Motor Truck Cargo Insurance Basics

Cargo coverage is designed around damage, theft, or loss of freight while it is in your care, custody, or control. The exact coverage depends on the policy form and endorsements.

The cargo limit should match what you haul. General freight, reefer, car hauling, flatbed, and higher-value freight can all create different underwriting questions.

A carrier may be comfortable with dry goods but more careful with refrigerated loads, autos, electronics, or specialized freight.

If a broker requires a certain limit, bring that requirement into the quote conversation early so the policy can be structured around the real contract need.

Have the cargo type, typical load value, requested limit, radius, garaging, and any broker contract requirements ready.

If you haul multiple commodities, list them clearly. Underwriters do not like vague descriptions when cargo exposure is involved.