How to Get Approved as an Oilfield Hauling Vendor for Major Operators
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Becoming an approved oilfield hauling vendor is one of the biggest milestones for trucking companies in the oil and gas industry. Major operators don’t just look at pricing—they evaluate insurance coverage, safety programs, compliance documentation, and risk management practices before awarding contracts.
In 2026, approval standards are more rigorous than ever. Understanding what operators expect can significantly improve your chances of getting approved—and staying approved.
Step 1: Understand Operator Vendor Requirements
Most major oil & gas operators require hauling vendors to submit detailed documentation, including:
Company background and operating history
DOT and FMCSA compliance records
Safety manuals and driver training programs
Certificates of insurance meeting strict limits
Operators want assurance that your company can operate safely while minimizing financial and environmental risk.
Step 2: Carry the Right Insurance Coverage
Insurance is one of the most common approval roadblocks. Operators typically require multiple policies—not just commercial auto.
Commonly required insurance includes:
Commercial Auto Insurance – Covers trucks, trailers, and liability
General Liability Insurance – Covers non-vehicle related injuries or property damage
Environmental / Pollution Liability Insurance – Covers spills, leaks, and contamination
Cargo Insurance – Protects hauled materials such as crude oil, water, or chemicals
Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Required for drivers and field personnel
Limits often range from $1M to $5M, with additional insured endorsements and waivers of subrogation.
Step 3: Build a Strong Safety & Compliance Program
Operators closely review safety performance. To improve approval odds:
Implement driver qualification files (DQFs)
Conduct regular vehicle inspections
Maintain drug & alcohol testing programs
Track incident reporting and corrective actions
Strong safety records can reduce insurance premiums and make your company more attractive to operators.
Step 4: Prepare for Vendor Audits
Many operators conduct audits before approval. These reviews often include:
Insurance compliance verification
Safety manual reviews
Driver record evaluations
Environmental risk assessments
Failing an audit can delay approval by months—even if your pricing is competitive.
Why Choose Wexford Insurance
Wexford Insurance specializes in helping oilfield hauling companies meet major operator requirements. We work with carriers that insure oil & gas transportation businesses nationwide and help you secure:
Operator-compliant insurance limits
Proper endorsements and certificates
Coverage tailored to your hauling type
Our goal is to help you get approved faster and stay contract-ready.
