How to Get Your First Oilfield Hauling Contract (Beginner’s Blueprint)
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Breaking into the oilfield hauling industry can be challenging—but with the right strategy, safety compliance, and insurance coverage, you can secure your first contract in 2026 and build a foundation for long-term growth.
This beginner’s blueprint covers the essential steps, insurance requirements, and operator expectations to help you start hauling successfully.
Step 1: Understand Operator Requirements
Before approaching major operators, it’s essential to know what they look for in hauling vendors. Typical requirements include:
Proof of insurance coverage (commercial auto, general liability, cargo, pollution liability, workers’ compensation)
Safety programs and driver qualifications
DOT and FMCSA compliance
Equipment specifications (trucks, tankers, vacuum trailers)
Operators prioritize vendors who can demonstrate reliability, safety, and financial responsibility.
Step 2: Secure the Right Insurance Coverage
Insurance is one of the most common hurdles for new trucking companies. Essential policies include:
Commercial Auto Insurance – Covers trucks and trailers
General Liability Insurance – Protects against on-site incidents or third-party damage
Cargo Insurance – Protects transported materials such as crude, chemicals, or water
Environmental / Pollution Liability Insurance – Covers spills or contamination
Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Required for drivers and field personnel
Having these policies in place demonstrates professionalism and compliance, making operators more likely to award your first contract.
Step 3: Build a Safety & Compliance Program
Operators want vendors with documented safety programs. Steps include:
Driver qualification files (DQFs) with training and background checks
Vehicle inspections and maintenance logs
Safety manuals and emergency response procedures
Insurers often reward companies with robust safety programs through lower premiums, which helps startups stay cost-effective.
Step 4: Target the Right Contracts
New oilfield hauling companies should focus on:
Smaller operators or regional vendors to gain initial experience
Contracts that match your equipment and hauling capacity
Building relationships through networking, referrals, or industry associations
Once you complete your first successful contract, you can leverage that experience and insurance compliance record for larger operator approvals.
Step 5: Present a Professional Bid Package
Include in your bid package:
Proof of insurance and endorsements
Safety programs and driver documentation
DOT compliance records
References or past hauling experience
Professionalism increases your chances of being approved quickly and can help accelerate operator onboarding.
Why Choose Wexford Insurance
Wexford Insurance specializes in helping oilfield trucking startups secure the coverage needed to win contracts. We provide:
Policies for all hauling types and exposures
Operator-compliant certificates and endorsements
Guidance to align insurance with your growth strategy
