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Hot Shot Truck Insurance

Insurance for hot shot trucking operations running expedited freight on gooseneck and flatbed trailers.

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What It Covers

  • Commercial auto liability for hot shot trucks and trailers
  • Cargo insurance for expedited and time-sensitive freight
  • Physical damage for your truck and gooseneck trailer
  • Non-trucking liability coverage
  • Equipment and load securement coverage
  • Hired and non-owned auto liability

Who Needs This Coverage

Hot shot operators running Class 3-5 trucks (Ford F-350, Ram 3500, etc.) with gooseneck or bumper-pull trailers. Whether you are hauling oilfield equipment, machinery, or LTL freight on expedited timelines, you need commercial trucking coverage, not personal auto.

Avg Fleet Size

1-10 trucks

Common Cargo

Oilfield equipment, machinery, LTL freight, auto parts

Typical Coverage Package

  • Primary Liability ($750K-$1M)
  • Physical Damage (Comprehensive + Collision)
  • Motor Cargo ($100K+)
  • Non-Trucking Liability
  • Trailer Coverage
  • Medical Payments

Frequently Asked Questions

Hot shot insurance typically costs $5,000-$12,000 per year for a single truck. New authorities pay more ($8,000-$15,000) because they lack operating history. Rates decrease 15-30% after your first clean year. Key factors: driving record, cargo type, radius of operation, and truck value.
No. Personal auto policies exclude commercial use. If you haul freight for hire, you need a commercial auto policy with motor cargo coverage. Using personal insurance for hot shot trucking will void your coverage and leave you completely unprotected in an accident.
It depends on your combined gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). If your truck and loaded trailer exceed 26,001 lbs, you need a CDL. Many hot shot operators run under 26,001 lbs with a Class 3-5 truck to avoid the CDL requirement, but you still need a DOT number and commercial insurance.
Generally yes. Hot shot trucks are lighter, lower value, and carry smaller loads. Expect $5,000-$10,000 per year for an established operator compared to $8,000-$20,000 for a semi-truck. However, new authority hot shot operators may pay rates similar to semi-truck operators until they build a clean record.
You can operate under someone else's authority (leased on) or get your own MC number. Having your own authority gives you more flexibility to book your own loads and negotiate rates, but requires your own insurance policy with FMCSA-required minimums and BMC-91/MCS-90 filings.
If you have your own operating authority, you need a BMC-91 filing (proof of insurance), an MCS-90 endorsement on your liability policy, and a BOC-3 process agent designation. Your insurance company files the BMC-91 with the FMCSA on your behalf. Without these filings, your authority can be revoked.
The Ford F-350/F-450, Ram 3500/4500, and Chevy 3500/4500 are the most popular hot shot trucks. Most operators pair a one-ton dually with a 40-foot gooseneck flatbed trailer. Your insurance rate depends partly on the truck's value and GVWR rating.
Work with a broker like Full Coverage that compares 30+ carriers. Maintain a clean driving record and low CSA scores. Install a dash camera (5-15% discount). Increase your deductible if you can afford higher out-of-pocket costs. Bundle liability, cargo, and physical damage with one carrier for multi-policy discounts.
NM

Reviewed by

Nazar Mamaev

President, Full Coverage LLC

TRIP, CDS, TRS Certified  ·  Licensed in 47 States

Nazar Mamaev is a certified trucking insurance broker who has helped thousands of motor carriers find the right coverage at competitive rates.

Indianapolis, IN·317-427-5599·Get a Quote

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