Insurance is one of the costs fleet owners forget to plan for when they order a new flatbed, service body or crane. The upfit changes the value, weight and use of the truck, and your carrier will want to know. This is general information, not insurance advice, so confirm details with your agent.
Tell Your Agent About the Upfit
A new flatbed or service body adds thousands of dollars to the truck. If the policy only lists the bare chassis, a claim may not cover the body, the tools in it or an installed crane. Ask that the body and permanently mounted equipment be listed by value.
Items That Often Need Separate Coverage
- Installed equipment: cranes, compressors, welders and liftgates are often covered as scheduled equipment.
- Tools and inventory: tools in compartments usually fall under an inland marine or tool floater policy, not auto liability. Our tool theft prevention guide covers locks and layout, which some carriers consider.
- Hired and non-owned use: if employees drive their own trucks or you rent, check the policy for those cases.
What Carriers Look At
- GVWR and use class: heavier ratings and commercial use classes change rates. See our DOT compliance and GVWR guide.
- Radius of operation: local, intermediate or long haul.
- Driver records and vehicle count.
- Maintenance records: a documented preventive maintenance program helps show the fleet is well run.
- Safety equipment: proper lighting and cargo securement.
Questions to Ask Before You Order
- Is the new body covered from the day it is installed, or only after the policy is updated?
- Is the stated value agreed value or actual cash value?
- Are tools and cargo covered, and up to what limit?
- Does hauling heavy equipment or towing trailers change my classification?
Tax and Cost Planning
Insurance is an operating cost, while the body itself may qualify for depreciation. See our Section 179 guide and talk to your CPA.
Talk to Star Truck Equipment in Wharton, TX
We can provide a clear invoice that itemizes the body, crane and accessories to give your agent exact values. Serving Texas and Louisiana fleets. Call (979) 532-1486.
