New authorities (under 2 years) pay more. This is the single biggest factor in your rate.
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Premium Estimator
Get a ballpark on your annual trucking insurance cost in 60 seconds. Real numbers from real market data — not vague "it depends" answers.
These are estimates based on market averages. Your actual quote may vary based on driving record, specific cargo, and carrier availability in your state.
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Trucks, tractors, or other power units you'll insure.
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This determines your physical damage premium. Financed trucks require physical damage coverage.
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Cargo type affects both your liability and cargo insurance rates.
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How far from your base do you typically operate?
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If yes, your lender requires physical damage coverage. If paid off, it's optional but recommended for trucks worth over $20K.
What Drives Your Trucking Insurance Cost
Authority Age
New authorities (under 2 years) pay 40-60% more than established carriers. Why? No claims history means higher risk to insurers. The good news: rates drop significantly at 1 year and again at 2 years.
Driving Record
Clean MVR = lower rates. Accidents, violations, and DUI/DWI can double your premium or make you uninsurable with preferred carriers. Your CDL history matters more than your personal driving record.
Cargo Type
Hauling cars costs more than hauling dirt. Hazmat costs more than general freight. The cargo affects both your liability exposure and cargo insurance rates. Refrigerated loads add spoilage risk.
Operating Radius
Local operations (under 100 miles) generally cost less than OTR. More highway miles = more accident exposure. But local operations with frequent stops have their own risks.
Truck Value
Physical damage coverage is based on your truck's value. A $150K truck costs more to insure than a $30K truck. If it's financed, your lender requires this coverage.
State & Location
Where you're domiciled matters. Some states have higher litigation costs, more congested highways, or more uninsured motorists. Texas, California, and Florida tend to run higher.
Common Questions About Trucking Insurance Costs
Can I get a cheaper quote going direct to Progressive?
No. The price is exactly the same whether you go through an agent or direct. The commission is built into the rate — you're paying it either way. Using an independent agent like RMS means you get someone who shops multiple carriers and actually explains your coverage. Same price, better service.
Why is new authority insurance so expensive?
Insurers have no claims data on you. You're an unknown risk. Statistically, new carriers have more accidents in their first two years. After you build clean history, rates drop — sometimes 20-30% at your first renewal. The carriers that write new authorities (Progressive, BHHC, Canal) know this is a higher-risk pool.
What's the absolute minimum insurance I need?
For-hire carriers with interstate authority need at minimum: $750,000 auto liability (FMCSA requirement), and practically speaking, $100,000 cargo insurance (most brokers require it). If your truck is financed, add physical damage. That's roughly $9,500-$17,000/year for a new authority with one truck.
Can I pay monthly?
Yes. Most carriers offer monthly payment plans. Typically you pay 20-30% down, then monthly installments. There's usually a small finance charge (around $5-10/month). Some carriers also offer EFT (electronic funds transfer) for a slight discount.
How do I lower my insurance cost?
Five real things that help: (1) Build clean driving history — no accidents, no violations. (2) Take a defensive driving course. (3) Install dash cams (some carriers give credits). (4) Increase your deductible on physical damage. (5) Shop at renewal — your first year is the most expensive. After that, you have options.