What insurance does a freight broker business need? (2026)
Most freight broker operations carry a stack of commercial-insurance lines — some legally required (typically workers' compensation when you have employees), most commonly carried because clients, landlords, lenders, or regulators expect them. Below: the lines that bureau filings most often cite for freight broker operations. Confirm what's legally required vs commonly carried with a licensed agent in your state — requirements vary state by state.
Typical insurance coverages for freight broker operations
Most freight broker businesses carry a stack of 2 commercial-insurance lines — based on common industry practice and the lines that bureau filings most often cite for this vertical. Workers' comp is typically required by state law where employees are involved; the rest are commonly carried but not always legally mandated. Confirm with a licensed agent in your state for what's legally required vs commonly carried.
- Commercial Auto →Liability + physical damage for vehicles owned, leased, hired, or used in the business.
- General Liability →Third-party bodily injury, property damage, and personal/advertising injury claims arising from your operations.
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Insurance requirements for other industries
Browse the typical insurance coverage stack for other verticals. Each links to that industry's standalone requirements page.
| Business activity |
|---|
| Agents, shipping |
| Customs brokers |
| Freight forwarding |
| Marine shipping agency |
| Shipping agents (freight forwarding) |