Straight answers to the questions owner-operators, fleets, and new carriers ask us most. Don’t see yours? Call 205-221-5466.
Getting started
What insurance do I need to get my MC number active?
For-hire carriers hauling non-hazardous freight in vehicles with a GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more must have at least $750,000 of bodily injury and property damage liability on file with FMCSA. Your insurance company files proof of that coverage (usually a BMC-91X) with FMCSA. FMCSA will not grant operating authority until the required coverage is on file.
Can you insure a brand-new authority?
Yes. We work with new ventures, including carriers with no prior trucking insurance history. Fewer markets write new authorities, so start early and have your driver information, unit details, and operating plans ready.
How quickly can my insurance filing be made?
Once a policy is bound, the insurance company files proof of coverage with FMCSA electronically. Timing depends on the carrier and how fast the application is complete, so send us your DOT and MC numbers and driver and unit details as early as you can.
What do you need from me for a quote?
Your USDOT number, current declarations pages, and three years of loss runs. Driver and vehicle details help us finish faster.
Do you name the insurance companies you work with?
We place coverage with A-rated carriers that write trucking. Which carrier is the best fit depends on your operation, so we discuss the specific options with you when we present your quotes.
Liability and filings
What are the FMCSA minimum liability limits?
For for-hire property carriers, FMCSA requires $300,000 for non-hazardous freight in vehicles under 10,001 pounds GVWR, $750,000 for non-hazardous freight in vehicles of 10,001 pounds or more, $1,000,000 for certain hazardous materials, and $5,000,000 for explosives, poison gas, or radioactive materials. Household goods carriers need $750,000 in liability plus $5,000 in cargo coverage.
Why do brokers ask for $1,000,000 in liability?
The federal minimum is what keeps your authority active, but brokers and shippers set their own contract requirements. Many require $1,000,000 in auto liability, and some require more through umbrella or excess coverage.
What is a BMC-91X?
A BMC-91X is the form an insurance company files with FMCSA to show that a motor carrier has the required liability coverage. The insurance company files it, not the trucker.
What is the MCS-90 endorsement?
The MCS-90 is an endorsement attached to the liability policy of for-hire and interstate motor carriers. It guarantees the public is protected up to the federal minimum, but if the insurer pays a claim the policy would not otherwise cover, it can seek reimbursement from the motor carrier.
What happens if my insurance cancels?
The insurance company notifies FMCSA when a filed policy cancels, and your operating authority can be revoked if replacement coverage is not filed. Keep payments current and call us right away if anything changes.
Owner-operators
What insurance do I need if I’m leased on to a motor carrier?
The motor carrier’s primary liability typically covers you while you are under its dispatch. Most leases require you to carry non-trucking liability or bobtail for other times, and you’ll usually need physical damage on your own truck. Your lease agreement spells out the requirements.
What is the difference between non-trucking liability and bobtail?
Non-trucking liability generally covers you when you are using the truck for a non-business purpose, with or without a trailer. Bobtail generally covers you when you are driving the tractor without a trailer, which can include some business driving depending on the policy wording.
Is occupational accident the same as workers’ compensation?
No. Occupational accident is a separate policy that can pay benefits if an owner-operator is injured on the job, but its benefits, limits, and terms differ from workers’ compensation.
Cargo and physical damage
Is cargo insurance required by law?
FMCSA does not require cargo insurance for for-hire carriers of general freight. Household goods carriers must file at least $5,000 of cargo coverage. Most brokers and shippers require cargo coverage by contract, and many ask for $100,000.
Does cargo insurance cover reefer breakdown?
Only if the policy includes it. Reefer breakdown coverage is often an endorsement with its own conditions and deductible, so temperature-controlled haulers should confirm it in writing.
What is the difference between stated amount and actual cash value?
On a stated amount policy, you state the value of each unit when the policy is written, but many stated amount policies pay the lesser of the stated amount, the actual cash value, or the cost to repair. Actual cash value is the unit’s value at the time of the loss, after depreciation.
Does my motor carrier’s policy cover my truck if I’m leased on?
Usually not. The motor carrier’s policy typically covers liability, not damage to an owner-operator’s truck. If you own the truck, plan on insuring it yourself.
Working with us
Where are you located?
Transportation Risk Specialists is a division of Old National Insurance Inc., located at 806 Highway 78 West, Jasper, AL 35501. Call the office at 205-221-5466.
Which states do you serve?
We serve trucking operations across the Southeast, including Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Florida, Louisiana, Arkansas, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Kentucky. If your trucks are based somewhere else, call 205-221-5466 and we’ll tell you whether we can help.
What are your office hours?
Our office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Central. Call 205-221-5466 during office hours.
Can I reach you after hours?
Yes. After office hours, call our after-hours line at 205-275-5005. If no one picks up, leave your name, number, and DOT number and we’ll call you back.
How do I get a certificate of insurance?
Call 205-221-5466 or email orharris@goharrisinsurance.com with your company name, USDOT number, the certificate holder’s name and address, and any required wording such as additional insured or waiver of subrogation.
Still have a question? Call 205-221-5466 or start your quote with your DOT number.