Trucking Insurance Resources

Bobtail insurance (also called Non-Trucking Liability or NTL) covers your truck when you're NOT under dispatch or hauling freight for your motor carrier. This includes driving empty to pick up a load, returning home after delivery, or personal use.

You need it if:

• You're a leased owner-operator (usually required by lease agreement)
• You operate under your own authority
• You use your truck for personal transportation

Most lease agreements require at least $300,000 - $500,000 in bobtail coverage.

FMCSA Minimum Requirements:

• Non-hazmat freight: $750,000 minimum
• Hazmat freight: $1,000,000 to $5,000,000 depending on materials

Shipper/Broker Requirements:

Most shippers and brokers require at least $1,000,000 in liability coverage, regardless of FMCSA minimums.

Recommended Limits:

For most long-haul operations, we recommend $1,000,000 to $2,000,000 in liability coverage to ensure adequate protection and meet shipper requirements.

For the most accurate quote, have this information ready:

• Business info: DOT/MC numbers, years in business, garaging state
• Operation details: Radius/lanes, commodities hauled, annual miles
• Equipment: Number of trucks/trailers, year/make/model, values
• Driver info: Number of drivers, experience levels
• Current coverage: Existing policy details, loss runs (if available)

For complete submissions with all required information, we typically provide quotes within 24 hours. Many quotes are delivered the same day if submitted before noon EST.

Factors that may affect timing:

• New authorities (less than 6 months) may require additional underwriting
• Specialized commodities or equipment may need carrier review
• Incomplete information will delay the process

For fastest service, call us directly at (614) 974-6067.