Commercial Auto for AR Roofers: What Drives the Premium and How to Lower It
Updated: 7 days ago
Roofers in Arkansas often pay more for commercial auto than other trades. This guide explains what insurance companies look at, which parts you can control, the federal truck rules to watch, and two coverage gaps to check.
Why roofers pay more
Insurance companies price commercial auto by the type of work and the risk that comes with it. For roofing, that usually means:
Heavy loads. Trucks and trailers carrying shingles, ladders and equipment can cause more damage in an accident.
Lots of miles. Storm work often means long drives, sometimes out of state after a hail event.
Several drivers. Employees and sometimes subcontractors driving company trucks.
Tight schedules after storms. More time on the road in busy, unfamiliar areas.
You can't change the trade you're in, but you can control a lot of what goes on the application.
1. Your drivers' records
Driving records (MVRs) are one of the biggest things you control. Insurance companies pull them when they quote and at renewal.
Speeding tickets, at-fault accidents and especially DUI/DWI on any listed driver can raise the rate for the whole policy or limit which companies will quote.
Check a driver's record before you let them drive a company truck, employee or subcontractor.
If someone has a bad record, keep them out of your trucks or ask your agent about excluding them from the policy.
A written driver safety program can help with some insurance companies.
2. Truck weight and federal rules
Weight affects both your rate and the federal rules you have to follow.
USDOT number: a truck or truck-and-trailer rated at 10,001 lbs or more needs a USDOT number when it's used across state lines. Arkansas isn't on FMCSA's list of states that require one for in-state-only work, but neighboring states like Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas are. Storm work in another state counts as crossing state lines.
CDL: a single vehicle rated at 26,001 lbs or more needs a Class B CDL. A combination of 26,001 lbs or more towing a trailer rated over 10,000 lbs needs a Class A CDL.
Operating authority (MC number) is generally for companies hauling other people's goods for pay. A roofer hauling its own materials usually doesn't need it.
A one-ton truck with a loaded trailer can pass 10,001 lbs without you noticing. Check the ratings on the door sticker and trailer plate, and use FMCSA's registration tool if you're not sure. Tell your agent when you add a heavier truck or trailer so the policy matches what you drive.
3. Where you drive
The application asks how far from home your trucks go. Be accurate. If you tell the insurance company "Arkansas only" and then have an accident in Missouri during storm work, the claim can turn into a dispute about what was on the application.
Listing out-of-state work may cost more, but it's much cheaper than a claim problem.
4. Number of trucks and what they carry
The number of vehicles, their size, and what they haul all affect the rate. Trailers, mounted equipment and loads of materials should all be listed. Ask your agent whether materials you haul need their own coverage, since auto policies don't usually cover the cargo itself.
5. Claims history
Insurance companies look at your past claims, usually over the last three to five years. Repeat claims weigh more than a single one. Paying very small claims yourself and focusing on driver safety can help keep your history clean.
What insurance companies ask for when quoting
Having these ready makes quoting faster:
Vehicle list with year, make, model, VIN and weight rating, plus trailers
Driver list with names, dates of birth and license numbers, so the company can pull MVRs
Loss runs (claims history) from your current insurance company, usually for the last three to five years
Your current policy declarations page
Where you operate, including any out-of-state work
USDOT number, if you have one
Two coverage gaps to check
Hired and non-owned auto. Covers your business when employees or subcontractors use their own vehicles, or rented ones, for your work. A standard commercial auto policy may only cover the trucks listed on it. See our post on hired and non-owned auto for Arkansas contractors.
Tools and equipment (inland marine). Your auto policy doesn't cover tools and equipment stored in the truck. A separate tools and equipment policy can cover theft and damage on the job or in transit.
FAQ
Can I use my personal truck for roofing work?
Personal auto policies may exclude or limit business use, so an accident on a roofing job could be denied. Tell your agent how the truck is used. A truck used for roofing usually needs commercial auto.
Do I need a USDOT number in Arkansas?
If your truck or truck-and-trailer is rated at 10,001 lbs or more and you work across state lines, yes. Arkansas isn't on FMCSA's list of states that require one for in-state-only work.
Does commercial auto cover hail damage to my truck?
Hail damage to your own truck is usually covered under comprehensive coverage, minus your deductible, if you carry it.
How can I lower my commercial auto deductible?
You can choose a lower deductible, but it usually raises the premium. Ask your agent to quote a few deductible options so you can compare.
Will working out of state after storms affect my policy?
It can raise the rate, but it must be listed. If you leave out-of-state work off the application and have a claim there, the claim could be disputed.
Want to know what's driving your commercial auto rate? Call City Insurance and Financial Services at (763) 582-1888 or contact us. Related: commercial insurance and whose policy pays when a subcontractor's truck causes damage.
City Insurance and Financial Services, Minnetonka, MN.
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