Semi truck coverage is very expensive, so don't purchase a plan lightly. These tips should help you get low cost commercial truck insurance that won't leave you hanging when you need it.

Gather quotes

Get your driving history including any accident incidents, coverage history and vehicle reports and go to multiple agencies to find the best overall price. Your driving history plays into your premium quite a bit, so have all your information ready if they request it.

Extend your policy

Going for a multi-year (usually 3) policy will lock in your interest rate and pairs nicely with the first step of gathering commercial semi truck insurance quotes. You won't have the fear that you're locked into a bad rate if you do your homework first.

Be responsible about maintenance

If you show a history (like receipts) of keeping your rig well-maintained, your insurer may cut you a discount. Anything that reduces their liability and serves as an example of your own responsibility will help lower your rates.

Go for a higher deductible

This is almost a gamble, but if you're a meticulously safe driver (you are, aren't you?) it can really pay off. By going for “voluntary excess”, you increase your deductible in the event of an accident but your premiums will go down.

Do you need comprehensive coverage?

Just like you wouldn't pull full coverage on a 1990 Ford Tempo, you don't need comprehensive coverage on an old rig that's just riding out its life.

Scope out safe storing

If your regular routes take you to sketchy places, finding the safest possible place to keep your truck overnight and having that in a detailed plan can help lower your rates. Agents will examine all possible risks and the locale of your routes is definitely one of them.

Don't necessarily bundle

In some cases, it might be cheaper to find the best cargo insurance companies and get a rate from them instead of bundling all your coverage with your truck liability company.