Adam Mitchell, IBAO Young Broker of the Year 2019 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 Adam Mitchell, IBAO Young Broker of the Year 2019 (Mitch Insurance Brokers), edited by Ian McCowan (D.G. Dunbar Insurance). Our editorial standards →
Long-haul trucking—running loads 500km or more—presents unique insurance challenges. Extended highway exposure, overnight parking risks, fatigue factors, and varied weather conditions all increase your risk profile. Here's what you need to know about insuring long-distance operations in Ontario.
What Makes Long-Haul Insurance Different?
Long-haul operations face risks that local delivery truckers simply don't encounter. Insurance companies price policies based on these increased exposures.
Long-Haul Risk Factors:
- Extended Highway Exposure — More kilometers means more opportunity for accidents
- Multi-Provincial Operations — Different regulations in each province
- Overnight Parking — Theft and vandalism risks at truck stops
- Weather Variability — Driving through multiple weather systems
- Driver Fatigue — Long hours increase accident probability
- Remote Breakdowns — Towing costs from isolated locations
Essential Coverage for Long-Haul Operations
Primary Liability ($2M minimum)
Long-haul accidents often involve higher speeds and more severe damages. Many shippers require $2M+ liability for long-distance loads.
Cargo Insurance ($100K+)
Long-haul loads are often higher value. Ensure your cargo limits match the freight you're hauling.
Physical Damage (Comprehensive + Collision)
Your truck is your office, home, and livelihood. Full coverage protects against accidents, theft, and vandalism on the road.
Downtime/Trip Interruption
If your truck breaks down 2,000km from home, you need coverage for hotels, meals, and lost income while waiting for repairs.
Long-Haul Premium Factors
| Factor | Impact on Premium |
|---|---|
| Operating Radius (500km+) | +15-25% vs. local operations |
| Annual Mileage (150,000+ km) | Higher mileage = higher premium |
| Cross-Border Operations | +25-50% for US runs |
| Driver Experience | 5+ years long-haul reduces rates |
| Safety Technology | ELDs, cameras can reduce 5-10% |
Finding the Right Long-Haul Insurance
Not all insurance brokers understand long-haul operations. Work with specialists who:
- Have relationships with insurers who specialize in long-haul risks
- Understand interprovincial regulatory requirements
- Can bundle coverage for maximum savings
- Offer 24/7 claims support for drivers on the road
Industry Classification Codes
Long-haul operations fall under NAICS 484121 (General Freight Trucking, Long-Distance) with corresponding WSIB and ISO classifications that impact premium calculations.
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 →
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