Trade contractors live in their trucks. Between ladder racks, trailers, tools and employees driving from job to job, a contractor's vehicles are one of the biggest liability exposures the business has — and general contractors and commercial clients will ask for proof of coverage before you start work.
What a contractor's auto policy usually includes
- Auto liability — $1,000,000 combined single limit is the typical contract requirement.
- Physical damage (comprehensive and collision) on owned trucks and vans.
- Trailer coverage for equipment and utility trailers.
- Hired & non-owned auto for rentals and employees' personal cars.
- Additional-insured and waiver-of-subrogation endorsements that GCs require.
Tools and equipment aren't covered by auto
Commercial auto covers the vehicle, not the tools inside it. Tools, equipment and materials are covered under an inland marine (tools & equipment) policy, which you can often package with general liability in a business owner's policy.
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Get quotesFrequently asked questions
Can I put my work truck on my personal policy if it's in my name?
Sometimes, if it's a light pickup used mostly personally. But if employees drive it, it hauls a trailer for work, or it's titled to your company, most insurers require a commercial policy.
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Reviewed October 2026. General information only — not insurance or legal advice. Coverage terms vary by insurer and state.