What Do Underwriters Look at When Quoting My Trucking Insurance?
Know the Score Before You Get Behind the Wheel
Shopping for trucking insurance can feel like a mystery—rates vary, terms shift, and sometimes you’re left wondering why one quote is double another. That’s where understanding underwriting comes in.
At Trucking IQ, we work with underwriters every day and know exactly what they’re looking for. Whether you’re a new authority or a seasoned fleet, here’s how underwriters evaluate risk—and what you can do to get the best rate possible.
📝 1. Your DOT History
Your SAFER score tells a story. Underwriters look at:
Crash history
Inspection violations
Out-of-service percentages
A clean, consistent record shows you take safety seriously—and leads to better premiums.
🔗 Check your DOT profile here
🚚 2. Vehicle Information
Age, type, and value of your trucks matter.
Older equipment with high mileage may trigger higher physical damage rates. Newer trucks with advanced safety tech can work in your favor.
Be ready to provide:
VINs
Current mileage
Maintenance records (if available)
👥 3. Driver Experience & Records
The people behind the wheel make or break your quote.
Underwriters check:
Years of CDL experience
Clean MVRs (Motor Vehicle Reports)
Any history of major violations or accidents
Pro tip: Keep your drivers on regular safety refreshers—it shows you’re proactive, not reactive.
🏢 4. Operation Type & Radius
Where you drive and what you haul changes everything.
Expect to be asked about:
Commodities (hazmat, reefer, flatbed, etc.)
Haul radius (local, regional, OTR)
If you’re for-hire or private carrier
Different risks = different rates. The clearer you are, the more accurate the quote.
📦 5. Coverage Limits & Requirements
Do brokers or contracts require specific cargo limits?
Do you lease-on or operate under your own authority?
Be ready to share what kind of protection you need:
Auto Liability
Cargo Insurance
Physical Damage
Non-Owned Trailer
General Liability (if needed)
The more details, the smoother the quoting process.
💡 6. Prior Insurance & Claims History
Loyalty and loss ratios speak volumes.
Underwriters want to know:
How long you’ve held prior policies
If there were gaps in coverage
Any recent claims (and what caused them)
Got a past claim? Own it. Provide context, corrective actions, and proof you’ve tightened up operations.
📈 Final Thoughts from Trucking IQ
Underwriters aren’t just crunching numbers—they’re evaluating risk, trust, and reliability. If you know what they’re looking for, you can position your business to get the best coverage at the best price.
At Trucking IQ, we bridge the gap between truckers and underwriters. Whether you’re quoting your first truck or your 50th, we’ll guide you through every step.
🚛 Want a Smoother Quote Process?
Let us help you put your best foot forward with clean submissions, strong carrier relationships, and the industry know-how to protect your business.
📞 Call us today
🌐 Visit us at www.trucking-iq.com
📩 Request a Custom Quote