Different Types of Commercial Trucks and Insurance Coverage

Commercial trucks play a crucial role in various industries, transporting goods and ensuring the smooth flow of commerce. From small delivery vans to massive tractor-trailers, these commercial vehicles come in different shapes and sizes to cater to diverse transportation needs.

Given their significance, it is essential for truck owners and operators to have a comprehensive understanding of the insurance coverage options available to protect their valuable assets and mitigate potential risks. In this article, we will explore the different types of commercial trucks and delve into the intricacies of cheap commercial auto insurance specific to this industry.

Types of Commercial Trucks

1. Delivery Trucks

Delivery trucks, also known as cargo vans, are commonly used for local deliveries, courier services, and small-scale transportation for a trucking company. These versatile vehicles are suitable for transporting packages, parcels, and other small cargo loads efficiently.

Delivery trucks usually have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)The maximum total safe weight of a vehicle, including cargo and passengers, as specified by the manu... below 26,001 pounds, making them exempt from certain federal regulations. Insurance coverage for delivery trucks typically includes liability insuranceCoverage that protects against claims resulting from injuries and damage to people and/or property. and physical damage coverageOften bundled with NTL, this covers damage to the truck itself when not in commercial use. to protect against accidents and damage to the vehicle.

2. FlatbedA type of trucking trailer without sides, used by motor carriers for transporting oversized loads or... Trucks

Flatbed trucks feature an open, flat platform without sides or a roof, allowing for easy loadingAn additional cost built into the insurance premium to cover losses that are higher than expected fr... and unloading of various types of cargo. These trucks are often used to transport construction materials, heavy equipment, and oversized loads. Due to their unique design and the nature of the cargo they carry, flatbed trucks require specialized insurance coverage.

Alongside primary liability insuranceThe main auto liability coverage that protects against injuries or damage to other people or propert..., flatbed truck owners should consider additional coverage for cargo, physical damage, and general liabilityA financial obligation or debt owed by an individual or business to another entity, typically result....

3. Box Trucks

Box trucks, also referred to as cube vans or straight trucks, are enclosed vehicles with a box-shaped cargo area. They are commonly used for local deliveries, furniture transport, and moving services. Box trucks offer protection from the elements, ensuring the cargo remains secure and intact during transportation.

Commercial trucking insurance coverage for box trucks typically includes primary liability insurance, physical damage coverage, and cargo insuranceInsurance that covers loss or damage to freight during transit, which is critical for motor carriers... to safeguard the goods being transported.

4. Refrigerated Trucks

Refrigerated trucks, often known as “reefers,” are equipped with refrigeration units to transport temperature-sensitive goods, such as perishable foods, pharmaceuticals, and flowers. Maintaining the required temperature range is crucial to preserve the integrity of the cargo. 

Refrigerated truck insurance coverage includes primary liability insurance, physical damage coverage, and specialized cargo insurance to protect against spoilage or damage due to temperature fluctuations.

5. Dump Trucks

Dump trucks are primarily used for hauling loose materials, such as sand, gravel, or construction debris. These trucks feature an open-box bed that can be tilted to unload the cargo quickly.

Given the nature of their work, dump trucks face unique risks, including accidents during loading and unloading, damage caused by falling debris, and potential environmental liabilities. Insurance coverage for dump trucks typically includes primary liability insurance, physical damage coverage, and pollution liabilityProvides coverage for claims related to environmental damage caused by pollutants released during th... coverage.

6. Tanker Trucks

Tanker trucks are designed to transport liquids or gases, such as fuel, chemicals, and bulk liquids. Due to the hazardous nature of the cargo they carry, tanker trucks require specialized insurance coverage to address the increased risks involved. Insurance options for tanker trucks include primary liability insurance, physical damage coverage, cargo insurance specific to the transported liquids, and pollution liability coverage.

7. Tow Trucks

Tow trucks, also known as wreckers, are used to tow or recover disabled or illegally parked vehicles. These trucks play a crucial role in roadside assistance and vehicle recoveryThe amount recovered by an insurance company from a third party responsible for causing damage to th... services. Insurance coverage for tow trucks includes primary liability insurance, physical damage coverage for the tow truck itself, on-hook coverage to protect the vehicle being towed, and garage liability coverage if the towing company operates a storage lot.

8. Semi-Trucks (Tractor-Trailers)

Semi-trucks, also called tractor-trailers or 18-wheelers, are large vehicles used for long-haul transportation of goods. These trucks consist of a tractorA powerful motor vehicle designed primarily to pull trailers in commercial trucking operations. unit that pulls one or more trailers. Given their size, complexity, and the high-value cargo they often transport, insurance coverage for semi-trucks is comprehensive.

It includes primary liability insurance, physical damage coverage for the truck and trailer, cargo insurance, and often additional coverage for motor truck cargo liabilityAlthough separate from primary liability, it's crucial for truckers as it covers the goods transport..., bobtailThe act of driving a tractor without a trailer attached, commonly done by truck drivers when returni... liability, and general liability.

Commercial Truck Insurance Coverage

Commercial truck insurance in California aims to protect truck owners and operators from various risks associated with their operations. Understanding the different types of coverage available is crucial when selecting a cheap trucking insurance policyA contract between an insurance company and the policyholder, which outlines the terms under which t... that aligns with your specific needs. Let’s explore some of the primary insurance coverage options for commercial trucks:

Primary Liability Insurance

Primary liability insurance is the foundational coverage that is required by law for all commercial trucks operating on public roads. It provides protection against bodily injury and property damageInsurance coverage that pertains to damage or destruction of buildings, vehicles, and other physical... claims resulting from accidents where the insured truck is at fault.

Primary liability insurance covers the medical expenses, property repair costs, and legal fees incurred as a result of such accidents. It is important to note that primary liability insurance typically does not cover damage to the insured truck itself.

Physical Damage Insurance

Physical damage insurance covers the repair or replacement costs for the insured truck in the event of damage resulting from collisions, accidents, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. This coverage ensures that the truck owner does not bear the full financial burden of repairing or replacing a damaged or totaled vehicle.

Physical damage insurance is typically divided into two components: collision coveragePart of physical damage insurance that covers damage to a truck from a collision with another vehicl..., which pays for damages resulting from collisions with other vehicles or objects, and comprehensive coverageProtects against damages to a truck from non-collision-related incidents such as theft, fire, vandal..., which covers damages caused by incidents other than collisions.

Cargo Insurance

Motor truck cargo insuranceInsurance that covers the transporter for their responsibility in the event of damaged or lost freig... provides coverage for the goods being transported by the insured truck. It protects against loss or damage to the cargo due to accidents, theft, fire, or other covered perils. Cargo insurance is essential for truck owners and operators who transport valuable or sensitive cargo, as it provides financial protection and peace of mind in case of unforeseen events. The coverage amount and specific terms of cargo insurance may vary based on the type of cargo being transported and the policy limits.

Bobtail InsuranceSpecifically covers the liability of a truck when it is driven without a trailer, typically after de...

Bobtail insurance covers liability when a truck is operated without a trailer or while not under dispatch. It protects the truck and driver during non-business use, such as commuting or personal errands. Bobtail insurance is especially relevant for owner-operators who may use their trucks for personal purposes when not engaged in commercial operations.

This coverage ensures that the truck and driver are protected from potential liabilities even when not actively transporting cargo.

General Liability InsuranceCoverage that protects trucking companies from financial loss due to liabilities incurred from prope...

General liability insurance provides coverage for non-trucking-related liabilities that may arise from the operation of a commercial truck. It protects the truck owner or operator from third-party claims related to bodily injury, property damage, or personal injuryLegal liability for injury other than bodily injury, including false arrest, detention or imprisonme... that may occur during the course of business operations.

General liability insurance, as well as non-trucking liability coverage, is important for commercial trucking businesses as it offers comprehensive protection beyond the scope of primary liability coverage.

Occupational Accident InsuranceInsurance coverage that provides benefits to employees for work-related injuries or illnesses, inclu...

Occupational accident insurance provides coverage for work-related injuries or accidents involving truck drivers who are classified as independent contractors rather than employees. This insurance compensates for medical expenses, disability benefits, and other associated costs resulting from covered accidents or injuries.

Occupational accident insurance offers protection for independent truck drivers who may not have access to traditional workers’ compensationA form of insurance providing wage replacement and medical benefits to employees injured in the cour... coverage.

Choosing the Right Insurance Coverage

When selecting insurance coverage for commercial trucks, it is crucial to consider the specific needs and risks associated with your operations. Each type of truck and its corresponding cargo require tailored coverage to ensure comprehensive protection. To choose the right insurance coverage, consider factors such as the nature of your business, the types of cargo you transport, the distance you travel, and the regulatory requirements in your region.

Consulting with a reliable insurance company who specializes in commercial trucking can help you navigate the complexities of insurance and make informed decisions! At SoCal Truck Insurance, we will work closely with you to find the best commercial trucking insurance based on your unique needs. Get in touch with us today for a free quote!