Charter Bus Business Insurance Quote Checklist for Bus Owners
- Feb 12
- 2 min read
Getting an accurate charter bus business insurance quote requires more than just sharing your vehicle count. Insurance carriers evaluate risk carefully in the passenger transportation industry, and missing information can delay coverage or increase premiums. Whether you operate locally or across state lines, this checklist will help you prepare and secure the right protection for your fleet.

1. Confirm Your Operating Authority and Compliance
Before requesting a quote, ensure your business complies with federal and state regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires passenger carriers transporting 16 or more passengers to maintain at least $5 million in liability coverage.
You should also verify your USDOT and MC numbers, safety ratings, and filing requirements. Reviewing your status through the FMCSA SAFER system can help prevent underwriting delays.
2. Gather Detailed Fleet Information
Insurance companies will request specific details about each vehicle, including:
Year, make, and model
Passenger capacity
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Current market value
Radius of operation
If you operate motor coaches, mini buses, or school charter services, be prepared to clarify how each vehicle is used. Usage type significantly impacts your commercial transportation insurance rates.
3. Prepare Driver Information
Your drivers represent one of the biggest risk factors in charter bus insurance underwriting. Carriers typically request:
Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs)
Years of commercial driving experience
CDL classification and endorsements
Accident and violation history
Strong hiring practices and documented safety programs can positively influence your insurance quote.
4. Review Your Claims and Loss History
Underwriters will examine your past three to five years of claims history. Be ready to provide loss runs from your current or previous insurer. Maintaining a strong safety record can significantly lower your charter bus insurance premium.
For best practices on transportation risk management, resources like the National Safety Council offer guidance on fleet safety improvements.
5. Identify Coverage Needs
A comprehensive policy for bus operators often includes:
Physical Damage Coverage
Knowing your desired limits before requesting a quote speeds up the process and ensures accurate pricing.
Work With a Transportation Insurance Specialist
Because passenger transportation insurance is highly specialized, partnering with an experienced agency matters. Wexford Insurance works directly with charter bus and motor coach operators to structure policies that meet FMCSA requirements while remaining competitively priced.
If you’re reviewing your coverage or launching a new charter operation, now is the time to request a customized charter bus business insurance quote from Wexford Insurance. Our team understands the unique risks of the transportation industry and can guide you through compliance, filings, and coverage options.
Protect your fleet, drivers, and passengers with the right insurance partner.
👉 Request a free charter bus insurance quote from Wexford Insurance today.

