent today. Quotes are free and there's no obligation.