Carrier Launch KitInsurance Requirements for New Trucking Authority
Last updated: October 20, 2026 · Sources: 49 CFR 387.7, 387.9, 387.303, 387.313 (eCFR, as of Oct. 2026), FMCSA Insurance Filing Requirements
Quick answer: For-hire carriers of general freight need at least $750,000 in public liability coverage for vehicles of 10,001 lb or more, or $300,000 if the whole fleet is under 10,001 lb. Certain hazmat requires $1 million or $5 million. Your insurer files the proof (BMC-91 or BMC-91X) with FMCSA. Authority isn't granted until it's on file.
Federal minimum liability for for-hire property carriers
| Operation | Federal minimum (BI/PD) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Non-hazardous property, vehicle GVWR 10,001 lb+ | $750,000 | 387.9; 387.303(b)(2) |
| Non-hazardous property, fleet only of vehicles under 10,001 lb | $300,000 | 387.303(b)(1) |
| Oil; certain hazardous materials/waste (10,001 lb+) | $1,000,000 | 387.9 |
| Certain bulk hazmat, explosives 1.1–1.3, poison inhalation Zone A, highway-route-controlled radioactive | $5,000,000 | 387.9 |
| Household goods: cargo, in addition to BI/PD | Required (FMCSA chart lists $5,000) | 387.303(c) |
Sources: 49 CFR 387.9 (amended 91 FR 45660, July 21, 2026), 387.303, and the FMCSA Insurance Filing Requirements chart.
These are minimums. Brokers, shippers and lenders often require higher limits or additional coverage. Federally, cargo insurance is required only for household goods carriers, but many broker-carrier agreements require it. Read each contract.
How the filing works
- Your insurer files, not you. Liability proof goes to FMCSA electronically on BMC-91 or BMC-91X, or a BMC-82 surety bond. Household goods cargo uses BMC-34 or BMC-83. FMCSA doesn't provide copies of these forms (FMCSA Registration Forms).
- Timing: FMCSA tells new applicants to contact their insurance provider right after getting a docket number. If the required filings aren't made by the deadline stated in your FMCSA Register notice, the application can be dismissed, so don't wait.
- No grant without it: FMCSA won't grant authority until the minimum coverage is on file, and once granted, you must keep it on file to avoid revocation.
- Keep proof: the MCS-90 endorsement (or MCS-82 bond) must be kept at your principal place of business (387.7(d)).
Cancellation: weeks, not months
- A policy under Part 387 Subpart A can be cancelled on 35 days' written notice (387.7(b)(1)).
- A BMC-91/91X filed with FMCSA can't be cancelled until 30 days after a cancellation notice (Form BMC-35) is filed with FMCSA (387.313(d)).
- Operating without required coverage is an automatic failure at the new entrant safety audit (385.321) and can trigger an expedited audit (385.308).
New-authority insurance checklist
- ☐ Named insured and address match your FMCSA legal name and address exactly. FMCSA warns that mismatches delay authority actions.
- ☐ Check L&I or Motus to confirm the filing shows as active, with the right insurer and effective date.
- ☐ Every power unit is scheduled on the policy (VIN, year, make).
- ☐ Every driver has been submitted to and approved by the insurer before driving. Many policies cover listed drivers only.
- ☐ The declarations match how you actually operate: radius, commodities, garaging address, trailer interchange.
- ☐ Keep a current certificate of insurance PDF ready for brokers.
- ☐ Put your renewal date on the calendar about 60 days ahead and ask for quotes early.
Why is new-authority insurance expensive?
This is industry practice, not regulation. Insurers price new ventures with no loss history as higher risk, and new carriers often say so in online trucking forums. Things you can control include clean MVRs, experienced drivers, accurate garaging and radius information, and telematics or ELD data that some insurers consider. An ELD with safety features, such as Motive, may help you document safe driving. Whether it lowers your rate depends on the insurer.
Stay covered and audit-ready
The Carrier Launch Kit New Authority: First 90 Days kit includes the insurance checklist, a renewal tracker in the workbook, and the full audit-prep section. Get the kit → · Free First 30 Days Checklist
FAQ
What's the minimum insurance for a box truck with authority? A 26-foot box truck is usually over 10,001 lb GVWR, so the minimum is $750,000 for non-hazardous freight. Check your vehicle's GVWR.
What's the minimum for a cargo van or small hotshot under 10,001 lb? It's $300,000, if every vehicle in the fleet is under 10,001 lb GVWR.
Is cargo insurance required by FMCSA? Only for household goods carriers. Brokers and shippers often require it anyway.
Who files the BMC-91X? Your insurance company does, electronically.
How long do I have if my insurance is cancelled? FMCSA filings can't be cancelled until 30 days after the BMC-35 notice. Replace coverage right away.
Educational only, not insurance or legal advice. Carrier Launch Kit is not an insurance agency and isn't affiliated with FMCSA or USDOT.
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