Kanwaljeet Bath, CIP Ontario Trucking Insurance is a network of RIBO-licensed insurance brokers specializing in commercial trucking. All content is written and reviewed by active industry professionals with direct underwriting experience. Expert review by Kanwaljeet Bath, CIP (Billyard Insurance Group), edited by Paul Lemmon (All-Risks Insurance Brokers). Our editorial standards →
Cross-border trucking between Canada and the United States is big business—but it comes with complex insurance requirements. Canadian truckers entering the US must navigate FMCSA regulations, carry specific endorsements, and meet minimum liability requirements that differ from Canadian standards.
Cross-Border Requirements
Before You Cross the Border:
Show up at the US border without proper documentation and you're getting turned around. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) verifies insurance compliance before entry.
Mandatory Cross-Border Requirements:
- MCS-90 Endorsement — Federal filing proving you carry minimum US liability
- $750,000 USD Minimum Liability — Required for general freight ($1M for hazmat)
- BMC-91X Filing — Proof of insurance filed with FMCSA
- US DOT Number — Required for all commercial vehicles in interstate commerce
- USMCA Compliance — Cabotage restrictions and point-to-point rules
Why Cross-Border Costs More
Cross-border operations typically add 25-50% to your premium. Here's why:
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| US Litigation Environment | US lawsuits average 3-5x higher settlements than Canada |
| Nuclear Verdicts | US trucking verdicts increasingly exceed $10M+ |
| Higher Liability Limits | US shippers often require $2M-$5M liability |
| Regulatory Complexity | Dual compliance (Canadian + FMCSA) |
| Extended Exposure | Longer distances, unfamiliar roads |
Cross-Border Coverage Components
Bi-National Liability
Single policy covering both Canadian and US operations with limits meeting both jurisdictions' requirements.
US Cargo Coverage
Cargo limits in USD. Many US shippers require $100K+ cargo coverage.
Trailer Interchange
Essential for cross-border—you'll often pull US shippers' trailers under interchange agreements.
Legal Defense
Coverage for US legal proceedings, which are more expensive than Canadian courts.
What US Shippers Require
Getting loads from US brokers and shippers requires meeting their insurance minimums:
| Shipper Type | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Small Brokers | $1M liability, $100K cargo |
| Major Brokers (CH Robinson, TQL) | $1M-$2M liability, $100K cargo |
| Large Shippers | $2M-$5M liability |
| Hazmat Loads | $5M+ liability |
The Ambassador Bridge Advantage
Our network includes specialists at Canada's busiest border crossing in Windsor-Detroit. Over 10,000 commercial vehicles cross daily. Working with brokers who understand cross-border operations means:
- Proper FMCSA filings to avoid border delays
- Relationships with insurers who specialize in cross-border risks
- Understanding of cabotage rules and compliance
- Quick certificate issuance for US shippers
- Claims handling expertise in both jurisdictions
Industry Classification Codes
Cross-border operations fall under NAICS 484121 (General Freight Trucking, Long-Distance) with additional requirements for international transportation. Classifications determine premium rates for bi-national coverage.
Ontario Trucking Insurance Classification Reference
Cross-reference table for NAICS, WSIB, ISO, and NCCI codes
| Category | NAICS (i) | WSIB (i) | ISO (i) | Risk Level | Avg. Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Freight Trucking, Long-Distance Long-haul trucking operations exceeding 150km radius | 484121 | 70220 | CA 7219 | High | $12,000 - $18,000/year |
| General Freight Trucking, Local Local delivery within 150km radius | 484110 | 70210 | CA 7218 | Medium | $6,000 - $10,000/year |
| Specialized Freight - Refrigerated Temperature-controlled cargo transport | 484230 | 70230 | CA 7228 | High | $14,000 - $22,000/year |
| Specialized Freight - Flatbed/Heavy Haul Oversized loads, machinery, construction equipment | 484220 | 70230 | CA 7222 | Very High | $18,000 - $28,000/year |
| Specialized Freight - Tanker/Hazmat Hazardous materials, fuel, chemicals | 484230 | 70240 | CA 7229 | Very High | $22,000 - $35,000/year |
| Used Household Goods Moving Residential and commercial moving services | 484210 | 70220 | CA 7217 | Medium | $8,000 - $14,000/year |
| Dump Truck Operations Construction materials, aggregate hauling | 484220 | 70230 | CA 7216 | High | $10,000 - $16,000/year |
| Tow Truck/Wrecker Services Vehicle recovery and towing | 488410 | 70250 | CA 7227 | High | $12,000 - $20,000/year |
Note: Premium estimates are based on 2024 Ontario market rates for operators with clean CVOR records. Actual premiums vary based on experience, claims history, fleet size, and cargo type. Get a personalized estimate →
Get Your Cross-Border Insurance Quote
Free quotes from licensed Ontario brokers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an MCS-90 endorsement and why do I need it?
The MCS-90 is a federal endorsement required by FMCSA for all for-hire carriers operating in interstate commerce. It guarantees the public that minimum liability coverage ($750,000 for general freight) is in place. Without it, you cannot legally haul freight across the US border.
Can I use my Canadian insurance in the United States?
Your Canadian policy must be endorsed for US operations. A standard Ontario commercial truck policy only covers Canadian operations. You need a bi-national policy or US endorsement that includes MCS-90 filing and meets US DOT requirements.
How do I get a US DOT number as a Canadian carrier?
Canadian carriers apply through the FMCSA Portal. You'll need proof of insurance with MCS-90, BOC-3 process agent designation, and safety certification. The process takes 2-4 weeks. Your insurance broker should coordinate the filings.
What happens if I have an accident in the United States?
US claims are handled under US law, which typically results in higher settlements. Your insurer should have a US claims network. Report immediately to both your insurer and the carrier (if leased). US litigation can take years, so proper coverage limits are critical.
Do I need separate cargo insurance for US loads?
Your cargo policy should specify coverage in both countries. Many US shippers require cargo limits stated in USD. Check that your policy covers the commodities you'll haul and has no territorial exclusions for the states you'll operate in.
What are cabotage rules and how do they affect me?
Cabotage prohibits foreign carriers from hauling domestic freight. As a Canadian carrier, you can haul from Canada to the US and back, but cannot pick up and deliver loads entirely within the US. Violating cabotage rules can result in fines and loss of operating authority.