Jennifer Oegema, BBA, CAIB, CPIB 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 Jennifer Oegema, BBA, CAIB, CPIB (Oegema, Nicholson & Associates), edited by Adam Mitchell (Mitch Insurance Brokers). Our editorial standards →
Yes, You Can Get Insured
New authorities CAN get commercial truck insurance in Ontario. You'll pay more (typically 40-60% higher than experienced operators), have fewer insurer options, and may face restrictions—but coverage is available. As of early 2026, several insurers are actively writing new ventures, and experienced trucking insurance brokers know how to place this business competitively.
What "New Authority" Means for Insurance
Insurance companies define "new authority" or "new venture" as a trucking operation with less than 2-3 years of continuous operating history. This classification matters because:
Why Insurers Are Cautious About New Ventures:
- No claims history — Insurers can't assess your risk based on past performance
- Unproven management — No track record of safe operations or business stability
- Higher failure rate — 80% of new trucking companies fail within 2 years
- Limited options — Most standard insurers won't quote new ventures at all
New Authority vs. Experienced Operator Costs
| Coverage Type | Experienced (3+ yrs) | New Authority | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Package (O/O) | $10,000 - $14,000 | $16,000 - $22,000 | +40-60% |
| Liability Only | $4,500 - $6,000 | $7,000 - $10,000 | +50-65% |
| Deductibles | $1,000 - $2,500 | $2,500 - $5,000 | 2x higher |
What You Need to Get Insured
To apply for trucking insurance as a new authority, prepare the following documentation:
Required Documents
- Valid CVOR certificate
- Commercial driver abstract (3-year)
- Vehicle ownership/lease documents
- Business registration (Master Business License)
- HST/GST registration number
Helpful to Have
- Business plan (routes, cargo types)
- Driver training certificates
- Previous employer reference letters
- Proof of industry experience
- Safety program documentation
Driver Experience Requirements
Even if your company is new, YOUR personal driving experience matters significantly:
Opens access to most new venture programs
No at-fault accidents or major convictions in 3 years
The longer you've held your AZ, the better
Letters verifying your experience help significantly
What If You Have No Commercial Experience?
If you have no commercial driving history, your options are very limited. Consider: leasing on to an established carrier for 1-2 years to build history, or starting with a small vehicle (straight truck) that's easier to insure before moving to a semi.
Which Insurers Write New Authorities?
Most mainstream insurers won't quote new ventures. However, several specialty markets work with new trucking companies:
Northbridge Insurance
Has new venture programs with specific requirements for qualified applicants
Intact (Specialty Solutions)
Considers new authorities on a case-by-case basis with strong driver history
Facility Association
Last resort but always available—expect significantly higher premiums
Surplus Lines Markets
Lloyd's syndicates and non-admitted carriers for hard-to-place risks
A specialized trucking insurance broker is essential—they know which insurers are currently accepting new ventures and can present your application effectively.
Tips to Get the Best New Authority Rate
Start with a Specialized Broker
Don't waste time with general insurance agents. Work with trucking insurance brokers who understand the new venture market.
Prepare Your Documentation
Have everything ready before applying. Incomplete applications get rejected or delayed significantly.
Highlight Your Experience
Even if your company is new, emphasize your personal driving history and industry knowledge.
Accept Higher Deductibles
Offering a $5,000 deductible instead of $2,500 shows you have skin in the game and reduces premiums.
Limit Your Radius Initially
Starting with local/regional operations is easier to insure than cross-border routes.
Invest in Safety Tech
Dash cams, ELDs, and telematics demonstrate commitment to safety and can earn discounts.
Real Claim Examples From New Ontario Carriers
Highway 401 Rear-End Collision — Brampton
Liability + CargoA new carrier (4 months operating) rear-ended a stopped vehicle near Brampton during rush hour. The driver was unfamiliar with the route and misjudged stopping distance with a loaded trailer. Third-party vehicle was totalled, and cargo shifted, damaging the load.
Lesson: Invest in route planning and GPS systems, and ensure all drivers are trained on loaded-vehicle stopping distances. New carriers often underestimate the adjustment period.
Cargo Damage on First Cross-Border Run — Windsor
Cargo InsuranceA new authority holder's first cross-border shipment from Windsor to Detroit resulted in $42,000 in cargo damage. Improper load securement caused electronics to shift during customs inspection delays, with temperature-sensitive goods overheating.
Lesson: Start with local/regional routes before attempting cross-border. Ensure proper load securement training and temperature monitoring for sensitive cargo.
Slip-and-Fall at Loading Dock — Ottawa
General LiabilityA warehouse worker slipped on hydraulic fluid that leaked from a new carrier's truck at an Ottawa distribution centre. The carrier had not performed pre-trip inspections properly and missed the leak. The worker suffered a fractured wrist and filed a liability claim.
Lesson: Thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections are essential. New carriers must establish inspection routines from day one to prevent third-party injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get truck insurance as a new authority in Ontario?
Yes, but expect to pay 40-60% more than experienced operators. Some insurers specialize in new ventures. You'll need to show your business plan, driver qualifications, and may face higher deductibles initially.
How long is a new authority considered "new" for insurance?
Most insurers consider you a "new venture" for the first 2-3 years of operation. After maintaining a clean record for this period, you'll have access to more insurers and significantly better rates.
What documents do I need to get insured?
You'll need: valid CVOR certificate, commercial driver abstracts for all drivers, proof of vehicle ownership or lease, business registration, and ideally a business plan showing your intended operations, routes, and cargo types.
Why is new authority insurance so expensive?
Insurers have no claims history to assess your risk, and statistics show 80% of new trucking companies fail within 2 years. The higher premium compensates for this uncertainty. Rates typically drop 20-30% after your first clean year.
Get Your New Authority Trucking Insurance Quote
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance advice. Insurance requirements, rates, and coverage details vary by carrier, insurer, and jurisdiction. Always consult a licensed Ontario insurance broker for advice specific to your new trucking authority. Rates quoted are estimates based on 2026 market data and may not reflect your actual premium.