The Long and Short of Short Haul Trucking
When most people think about truck drivers, they picture endless days and nights on the road traveling across the country. However, not all fleets operate that way. Short haul trucking involves traveling no more than 300 miles one way, with less than 75,000 annual miles on the road. Drivers typically deliver within the same city, town or state, but can sometimes cross into other states. There are few, if any, overnight trips and most drivers are at home with their families each night.
Short haul truckers deliver a wide variety of goods because of the nature of their shorter routes. Refrigerated items, produce and other temperature-sensitive cargo are well-suited for these operations. Shipments can be one-time hauls or scheduled runs on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. When drivers follow the same route on a regular basis, it simplifies navigation and allows them to build a rapport with customers.
Many short haul trucking operations start out as a single owner-operator. In most cases, they own their own trucks and work based on a contract or agreement with a company or shipper. Using independent truckers benefits both parties. Shippers can reduce overhead costs and truckers typically retain greater profit.
Sagamore Insurance Company specializes in coverage for short haul truckers, specifically fleets with one to six power units and a 3:1 tractor-to-trailer ratio. We have a competitive market for primary liability, physical damage and cargo coverage. There are a wide variety of commodities eligible for coverage including aggregates, construction debris and refrigerated goods, among others. Filings can be submitted to the home office and are processed on the same day. Certificates and additional insured endorsements can be completed by Sagamore or by the agent using our online system, allowing for easy access and quick turn-around time.
Our rates are best suited for truckers based in rural areas and we prefer operations that have been in business more than a year. We are competitive with risks that have favorable driving records, including good SMS and SAFER scores. Sagamore is also piloting a telematics program that provides multiple benefits to the trucker such as electronic logs and fleet monitoring. Additional discounts may be given for participating in this program.
Short haul trucking is a specialty market that requires careful handling and experience. With no mileage restrictions, no interest charges and immediate access to the most necessary policy documents, Sagamore provides agents and truckers with a simple and easy approach to trucking insurance.
Your current small fleet trucking contract gives you immediate access to the short haul trucking program. You can quote directly online at www.sagamoreinsurance.com or call our underwriting department at (800) 224-1221.
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