Independent Contractor and Contract Carrier Insurance
Insurance and risk solutions designed for your independent operation
Our team delivers tailored commercial transportation insurance, proactive risk management strategies and technology guidance to help independent contractors, owner-operators and contract carriers reduce risk, protect assets and maintain compliance.
Core coverage options for independent operators:
- Auto liability and non-trucking liability (bobtail)
- Cargo and cargo-deductible buyback
- Excess liability
- General liability
- Lease gap coverage
- Personal property
- Physical damage
- Primary auto liability (for contract carriers)
- Trailer interchange
One of the biggest gaps independent contractors face is the lack of workers' compensation coverage. Occupational accident insurance helps bridge this protection gap, providing coverage for medical expenses and lost wages if you're injured on the job.
Additional voluntary benefits available:
- Accident and sickness coverage
- Dental, vision and pharmacy
- Life and disability insurance
- Medical benefits
Tools and programs that support safety and compliance:
- Claims management and advocacy
- Contract requirement reviews (additional insured, waivers, primary/non-contributory requirements)
- Loss control consulting
- Maintenance and safety best practices
Technology guidance to strengthen underwriting profiles and manage risk:
- Dashcam integration guidance
- ELD system support for compliance documentation
- Telematics programs
Stay protected and ready for what comes next
With rising repair costs, evolving compliance requirements and increased liability exposure, the right coverage keeps your independent operation moving forward.
Independent Contractor, Owner-Operator and Contract Carrier FAQs
Most operators require auto liability, physical damage and cargo coverage. If you're not covered under a motor carrier's workers' compensation policy, occupational accident insurance is essential. Your contract or operating authority may also require additional insured status, specific limits or policy endorsements.
Independent contractors and owner-operators typically own or lease their equipment and work under contract with a motor carrier or shipper. Contract carriers provide transportation services under their own operating authority or through a permanent lease arrangement.
Occupational accident insurance provides medical and disability coverage if you're injured while working. Since independent contractors typically aren't covered by workers' compensation, this coverage helps protect your income and covers medical expenses after a work-related injury.
When you operate your own equipment, you may be responsible for injuries to others, property damage, cargo loss or contract violations. Proper liability and cargo coverage helps protect your business from financial loss resulting from claims or lawsuits.
Many shippers and motor carriers require additional insured status, waivers of subrogation or higher liability limits to protect themselves from liability. HUB reviews these contract requirements to help ensure your coverage meets compliance standards.
Yes. Non-trucking liability (also called bobtail coverage) protects you when using your truck for non-business purposes, such as personal errands or driving home between dispatches. It covers periods when you're not operating under the motor carrier's authority.
Your driving record, location, vehicle type, freight classification, safety practices, years of experience and claims history all influence premium costs and market availability. Improving safety scores and maintaining a clean driving record can help reduce rates over time.
Yes. We provide coverage for independent contractors working in last mile delivery, platform-based delivery services and other emerging transportation models. Our team understands the unique insurance requirements for these operations.
Shared, or gig, economy and platform delivery drivers typically need occupational accident insurance, commercial auto liability coverage and cargo coverage. Specific requirements depend on your platform contracts and whether you're classified as an independent contractor. HUB can help you understand your coverage needs and contract obligations.
