Motor truck cargo insurance.
Cargo coverage pays for the freight in your care when it's damaged, destroyed or stolen. It's one of the first things a broker checks before they tender you a load.
Where cargo claims get denied
Two cargo policies with the same $100,000 limit can pay out very differently. The difference is in the exclusions and conditions, and most drivers don't see them until a claim is denied.
These are the ones we walk through with every client before they bind.
- Unattended vehicle conditionsSome policies limit theft coverage when the truck is left unattended, or only in certain kinds of parking.
- Reefer breakdownSpoiled refrigerated freight usually needs a reefer breakdown endorsement. Without it, a failed unit isn't covered.
- Excluded commoditiesElectronics, alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals and other high-theft freight are often excluded or limited.
- Scheduled equipmentCoverage may only apply to the trucks and trailers listed on the policy. Add new equipment before you haul with it.
- Limit per loadIf a load is worth more than your limit, you pay the difference. Know your limit before you book high-value freight.
- Loading and packingDamage from improper loading or packaging may be excluded, depending on who loaded the trailer.
Three steps. No jargon.
Tell us what you haul
Your main commodities, your highest-value load, and whether you run reefer, dry van or flatbed.
We match the exclusions to your freight
We look for a policy that actually covers what you haul, not just one with the right limit on the certificate.
Certificates for brokers
Once you bind, email us the broker's details and we'll send the certificate they need.
How much cargo coverage do you need?
$100,000 is the norm
It's the limit most brokers and shippers ask for. For a lot of general freight, it's enough.
Match your highest-value load
If you haul electronics, metals or other high-value freight, your limit should cover the most expensive load you take, not the average one.
Ask about the deductible
A higher deductible lowers your premium, but you pay it on every claim. Pick one you could cover out of pocket next week.
What owner-operators ask us
Is cargo insurance required by law?
For most general freight, no. The FMCSA requires cargo coverage for household goods movers. Everyone else carries it because brokers and shippers require it before they'll load you.
Does cargo insurance cover spoiled refrigerated loads?
Only if your policy includes reefer breakdown coverage. Make sure it's on your policy if you pull a reefer.
What happens if the load is worth more than my limit?
The policy pays up to your limit and you're responsible for the rest. If a broker offers you a high-value load, check your limit first, or call us about raising it.
I'm leased on. Do I need my own cargo coverage?
Many motor carriers provide cargo coverage for their leased owner-operators, but some charge back the deductible or require you to carry your own. Check your lease, or send it to us and we'll look.
Can you add a broker as a certificate holder?
Yes. Email the broker's name and contact to info@merrillagency.com and we'll get the certificate out.
More coverage for owner-operators
New authority insurance
Specialty markets that write first-year carriers, plus your FMCSA filings.
Learn more →Leased-on owner-operators
What your carrier covers, and what's still on you.
Learn more →Bobtail & non-trucking liability
Coverage for when you're off dispatch and your carrier's policy stops.
Learn more →Commercial Truck Insurance
Liability, cargo, physical damage and more for owner-operators and small fleets.
See all trucking coverage →Get your truck quote started.
Licensed in Illinois and Indiana. A licensed trucking agent reviews every request.