Can I buy trucking insurance from a private insurer in BC?

Partly. ICBC Basic Autoplan is mandatory. Extra third-party liability, collision, comprehensive, and cargo can come from private insurers through a licensed broker, and that's often where the savings are.

Is cargo insurance included with my ICBC policy?

No. Cargo insurance is a separate policy that covers the goods you haul. Most shippers and freight brokers require proof of it.

Do I need special coverage for US runs?

Yes. Crossing into the US brings its own liability filings and requirements. Tell your broker your routes so your policy matches where your trucks actually go.

British Columbia trade insurance

Insurance for Commercial Trucking & Fleets in British Columbia

Excess liability, cargo, and physical damage coverage for BC trucking companies and fleets. Licensed BC brokers compete for your account.

Get my quote

Commercial Trucking & Fleets in British Columbia illustration

Commercial Liability & Risk Guide for Commercial Trucking & Fleets in British Columbia

Trucking insurance in British Columbia is split in two. ICBC Basic Autoplan is mandatory for most vehicles and includes $200,000 of third-party liability. Everything above that, including the higher liability limits shippers require, collision, and cargo, can be bought from ICBC or private insurers. That's where a broker can save you money. BC routes add mountain passes, winter chain-up rules, and port drayage. QuoteMatch sends your application to licensed BC brokers with trucking markets, so private insurers compete for your optional coverage.

Risks specific to British Columbia

Working in British Columbia brings its own climate, market, and regulatory risks:

Winter collisions on mountain routes like the Coquihalla and Rogers Pass.
Shipper contracts that require $2 million to $5 million in liability.
Cargo theft and damage around Lower Mainland yards and the port.
Cross-border runs into Washington and beyond.

Rules and requirements to know

Insurers and clients in British Columbia will expect you to meet these:

ICBC Basic Autoplan, with extra liability and physical damage from ICBC or private insurers.
National Safety Code requirements for commercial carriers.
Winter chain and tire requirements on designated BC highways.

Example claim

How a claim could happen

“A Surrey-based carrier's tractor-trailer jackknifes on an icy stretch of the Coquihalla, damaging a second vehicle and spilling a load of packaged goods.”

How coverage respondsICBC basic and the carrier's extra liability handle the other vehicle and injuries. The cargo policy covers the destroyed load.

Official resources

Commercial Trucking & Fleets in other provinces

Common questions: Commercial Trucking & Fleets in British Columbia

Can I buy trucking insurance from a private insurer in BC?: Partly. ICBC Basic Autoplan is mandatory. Extra third-party liability, collision, comprehensive, and cargo can come from private insurers through a licensed broker, and that's often where the savings are.
Is cargo insurance included with my ICBC policy?: No. Cargo insurance is a separate policy that covers the goods you haul. Most shippers and freight brokers require proof of it.
Do I need special coverage for US runs?: Yes. Crossing into the US brings its own liability filings and requirements. Tell your broker your routes so your policy matches where your trucks actually go.