Looking for the best trucking insurance companies? Choosing the right insurance is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make for your fleet. It’s not just about meeting the FMCSA insurance requirements; it’s about safeguarding your team, your equipment, and your entire business from the substantial risks you face on the road daily. The right partner can mean the difference between a minor setback and a catastrophic, business-ending event. But with a crowded market full of providers, pinpointing the perfect fit for your specific operation can feel overwhelming.
We’ve done the heavy lifting for you by researching and compiling a detailed breakdown of the industry’s top players. This guide cuts through the noise to provide a clear, actionable comparison of the best trucking insurance companies. For each provider, we analyze their core coverages, unique benefits, and ideal customer profiles, complete with direct links to their websites to simplify your next steps. Our goal is to equip you with the information needed to make a confident, informed decision that protects your assets and keeps your business moving forward securely. Let’s dive in and find the right shield for your company.
1. Sentry Insurance — Transportation/Trucking
For established fleets seeking a specialized partner, Sentry Insurance offers a dedicated focus exclusively on transportation risks. Unlike generalist insurers, Sentry’s entire commercial auto division is built around the trucking industry, providing a level of expertise that is hard to match. They are known for building long-term relationships through a network of appointed agents, making them a top choice for motor carriers who value personalized service and in-depth risk management.
Sentry stands out by integrating safety and risk control directly into its insurance offerings. They don’t just sell you a policy; they provide access to an in-house team of safety specialists who understand the challenges you face on the road and with compliance. This hands-on approach is designed to help you improve your safety posture, which can be critical if you need to fix a Conditional safety rating and lower your long-term insurance costs.
Key Features and Offerings
Sentry’s platform is less about a transactional website and more about a comprehensive service partnership delivered through expert agents.
- Customizable Coverage: Sentry offers a full suite of essential coverages, including auto liability, physical damage, motor truck cargo, and general liability, all tailored to your specific operations.
- In-House Risk Management: You gain access to dedicated safety and claims teams that specialize only in trucking. These resources help with loss prevention, claims handling, and regulatory compliance.
- Industry Recognition: With a strong financial strength rating from AM Best and its status as an American Trucking Associations (ATA) Featured Product, Sentry has a proven and respected track record.
- Agent-Based Model: Policies are developed and serviced through a network of independent agents who specialize in transportation, ensuring you get expert advice and a policy built for your unique needs.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Deep specialization in the trucking industry | Quotes and policies are only available through an agent |
| In-house safety and claims experts provide direct support | May not be the best fit for new ventures or owner-operators |
| Strong financial stability and industry reputation | Lacks the convenience of online quotes and policy binding |
| Longstanding partnerships and tailored risk control solutions |
Ultimately, Sentry is one of the best trucking insurance companies for fleets that want a true risk management partner, not just an insurer. Their agent-centric model and deep industry expertise provide a level of tailored support that is ideal for established carriers focused on safety and long-term stability. They are the gold standard when it comes to protecting your fleet.
Website: Sentry Insurance
2. Progressive Commercial — Truck Insurance
As the largest commercial truck insurer in the United States, Progressive has built a reputation for comprehensive coverage and a streamlined digital experience. The platform is designed to get you from quote to coverage quickly, handling a wide range of trucking operations, from individual owner-operators to large motor carriers. This makes it an excellent starting point for many fleet owners and safety managers looking for reliable and accessible insurance solutions.
Progressive stands out by offering robust online tools combined with deep industry expertise. You can get a quote and bind a policy entirely online, a significant convenience in the fast-paced trucking world. The company also simplifies one of the most complex parts of compliance by assisting with state and Federal filings (like the MCS 90 Form) after you purchase a policy, ensuring you stay road-legal without the administrative headache.
Key Features and Offerings
Progressive’s platform is more than just a place to buy a policy; it offers specialized tools and coverages tailored to the trucking industry.
- Broad Eligibility: Coverage is available for most truck types and operations, including box trucks, semi-trucks, and dump trucks, whether you’re a private carrier or a for-hire trucker.
- Specialized Coverages: Beyond standard liability, they offer essential protections like Motor Truck Cargo, Non-Trucking Liability (for when your drivers are off-duty), and Trailer Interchange insurance.
- Telematics Discounts: Programs like Smart Haul® and Snapshot ProView® use ELD data to reward safe driving with significant premium discounts. This aligns perfectly with your fleet safety goals and can directly impact your bottom line. You can explore other strategies to reduce truck insurance costs that complement these programs.
- Claims Service: A large, dedicated claims infrastructure means that when an incident occurs, you have access to experienced adjusters who understand the specifics of commercial trucking claims.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extensive trucking expertise and claims support | Rates can be higher for certain for-hire trucking operations |
| Online quotes and policy management are fast and convenient | Discount availability varies by state |
| Handles complex state and Federal regulatory filings for you | Pricing is highly dependent on your operating specifics |
| Telematics discounts reward safe driving and can lower premiums |
Ultimately, Progressive is one of the best trucking insurance companies because it combines the convenience of a modern digital platform with the comprehensive coverage and support required for complex trucking operations. Their ability to provide coverage for new trucking companies helps them edge out GWIC.
Website: Progressive Commercial Truck Insurance
Check out this video to see why commercial truck insurance rates are so high.
3. Great West Casualty Company — Commercial Truck Insurance
Great West Casualty Company has carved out a niche by focusing exclusively on the trucking industry. This singular focus allows the company to provide deeply specialized insurance products and support services tailored specifically for motor carriers. Unlike generalist insurers, Great West’s entire operation, from underwriting to claims and safety resources, is built around the unique risks and regulatory demands you face in the trucking world.
The company operates through a network of appointed agents, emphasizing a hands-on, consultative approach rather than a direct-to-consumer online model. This means you get a dedicated expert who understands your specific operation and can build a policy package that truly fits your needs. This high-touch service model is ideal for established carriers looking for a long-term insurance partner committed to your success and safety.
Key Features and Offerings
Great West’s platform is less about a self-service portal and more about providing comprehensive, expert-driven resources and coverage.
- Complete Trucking Coverage: The company offers a full suite of insurance products, including auto liability, physical damage, cargo, general liability, workers’ compensation, and excess liability coverage.
- Dedicated 24/7 Claims Service: Great West provides around-the-clock claims handling with professionals who are experts in trucking incidents. This specialized support ensures claims are managed efficiently and effectively, minimizing your downtime.
- Safety and Risk Control: A cornerstone of their offering is proactive safety and risk management support. They provide valuable resources and consulting to help you improve your safety programs, reduce accidents, and maintain regulatory compliance.
- Alternate Risk Programs: For larger, well-established carriers, Great West offers alternative risk solutions like deductibles and self-insured retentions, giving you more control over your insurance program and costs.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Deep specialization in trucking risks and regulations | No direct online quoting or purchasing; requires an agent |
| Robust, trucking-specific claims and safety support services | Better suited for established motor carriers than new ventures |
| Offers alternative risk programs for greater control | The agent-based model may be slower than direct online platforms |
| Strong reputation and financial stability in the industry |
For fleets prioritizing expert guidance and comprehensive support over digital convenience, Great West stands out as one of the best trucking insurance companies. Its dedicated focus ensures that every aspect of its service is aligned with the needs of the modern motor carrier.
Website: Great West Casualty Company
4. Northland Insurance — Commercial Truck Insurance
Northland is a carrier-direct trucking specialist backed by Travelers. They focus on commercial trucking lines, pair broad cargo options with dedicated transportation claims handling, and handle required FMCSA/state motor-carrier filings—making them a strong choice for owner-operators and for-hire fleets that want deep trucking expertise and fast support.
Key Features and Offerings
Great West’s platform is less about a self-service portal and more about providing comprehensive, expert-driven resources and coverage.
- Complete Trucking Coverage: Commercial auto liability, physical damage, motor truck cargo (Premier & Custom forms), truckers general liability.
- Service add-ons: Roadside assistance and towing “Deluxe” endorsement bundle
- Claims & filings: 24/7/365 claims reporting with transportation-savvy adjusters; prompt FMCSA and state motor-carrier filings (same-day when submitted by cutoff).
- Risk support: Risk control services for trucking, Transportation Legal Services, and Special Investigations Group (SIG).
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Carrier-direct trucking focus with specialized claims handling | Not sold direct—must work through appointed agents |
| Broad cargo options (Premier & Custom forms) | Better suited for established motor carriers than new ventures |
| Fast turnaround on State & federal motor-carrier filings | No instant online quote/bind workflow |
| Strong reputation and financial stability in the industry |
If you want a trucking-first insurer with strong cargo forms, true 24/7 claims access, and help keeping your authority in good standing through prompt filings, Northland is a great fit—especially for for-hire carriers and owner-operators that value carrier-direct expertise delivered through experienced trucking agents.
5. GEICO — Commercial Truck Insurance
Known for its direct-to-consumer model in personal auto insurance, GEICO brings a similar approach to the commercial trucking space. The platform is designed for accessibility, offering a straightforward quoting process for various truck types, from box trucks and semis to more specialized vehicles. This makes it a strong contender if you value a user-friendly digital experience backed by a major national brand with a massive customer service infrastructure.
GEICO’s strength lies in its streamlined online system combined with robust call-center support, providing you with multiple ways to manage your policy. It’s an excellent choice if your fleet includes a mix of vehicle types, as you can often manage different commercial vehicles under a single account. While GEICO handles standard liability and physical damage coverages well, it’s important to confirm they can manage the specific filings your operation requires, as you must meet all FMCSA insurance requirements to operate legally.
Key Features and Offerings
GEICO’s commercial platform focuses on simplicity and broad accessibility for common trucking operations.
- Diverse Vehicle Support: GEICO provides coverage for a wide range of trucks, including semi-trucks, box trucks, dump trucks, auto haulers, and refrigerated trucks.
- Integrated Quoting and Service: You can get a quote online in minutes and follow up with a licensed agent via their call center to finalize or adjust coverage.
- Unified Account Management: The platform allows you to manage different types of commercial vehicles under one policy, simplifying administration for mixed fleets.
- National Brand Support: As a policyholder, you get access to a large, established customer service and claims network, which can be a significant advantage when you need support.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| User-friendly digital quoting experience | Limited appetite for some high-risk or specialized trucking operations |
| Strong national brand with extensive customer service | Complex regulatory filings may require additional coordination |
| Broad coverage availability for common truck types | Pricing and eligibility can vary significantly by state and truck class |
| Ability to manage multiple vehicle types under one account |
Ultimately, GEICO is one of the best trucking insurance companies for those seeking a fast, no-nonsense digital experience from a trusted national insurer, especially for standard-risk operations.
Website: GEICO Commercial Truck Insurance
6. biBERK (a Berkshire Hathaway company) — Commercial Auto/Trucking
As a part of the renowned Berkshire Hathaway family, biBERK brings a direct-to-business insurance model to the commercial trucking space. The platform is designed for simplicity and speed, allowing small to medium-sized trucking operations to get quotes and purchase policies entirely online. By eliminating the traditional agent or broker, biBERK claims it can pass on savings of up to 20%, making it a compelling option if you are focused on managing costs without sacrificing quality.
biBERK stands out by combining the financial strength of its parent company with a streamlined, modern user experience. The process is transparent and fast, catering to tech-savvy owner-operators and fleet managers who prefer to handle their business needs digitally. While it focuses heavily on commercial auto, the platform also allows you to easily bundle other essential business coverages like general liability and workers’ compensation, simplifying your overall insurance management.
Key Features and Offerings
biBERK’s platform is built to provide straightforward insurance solutions with the backing of a major financial powerhouse.
- Direct-to-You Model: The online platform allows you to get a quote and bind your policy in minutes, removing middleman costs and complexities.
- Bundled Coverage Options: You can easily add other necessary policies such as General Liability, Workers’ Compensation, Business Owner’s Policy (BOP), and Umbrella insurance, creating a comprehensive insurance package.
- Strong Financial Backing: Being a Berkshire Hathaway company provides peace of mind that claims will be paid reliably, a crucial factor when your business is on the line. The company’s financial stability also means it can meet stringent standards like those needed for intermodal operations; you can learn more about the specifics of UIIA insurance requirements to see why this matters.
- Educational Resources: The website offers helpful guides and articles explaining complex topics like non-owned auto coverage, empowering you to make more informed decisions.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast, transparent, and direct online purchasing process | Certain long-haul or specialized trucking risks may not be eligible |
| Potential for significant cost savings over traditional agents | Less hands-on support for complex FMCSA or state filings |
| Ability to bundle multiple business insurance lines easily | Primarily designed for small to medium-sized fleets |
| Backed by the financial strength of Berkshire Hathaway |
Ultimately, biBERK is one of the best trucking insurance companies for businesses seeking a simple, cost-effective, and direct way to secure coverage. Its digital-first approach is ideal if you value convenience and the ability to manage your policies online. Berkshire Hathaway also has two other great trucking insurance entities, National Indemnity Company (NICO) and Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (BHHC) both provide truck insurance coverage to companies that have challenges securing coverage due to higher hazard operations or loss history challenges.
Website: biBERK Commercial Truck Insurance
7. OOIDA Truck Insurance (Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association)
Representing the unique needs of owner-operators and small fleets, the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) offers insurance programs that are as much about advocacy as they are about coverage. Their approach is fundamentally different from large, generalized insurers. OOIDA focuses exclusively on the segment of the industry that often needs the most guidance, providing policies designed for truckers, by an organization that fights for their rights in Washington, D.C.
OOIDA stands out because its insurance services are an extension of its core mission to support independent truckers. To access their insurance, you must be an OOIDA member, which ties you into a larger community of educational resources, business support, and industry advocacy. This model ensures you’re working with specialists who understand the difference between being leased to a carrier and operating under your own authority, making them a top choice for those navigating the complexities of independent trucking.
Key Features and Offerings
OOIDA’s platform is built around direct support and specialized knowledge rather than purely digital, self-service tools. This hands-on approach is ideal for owner-operators who prefer expert guidance.
- Owner-Operator Focus: All coverages are tailored for independent contractors, whether you are leased to a motor carrier or have your own authority. This includes specialized products like non-trucking liability and bobtail/unladen coverage.
- Member-Centric Support: The process involves speaking with trucking insurance specialists who can walk you through your specific needs, ensuring you don’t overpay for coverage you don’t need or miss critical protections.
- Comprehensive Coverage Options: OOIDA provides access to primary liability, motor truck cargo, physical damage, and passenger accident insurance, covering the essential needs of small trucking businesses.
- Integrated Advocacy and Education: Your membership provides access to a wealth of resources that help you run your business more effectively, from regulatory updates to cost-saving tips, making the insurance part of a holistic support system.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Decades of experience focused exclusively on owner-operators | Requires OOIDA membership and interaction with an agent |
| Accessible, personalized support from trucking specialists | No instant online quote or binding process |
| Strong advocacy and educational resources are part of the package | May not be the best fit for larger, more complex fleets |
| Deep expertise in niche coverages like bobtail and non-trucking |
OOIDA’s commitment to the individual trucker makes it one of the best trucking insurance companies for owner-operators who value expert guidance and industry support over a purely digital experience. Their model ensures you get the right policy backed by an organization that genuinely understands your business.
Website: OOIDA Truck Insurance
Top 7 Trucking Insurance Providers Comparison
| Provider | Implementation Complexity | Resource Requirements | Expected Outcomes | Ideal Use Cases | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Progressive Commercial — Truck Insurance | Moderate (online quoting and filings) | High (24/7 claims, risk control) | Broad coverage, possible premium discounts | Owner-operators, motor carriers, private carriers | Extensive trucking expertise, telematics discounts, regulatory filings support |
| Sentry Insurance — Transportation/Trucking | Higher (agent-based purchase) | High (dedicated safety and claims teams) | Customized trucking coverage and support | Established fleets, commercial trucking risks | Deep trucking focus, strong risk control and claims support |
| Great West Casualty Company — Commercial Truck Insurance | Higher (agent-only policies) | High (24/7 claims, risk control) | Comprehensive trucking coverage and safety | Motor carriers, established trucking companies | Strong specialization, alternate risk programs, 24/7 claims support |
| GEICO — Commercial Truck Insurance | Low (online quoting and servicing) | Moderate (call center support) | Competitive rates, broad truck coverage | Common truck types, small to mid-size fleets | User-friendly digital experience, national brand support |
| biBERK (Berkshire Hathaway) — Commercial Auto/Trucking | Low (fully online purchase) | Low to moderate (online tools) | Fast purchase, bundling options | Small businesses, commercial auto & trucking | Fast digital buying, multi-line bundling, strong financial backing |
| OOIDA Truck Insurance | Moderate-High (membership and agent) | Moderate (specialist support available) | Owner-operator focused coverage and advocacy | Owner-operators, leased authority trucks | Focused owner-operator support, advocacy, educational resources |
| Northland Insurance | Higher (agent-based purchase) | High (24/7 claims, risk control) | Broad coverage, solid Risk control | Motor carriers, established trucking companies | Deep trucking focus, strong risk control and claims support |
Making Your Final Decision and Driving Forward
Choosing your insurance partner is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make for your trucking business. We’ve explored some of the best trucking insurance companies, each offering a unique value proposition. From the digital-first convenience of Progressive to the deep industry specialization of Sentry Insurance, the right fit depends entirely on your specific operational needs, fleet size, and risk profile.
This decision isn’t just about finding the lowest premium; it’s about securing a partner who understands the realities of the road and provides a reliable safety net for your team, your equipment, and your business’s future. The ideal policy is a strategic asset, not just a line-item expense.
We don’t sell truck insurance, but we know many great truck insurance producers who would love to work with you. If you’re interested, we will gladly make a referral. Please contact us to get started!
Actionable Steps to Secure the Right Coverage
As you move toward a final decision, your focus should shift from general research to direct action. Taking a methodical approach now will save you from costly headaches later.
Here is a simple checklist to guide your next steps:
- Define Your Needs: Create a detailed list of your non-negotiable coverage requirements. Do you need trailer interchange insurance to satisfy the UIIA insurance requirements? What about non-trucking liability for owner-operators? Will a company provide a discount for having dash cams in your trucks? Knowing exactly what you need prevents you from overpaying for unnecessary add-ons or being underinsured in a critical area.
- Gather Your Documentation: Prepare all necessary documents ahead of time. This includes your MC/DOT numbers, driver MVRs, vehicle information (VINs, year, make, model), loss run reports from previous insurers, and details about your trucking company safety program. Being organized makes the quoting process faster and more accurate.
- Request Multiple Quotes: Have your insurance agent select your top three to four providers and request a formal quote from each. This is the only way to get a true side-by-side comparison of costs and coverage specifics tailored to your fleet. Many carriers, especially new ventures, won’t typically have access to the top tier companies like Sentry and Great West. But, working with these outstanding companies is something to aspire to.
- Analyze the Fine Print: A low premium can sometimes hide high deductibles or restrictive coverage limits. Look closely at the policy details. A slightly more expensive policy from a top-tier provider might offer significantly better protection and claims support when you need it most. This is especially true for motor truck cargo insurance coverage. Although its tempting to pay less attention to this critical coverage because it costs less than your auto liability or physical damage coverage, it is a critical policy. Your MTC policy can be viewed as protecting the relationship that you have with freight brokers and shippers as it provides coverage for their goods while in your possession. You can learn more about that in this article on the Carmack Amendment (which deals with freight loss and damage claims). Even more important, every cargo insurance policy can be different! So, it’s crucial that you (and your insurance agent) review the quotes, terms and conditions for important policy exclusions (like those related to cargo theft and reefer breakdown coverage).
Beyond the Policy: Building a Culture of Safety
Ultimately, the best trucking insurance companies want to partner with safe, well-managed fleets. Your insurance premium is a direct reflection of your risk profile, which is heavily influenced by your safety record, compliance history, and driver behavior. Proactively managing these elements is the most effective way to control your long-term insurance costs.
It’s crucial to understand how on-road events affect your bottom line. For instance, understanding the impact of traffic violations on trucking insurance rates highlights how a single speeding ticket can have lasting financial consequences. Investing in a robust safety and compliance program isn’t just about satisfying DOT regulations; it’s a direct investment in your company’s profitability and stability. By pairing the right insurance policy with a proactive approach to safety management, you create a powerful combination that protects your assets and positions your business for sustainable success on the open road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the main types of trucking insurance I need?
At a minimum, you’ll need Primary Auto Liability insurance to meet FMCSA requirements. Most businesses also need Physical Damage coverage to protect your trucks and trailers, Motor Truck Cargo insurance to cover the freight you’re hauling, and General Liability insurance for non-driving related risks like incidents at a loading dock.
How much does trucking insurance cost?
Costs vary widely based on factors like your operating radius, the type of cargo you haul, your fleet’s safety record (CSA scores), driver experience, and the coverage limits you choose. A new authority can expect to pay anywhere from $12,000 to over $20,000 per truck annually, while established carriers with good safety records will pay less.
How can I lower my trucking insurance premium?
You can lower your premium by maintaining a strong safety record, hiring experienced drivers with clean MVRs, implementing a robust safety program (including telematics), increasing your deductible, and shopping your policy with multiple carriers annually to ensure you’re getting a competitive rate.
What is Non-Trucking Liability insurance?
Non-Trucking Liability (NTL) insurance provides coverage for your truck when it’s being used for personal, non-business purposes. This is essential for owner-operators who are leased to a motor carrier, as the carrier’s primary liability policy only covers the truck when it’s being operated under their dispatch.
What is a BMC-91 or MCS-90 filing?
These are endorsements that your insurance company files with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to prove you have the required amount of liability insurance to operate legally. The MCS-90 guarantees payment for public liability claims, even if your policy wouldn’t normally cover it, ensuring the public is protected.
Ready to lower your risk profile and become the type of client that top insurance carriers want to partner with? Let My Safety Manager handle your DOT compliance and safety management, so you can focus on growing your business. Learn how My Safety Manager can help you build a best-in-class safety program today.
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