What insurance do I need as an owner-operator?

At minimum, owner-operators need Primary Auto Liability insurance — the FMCSA requires at least $750,000 for general freight. Most owner-operators also carry Physical Damage (to protect their truck), Motor Truck Cargo (to protect the freight they haul), and Bobtail insurance (for when driving without a trailer). If you have a lease with a motor carrier, you may also need Non-Trucking Liability. Insure 4 Trucks will help you build the right package for your specific operation.

How fast can I get commercial truck insurance?

Same-day coverage is available in most cases at Insure 4 Trucks. Once you approve your policy and payment is processed, we can bind coverage and issue your Certificate of Insurance (COI) within hours. Call us at (888) 711-6003 or start a quote online at insure4trucks.com.

Can I get trucking insurance with a new authority?

Yes. Insure 4 Trucks specializes in new authorities. We work with carriers that accept new DOT numbers and can often get you covered the same day you receive your authority. While rates may be higher initially due to limited operating history, we shop our network of 600+ carriers to find you the most competitive option.

What is bobtail insurance?

Bobtail insurance (also called non-trucking liability) covers your commercial truck when you are driving it without a trailer — for example, after dropping off a load or heading to pick one up. It fills the gap when your motor carrier's insurance doesn't apply. Owner-operators who are leased to a carrier typically need bobtail insurance to be fully protected.

Do you cover trucks with violations or accidents on record?

Yes. Insure 4 Trucks works with a wide range of carriers, including those that specialize in non-standard risks. Having violations or accidents on your record may affect your premium, but it does not automatically disqualify you. We shop 600+ carriers to find the best available rate for your situation.

What states does Insure 4 Trucks cover?

Insure 4 Trucks serves owner-operators and fleets across all 48 contiguous (lower) states. We do not currently offer coverage in Alaska or Hawaii.

How do I get a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?

Once your policy is active, Insure 4 Trucks can issue a Certificate of Insurance (COI) the same day. You can also request one anytime through our self-service COI portal at coi.insurance4truck.com — available 24/7 for active policyholders.

What documents do I need to get a commercial truck insurance quote?

For a basic quote you need: your DOT number, driver information (name, license number, hire date, CDL years), and vehicle details (year, make, VIN, value). For the most accurate quote from our full market of 600+ carriers, also prepare: MVRs for all drivers, 3 years of loss runs, IFTA reports for the last 4 quarters, your current MCS-150, and your current Certificate of Insurance.

What is the FMCSA minimum insurance requirement for commercial trucks?

The FMCSA requires a minimum of $750,000 in Auto Liability for general freight carriers. Hazmat carriers require $1,000,000 to $5,000,000 depending on the commodity. Many brokers and shippers require $1,000,000 regardless of FMCSA minimums. Insure 4 Trucks will ensure your policy meets all federal and broker requirements.

What types of trucks does Insure 4 Trucks insure?

Insure 4 Trucks insures all types of commercial trucks including: semi trucks (Class 8 big rigs), owner-operators (leased or independent authority), hot shot trucks (pickup and gooseneck), box trucks, cargo vans, and fleets of 2 to 50+ units. If it hauls freight commercially, we can cover it.

What is motor truck cargo insurance?

Motor Truck Cargo insurance protects the freight you are hauling against loss, theft, or damage while in transit. Most shippers and brokers require cargo coverage, and the required limits vary by commodity. Insure 4 Trucks can help you determine the right cargo limit for your operation.

How do I renew my commercial truck insurance policy?

Insure 4 Trucks recommends starting the renewal process 90 days before your expiration date. We will reach out proactively to begin shopping the market. To get the best rates, have your updated driver list, MVRs for all drivers, and 3 years of loss runs ready early. See our full Renewal Guide on the website for a step-by-step timeline.

What carriers does Insure 4 Trucks work with?

Insure 4 Trucks has access to 600+ insurance carriers, including top names like Progressive, GEICO, Cover Whale, STAR Mutual RRG, Motor Transport Mutual RRG, and Technology Transportation RRG. Our broad market access means we can find competitive rates for both standard and non-standard risks.

What is occupational accident insurance for truckers?

Occupational Accident insurance is an alternative to workers' compensation for independent owner-operators. It covers medical expenses, disability income, and accidental death benefits if you are injured on the job. Since owner-operators are typically not eligible for traditional workers' comp, occupational accident coverage is an important protection for independent drivers.

How much does commercial truck insurance cost?

Commercial truck insurance costs vary widely based on factors including: driving record and MVR history, years of experience, type of cargo hauled, radius of operation, equipment value, and claims history. Owner-operators typically pay between $8,000 and $20,000+ per year for a full coverage package. Insure 4 Trucks shops 600+ carriers to find you the most competitive rate. Call (888) 711-6003 or get a free quote online.

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California · Commercial Trucking Insurance

Commercial Truck Insurance in California

California has the strictest trucking regulations in the country. Get properly covered — same-day available.

Get a Free California Quote Call (888) 711-6003

600+

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Commercial Truck Insurance in California

California is the largest trucking market in the United States, with the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach handling more container volume than any other port complex in North America. California also has the most complex regulatory environment for truckers — including CARB emissions requirements, AB5 independent contractor rules, and strict CDTFA weight fee requirements. Insure 4 Trucks helps California truckers navigate these requirements and find coverage that keeps them compliant and competitive.

Coverage Options for California Truckers

Primary Auto Liability (FMCSA & CPUC compliant)

Physical Damage — Collision & Comprehensive

Motor Truck Cargo Insurance

Bobtail / Non-Trucking Liability

General Liability

Occupational Accident Coverage

Port Drayage Coverage

Intermodal Container Coverage

California Trucking Insurance Requirements

California commercial carriers must comply with FMCSA federal requirements AND California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) regulations for for-hire carriers. Interstate carriers need minimum $750,000 liability. California also requires compliance with CARB (California Air Resources Board) emissions standards, which affect which trucks can operate in the state.

Average Trucking Insurance Cost in California

California has some of the highest commercial trucking insurance rates in the country, typically $12,000–$25,000+ per year for owner-operators. High traffic density, elevated cargo values at LA/Long Beach ports, and California's litigation environment all contribute to higher premiums. Port drayage operators and intermodal carriers may face additional rate factors.

Cities We Serve in California

Los AngelesSan DiegoSan JoseSan FranciscoFresnoSacramentoLong BeachOaklandBakersfieldStockton

Frequently Asked Questions — California Trucking Insurance

What insurance do California truckers need?

California truckers need FMCSA-required Primary Auto Liability and must also comply with CPUC regulations. Port drayage operators at LA/Long Beach need additional coverage. Most shippers require Motor Truck Cargo insurance.

How does AB5 affect trucking insurance in California?

California's AB5 law affects how owner-operators are classified. Some carriers may require you to be covered under their policy rather than your own. Our agents can help you understand your coverage obligations under your specific operating arrangement.

How much is truck insurance in California?

California owner-operators typically pay $12,000–$25,000+ per year — among the highest in the country. Port drayage, hazmat, and high-value cargo carriers pay even more.

Do I need special insurance for port drayage in Los Angeles?

Yes. Port drayage at LA/Long Beach often requires specific coverage including terminal liability and higher cargo limits. Contact our team to discuss your specific port operation.