Minimum limits and filings
Source: 49 CFR Part 387 and FMCSA insurance requirements.
| Carrier type | Minimum coverage | FMCSA form |
|---|---|---|
| For-hire, general freight, 10,001 lbs or more | $750,000 liability | BMC-91 / BMC-91X |
| For-hire, general freight, under 10,001 lbs | $300,000 liability | BMC-91 / BMC-91X |
| Oil (listed in 49 CFR 172.101) | $1,000,000 liability | BMC-91 / BMC-91X |
| Hazardous materials, bulk and high-risk | $5,000,000 liability | BMC-91 / BMC-91X |
| Household goods carriers | Liability plus cargo | BMC-91X and BMC-34 |
| Freight brokers and forwarders | $75,000 surety bond or trust | BMC-84 / BMC-85 |
Beyond the minimum
Minimums keep you legal; contracts decide what you can haul. Most brokers want $1,000,000 in liability and $100,000 in cargo, many shippers want higher limits, and growing fleets add excess liability. Plan for what your customers require.
Keep filings current
Coverage changes, insurer changes and cancellations all flow through FMCSA filings. Confirm your filings on FMCSA's licensing and insurance records any time you change policies.
Last updated November 10, 2026. Reviewed by a licensed insurance professional at Haul Good Insurance.