Your Certificate of Insurance (COI) is more than just a piece of paper — it’s your company’s proof of protection and professionalism. For motor carriers, shippers, and owner-operators, keeping your COI updated is what keeps loads moving and contracts valid.
Yet too often, endorsements go out — new driver, truck, or finance company added — but the COI never gets updated. That’s where problems start.
What Every Motor Carrier Should Check
- Correct Business Name & Entity Type
Make sure it matches your FMCSA registration and contracts — even small errors can create claim or compliance issues. - Policy Dates & Numbers
Always confirm active dates and correct policy numbers. An expired or outdated COI can stop a broker from assigning your next load. - Coverage & Limits
Verify your Auto Liability, Cargo, and General Liability limits meet contract requirements. Missing or incorrect limits can void agreements. - Endorsements & Additional Insureds
Every time a truck, driver, or broker is added, a new endorsement is issued — and your COI must reflect it.
Why Periodic COI Verification Matters
- Endorsements Change Frequently – Your COI must mirror those changes or your proof of insurance becomes invalid.
- Avoid Delays & Disputes – Shippers and brokers rely on accurate COIs to release payments and confirm compliance.
- Prevent Claim Denials – If your COI doesn’t match your policy, it can lead to denied claims or audit penalties.
- Stay Audit-Ready – FMCSA and carrier partners may review your certificates anytime.
Stay Protected — Stay Verified
At Hawk’s Bay Insurance Group, we help trucking companies stay compliant with up-to-date COIs and accurate policy management.
Pro Tip: Review your COI every 60–90 days or after every endorsement — don’t wait until renewal time.
Hawk’s Bay Insurance Group — Protecting Truckers, One Policy at a Time.