Trailer Interchange Coverage

Trailer interchange coverage can protect a carrier’s legal liability for physical damage to a non-owned trailer in its possession under a written trailer interchange agreement. It is different from coverage for owned trailers and from some forms of non-owned trailer physical damage.

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Coverage considerations

Non-owned trailer damage

Can address covered collision, fire, theft, vandalism or other listed causes of loss to an eligible non-owned trailer in the insured’s care.

Written agreement requirement

Traditional trailer interchange forms generally apply when the trailer is used under a written interchange agreement. The actual agreement should be reviewed.

Limits and deductibles

The selected limit should reflect the highest trailer value the carrier may possess. Separate collision and comprehensive deductibles may apply.

Coverage boundaries

Cargo inside the trailer, wear and tear, mechanical breakdown and contractual obligations beyond the policy can be excluded or limited.

Who may need this coverage?

  • Motor carriers exchanging trailers with other carriers
  • Power-only operators
  • Fleets pulling customer- or carrier-owned trailers
  • Owner-operators with written interchange agreements
  • Carriers whose contracts require a trailer interchange limit

Common eligibility and underwriting factors

  • Maximum value and type of non-owned trailers
  • Number of trailers in the carrier’s possession
  • Written agreement terms and contractual limits
  • Territory, secure parking and theft controls
  • Driver experience and loss history
  • Requested collision and comprehensive deductibles

Information commonly requested

  • Written trailer interchange agreement
  • Contract or certificate requirements
  • Trailer types and maximum values
  • Driver and vehicle schedules
  • Current policy and loss runs when available
  • Security and parking procedures

Frequently asked questions

Is trailer interchange the same as cargo insurance?

No. Trailer interchange addresses eligible physical damage to the non-owned trailer; cargo insurance addresses eligible property being transported.

Do I need a written trailer interchange agreement?

Traditional trailer interchange coverage generally depends on a written agreement. Other non-owned trailer options may apply in different situations.

How much trailer interchange coverage should I carry?

The limit should be evaluated against the highest trailer value and contractual requirement, subject to available carrier terms.

Does it cover a trailer I own?

Owned trailers are typically scheduled under physical damage coverage rather than trailer interchange coverage.

Related trucking insurance resources

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