Top Equipment Oilfield Contractors Need to Start Working Immediately

Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
6 days ago
2 min read

Starting an oilfield contracting business requires more than skilled labor—it demands the right equipment to meet operator requirements, maintain safety standards, and begin generating revenue quickly. Whether you’re launching a new oilfield service company or expanding operations, having the correct equipment in place can be the difference between winning contracts or missing opportunities.

At Wexford Insurance we help oilfield contractors across the nation insure their equipment, vehicles, and crews so they can start working immediately—without unnecessary delays or uncovered risks.

1. Work Trucks & Commercial Vehicles

Reliable trucks are the backbone of most oilfield operations. Common requirements include:

Heavy-duty pickup trucks
Flatbeds and service trucks
Water or fuel trucks (for specialized services)

Because oilfield vehicles operate in high-risk environments, commercial auto insurance is often required by operators before you’re allowed on-site. Many contracts also mandate higher liability limits.

2. Heavy Equipment & Machinery

Depending on your service line, essential equipment may include:

Skid steers and loaders
Excavators or backhoes
Forklifts and telehandlers
Winches and hoisting equipment

This equipment represents a significant investment. Contractor’s equipment insurance (also called inland marine insurance) helps protect against theft, damage, or

loss—whether equipment is on a jobsite or in transit.

3. Oilfield Tools & Specialized Gear

Smaller tools are just as critical for immediate operations, including:

Pipe handling tools
Pressure testing equipment
Welding and cutting tools
Power tools and compressors

These tools are often excluded from standard property policies, making specialized coverage essential for oilfield contractors.

4. Safety Equipment & PPE

Operators expect contractors to arrive fully compliant with safety standards. Required safety equipment often includes:

Flame-resistant (FR) clothing
Hard hats, gloves, and eye protection
Gas monitors and fire extinguishers
Spill containment kits

According to OSHA, proper PPE is mandatory in hazardous work environments like oilfields. Failure to comply can result in shutdowns—or lost contracts.

5. Environmental & Spill Response Equipment

Environmental risk is a major concern in oil & gas operations. Contractors may need:

Spill kits
Absorbent materials
Containment berms

These tools not only help protect the environment but also reduce exposure to costly pollution claims, which may require pollution liability insurance.

Why Insurance Matters Before You Start

Even with the right equipment, many oilfield contractors can’t begin work until insurance certificates meet operator requirements. Wexford Insurance specializes in helping oilfield businesses secure: