Interstate vs. Intrastate Trucking Insurance—Which One Do You Need?

Whether your trucking business operates across state lines (interstate) or within a single state (intrastate), selecting the right trucking insurance coverage can significantly impact your operations.

Here’s how the two differ:

• Interstate trucking involves transporting goods or passengers across state lines. If your trucking operation crosses into different states, you fall under federal jurisdiction, which means you need to comply with federal regulations and insurance requirements.

• Intrastate trucking pertains to transporting goods or passengers within a single state. Although you are not crossing state lines, you still need to adhere to state-specific regulations and insurance requirements.

Compliance and Regulations

If you haul goods outside your company’s home state, you may be subject to federal and state regulations. Here’s how those laws may apply to your situation:

• Federal compliance—Interstate trucking requires adherence to federal regulations, including the FMCSA’s rules on insurance, safety and vehicle inspections. Ensuring compliance with these regulations is essential for operating legally across state lines.

• State compliance—Intrastate trucking requires compliance with state-specific regulations, which may be less stringent than federal requirements but are equally important for legal operation within the state. Each state has its own Department of Transportation or regulatory body that oversees intrastate trucking.

Choosing the Right Trucking Insurance Coverage

Your agent can help tailor your trucking insurance coverage to meet your organization’s needs in the following ways:

• Evaluate your operations—Determine whether your trucking business operates across state lines or within a single state. This will guide you in selecting the appropriate insurance coverage.

• Review and update—Review your insurance policy regularly to ensure it continues to meet your operational needs and any changes in regulations.

Contact Us

Contact Sina Insurance Agency in San Diego, California, for tailored trucking insurance coverage at favorable rates.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.