Commercial Auto Insurance
Is Cargo and Materials in Transit Covered by Commercial Auto?
No — cargo and materials in transit are not covered by commercial auto. Motor truck cargo insurance or inland marine coverage is needed for the goods you haul.
Does commercial auto cover materials and cargo I’m hauling?
Commercial auto covers the vehicle and your liability for accidents. It doesn’t insure the value of goods, materials, or equipment being transported. A load of lumber, HVAC equipment, or customer materials damaged in an accident would not be covered by your commercial auto policy.
Motor truck cargo insurance covers goods you’re transporting — essential if you’re hauling materials for clients or under contract to deliver specific items. Inland marine coverage handles contractor’s tools and equipment while in transit.
The distinction matters: if you damage someone else’s property loaded on your truck (liability), commercial auto covers it. If your own materials are damaged, you need cargo/inland marine coverage.
Ready to compare rates?
Trade Safe shops dozens of A-rated carriers to find the right commercial auto coverage for your contracting business.