Should I Carry Excess Coverage?
How to Decide if Higher Limits Make Sense for Your Fleet
You’ve got your primary trucking insurance in place—liability, cargo, physical damage. But is that enough? One serious claim can blow right through your standard policy limits and leave you paying out of pocket. That’s where excess coverage comes in.
At Trucking IQ, we help truckers protect what they’ve built—without overpaying for coverage they don’t need. Here’s how to know if excess liability is a smart move for your operation.
🧱 1. What Is Excess Liability?
Excess coverage, sometimes called an umbrella, kicks in when a claim is larger than your primary liability limit.
Example: If your policy covers up to $1 million but you’re sued for $2 million, excess pays the difference (up to the limit you choose).
💥 2. Why Does It Matter for Truckers?
Trucking claims can get expensive—fast. A serious accident with injuries, multiple vehicles, or environmental damage can easily exceed minimum liability requirements.
Brokers and shippers often require higher limits, too. Want those big contracts? You may need excess to qualify.
💡 3. Who Really Needs It?
Consider excess coverage if you:
Haul high-value or hazardous loads
Operate in litigious states
Have contracts with larger shippers or brokers
Run a fleet with multiple units on the road daily
📈 4. How Much Is Enough?
Many owner-operators stick with $1–2 million excess. Larger fleets often carry $5 million or more, depending on customer requirements.
Pro tip: Don’t just guess—review your contracts. Some customers or brokers may require specific minimums.
💵 5. Is It Expensive?
Excess liability is generally affordable compared to primary coverage. It’s a cost-effective way to boost protection without doubling your entire policy cost.
🧰 6. How Do I Get It?
Most reputable trucking insurance providers can add excess to your package. Be ready to share:
Fleet size
Operation type
Existing coverage
Safety record and loss runs
A clean record and clear info help you lock in better rates.
🧠 Final Thoughts from Trucking IQ
Trucking is risky business—and every mile comes with surprises. Excess liability is peace of mind for when the unexpected happens. If you’re hauling high stakes, higher coverage limits could save your business down the road.
At Trucking IQ, we break down your options, shop competitive markets, and help you decide what makes sense for your operation.
🚛 Ready to Talk Coverage?
Our team will help you find the sweet spot—strong protection, smart limits, and a premium you can live with.
📞 Call us today
🌐 Visit us at www.trucking-iq.com
📩 Request a Custom Quote