Motor Truck Cargo

Motor truck cargo insurance is insurance designed to cover the liability of the motor carrier for destruction, damage, or other loss of the customer’s property being shipped. There are many different types and coverages of motor truck cargo available. It is important that motor carriers carefully vet the type of cargo coverage purchased from an insurance agent.

What am I required to maintain by law?

There is no longer a federal mandate of cargo insurance for motor carriers who do not transport household goods (BMC 34 or BMC 83). However, it is imperative that trucking companies purchase cargo insurance to adequately protect that goods transported. Many cargo insurance policies contain exclusions and deductibles which may limit insurance coverage. The typical coverage for a for-hire motor carrier is $100,000, but may increase based on commodities hauled and shipper or broker requirements.