Required Box Trucking Insurance Coverage for Commercial Truck Owners
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Operating a box truck for commercial purposes requires more than reliable equipment and steady contracts—it requires the right box trucking insurance coverage to stay compliant and protect your business from financial loss. Whether you haul goods locally or across state lines, understanding mandatory insurance requirements is critical for long-term success.
Below is a breakdown of the required box truck insurance coverage commercial truck owners must carry.
Primary Liability Insurance (Required by Law)
Primary liability insurance is mandatory for all commercial truck operators. This coverage pays for bodily injury and property damage if you are at fault in an accident.
For interstate motor carriers, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets minimum liability limits depending on the type of freight transported. You can review federal insurance requirements directly through the FMCSA website:
Most box truck operators typically need a minimum of $750,000 in liability coverage, though many brokers and contracts require $1,000,000 in coverage to secure higher-paying loads.
Motor Truck Cargo Insurance
While not always federally mandated, motor truck cargo insurance is often contractually required. Shippers and freight brokers want assurance that the goods being transported are protected in case of theft, damage, or loss.
Cargo insurance limits typically range from $100,000 to $250,000 depending on the freight type.
Physical Damage Coverage
If you finance or lease your box truck, lenders will require physical damage coverage, which includes:
Collision coverage
Comprehensive coverage (theft, vandalism, fire, weather damage)
Even if not required by law, this coverage is highly recommended to protect your truck investment.
General liability coverage protects your business from claims not directly related to driving. For example, if a customer is injured at your business location or during loading/unloading, this policy may provide coverage.
Many commercial contracts require general liability in addition to primary auto liability.
If you operate under a motor carrier and use your truck for personal reasons when not dispatching, non-trucking liability insurance may be necessary to ensure continuous protection.
Why Proper Coverage Matters
Failing to carry required commercial truck insurance can result in fines, suspended operating authority, contract termination, and major financial exposure. Beyond legal compliance, the right insurance safeguards your livelihood and business growth.
Working with a specialist who understands transportation risk is essential. At Wexford Insurance, we help commercial truck owners secure compliant, cost-effective box trucking insurance tailored to their operation. Whether you’re an owner-operator or managing a fleet, our team compares multiple carriers to find the right coverage at competitive rates.
Protect your investment and stay compliant.
👉 Request a box truck insurance quote from Wexford Insurance today.
