Different Types of Commercial Trucks and Insurance CoverageBlog / Written by: Peco Truck Insurance

   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 Trucks1. Delivery TrucksDelivery 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) below 26,001 pounds, making them exempt from certain federal regulations. Insurance coverage for delivery trucks typically includes liability insurance and physical damage coverage to protect against accidents and damage to the vehicle.

2. Flatbed TrucksFlatbed trucks feature an open, flat platform without sides or a roof, allowing for easy loading 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 insurance, flatbed truck owners should consider additional coverage for cargo, physical damage, and general liability.

3. Box TrucksBox 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 insurance to safeguard the goods being transported.

4. Refrigerated TrucksRefrigerated 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 TrucksDump 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 liability coverage.

6. Tanker TrucksTanker 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 TrucksTow 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 recovery 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 tractor 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 liability, bobtail liability, and general liability.

Commercial Truck Insurance CoverageCommercial truck insurance 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 policy that aligns with your specific needs. Let’s explore some of the primary insurance coverage options for commercial trucks:

Primary Liability InsurancePrimary liability insurance is the foundational coverage required by law for all commercial trucks operating on public roads. It provides protection against bodily injury and property damage claims resulting from accidents where the insured truck is at fault.
Primary liability insurance covers medical expenses, property repair costs, and legal fees incurred as a result of such accidents. It typically does not cover damage to the insured truck itself.

Physical Damage InsurancePhysical damage insurance covers repair or replacement costs for the insured truck in the event of damage resulting from collisions, accidents, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
This includes:

• Collision coverage — damage from collisions
• Comprehensive coverage — damage from non-collision incidents

Cargo InsuranceMotor truck cargo insurance provides coverage for the goods being transported. It protects against loss or damage due to accidents, theft, fire, or other covered perils. Cargo insurance is essential for operators transporting valuable or sensitive cargo.
Coverage varies by:

• Cargo type
• Value
• Policy limits

Bobtail InsuranceBobtail insurance covers liability when a truck is operated without a trailer or when not under dispatch. This is crucial for owner-operators who use their trucks for personal errands or non-business purposes.

General Liability InsuranceGeneral liability insurance provides protection for non-trucking-related liabilities, including:

• Bodily injury
• Property damage
• Personal injury claims

This extends beyond what primary liability covers.

Occupational Accident InsuranceOccupational accident insurance offers financial protection for independent truck drivers who are not covered by workers’ compensation. It compensates for medical expenses, disability, and related costs from work-related injuries.

Choosing the Right Insurance CoverageWhen selecting insurance coverage for commercial trucks, it is important to evaluate:

• The nature of your business
• Types of cargo
• Distance traveled
• State & federal regulations
• Your risk exposure

Working with a reliable truck insurance company ensures you get the proper mix of coverage for your business operations.
At Peco Truck Insurance, we 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!

Peco Truck InsurancePeco Truck Insurance has been protecting people, their possessions, and their businesses for 20 years. Since then we have insured hundreds of thousands with hundreds of plans, rates, and specials.
          

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