What FMCSA's insurance filings show
Every for-hire motor carrier must file proof of insurance with FMCSA and maintain continuous coverage. The filing covers public liability (BIPD), and for certain cargo types, cargo insurance. The minimum BIPD amount depends on what the carrier hauls: $750,000 for general freight, $1,000,000 for oil transport, $5,000,000 for hazardous materials.
FMCSA publishes the current insurance on file: policy amount, effective date, insurance company name, and policy number. When coverage lapses, the insurer must notify FMCSA within 30 days, and authority is typically revoked shortly after.
For a shipper vetting a carrier, the insurance filing is the primary way to confirm the carrier can actually pay out on a cargo claim. For a broker, it's due diligence that's legally required under 49 CFR 371. For a carrier itself, it's a way to spot-check that your agent actually filed the renewal paperwork.
When to be suspicious
Insurance filings that are months old without renewal updates, amounts below the required minimum for the cargo type, or coverage from unfamiliar insurers are all yellow flags. Some carriers file insurance just long enough to get authority granted, then let it lapse a few months later — the lookup will show the lapse the moment FMCSA processes the cancellation notice.
If you're vetting a carrier for ongoing work, also check that the policy expiration is still in the future, not just the filing date. A policy filed two years ago with no update is likely expired.
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Start MonitoringFrequently asked questions
How much insurance does a trucking carrier need?
For general freight: $750,000 BIPD minimum. For household goods and non-hazmat over 10,000 lbs: $300,000. For hazardous materials: $5,000,000. Cargo insurance is required for household goods movers at $5,000 per vehicle and $10,000 per occurrence.
How often is FMCSA's insurance data updated?
FMCSA processes insurance filings daily. New coverage usually appears within 1–3 business days of filing; cancellations appear within 30 days of the insurer's notification.
What does it mean if BIPD shows 'not on file'?
The carrier either never filed, let it lapse, or falls into a category that doesn't require BIPD (intrastate-only carriers, for example). Combined with a revoked authority status, it's almost always a lapse.
Can I see the insurance company's contact info?
Yes — FMCSA publishes the insurance company name and NAIC code. For the phone/address, look up the insurer on the NAIC website.