Have you ever needed truck insurance for just a few days or weeks, not a full year Maybe your truck is down for repairs, you’re taking a one-time haul, or waiting for a new policy to start. That’s where short-term truck insurance comes in.
Honestly, a lot of truckers overpay for full annual coverage when they don’t even need it that long. Let’s break it down in simple terms so you know exactly how short-term truck insurance works, when it makes sense, and how to get it without wasting money.
What Is Short-Term Truck Insurance
Short-term truck insurance (also called temporary truck insurance) gives you coverage for a short period anywhere from 1 day to 30 days, sometimes up to 90 days.
It protects your truck just like a regular policy but without locking you into a long-term contract. You pay only for the days you actually need coverage.
Think about this: if you only use your truck occasionally, why pay for 12 months of insurance
When You Might Need Short-Term Truck Insurance
Here are some common times when truckers choose short-term coverage:
- Buying a new truck: You just bought a truck and need quick coverage to drive it home.
- Seasonal work: You only operate during harvest or construction season.
- Temporary contract: You’re hauling for a short-term job or one-time load.
- Repair or downtime: You need coverage while your main policy is on hold.
- Owner-operator testing: You’re starting out and testing routes before committing long-term.
Basically, it’s perfect when you need flexibility without paying extra.
What Does Short-Term Truck Insurance Cover
Coverage depends on your provider, but here’s what most short-term policies include:
| Coverage Type | What It Does |
| Liability Coverage | Covers damage or injuries you cause to others. |
| Physical Damage | Pays for your own truck’s repairs after an accident or vandalism. |
| Cargo Coverage | Protect the goods you’re hauling. |
| Bobtail / Non-Trucking Liability | Covers your truck when not under dispatch. |
| Trailer Interchange | Covers damage to a trailer you don’t own. |
Tip: Always double-check what’s included, some temporary policies skip cargo or bobtail coverage unless you add it.
How Much Does Short-Term Truck Insurance Cost
The cost depends on your truck type, driving record, location, and coverage days.
But here’s a general range:
- Daily insurance: $20–$50 per day
- Weekly insurance: $150–$400
- Monthly insurance: $500–$1,200
You’ll likely pay more per day compared to a full-year plan but it’s still cheaper overall if you don’t drive regularly.
Pro Tip: Always ask for a refund policy if you cancel early some companies offer prorated refunds.
How to Get Short-Term Truck Insurance (Step-by-Step)
Getting temporary coverage is easy if you follow these simple steps:
- Gather your info: Truck details, VIN, USDOT number, and driving record.
- Get quotes online: Use comparison tools or call an agent who specializes in commercial truck insurance.
- Compare coverage: Look for limits, exclusions, and what’s actually included (not just price).
- Choose your term: Decide whether you need daily, weekly, or monthly coverage.
- Pay & get proof of insurance: You’ll usually receive your certificate via email within minutes.
That’s it you’re covered and ready to roll.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Truck Insurance
| Feature | Short-Term | Long-Term |
| Duration | 1–90 days | 6–12 months |
| Cost Efficiency | Cheaper for short use | Cheaper for full-time |
| Flexibility | Very flexible | Fixed-term |
| Coverage Options | Limited | Full range available |
| Best For | Seasonal or part-time drivers | Full-time owner-operators |
If you’re unsure, start short-term. You can always extend or switch to a full policy later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not checking what’s included (some plans exclude cargo).
- Choosing price over coverage.
- Forgetting to extend coverage if your job takes longer.
- Not reading cancellation or refund terms.
The truth is, many truckers lose money because they skip the small print.
Real-Life Example
One of my clients, Jake, runs a small dump truck business. Last year, he only worked during the summer. Instead of paying $7,000 for a full-year policy, he took a 3-month short-term plan and saved nearly $4,000 all while staying fully insured.
Sometimes, smart coverage timing is all it takes to boost your profits.
FAQs
Q1. Can I get short-term truck insurance for one day
Yes! Some insurers offer 1-day truck insurance great for moving or hauling a single load.
Q2. Does short-term insurance cover leased trucks
Usually, yes. But you’ll need permission from the owner or leasing company.
Q3. Is it available for all truck types
Most providers cover box trucks, dump trucks, semi-trucks, and even hotshots.
Q4. Will it cover my driver if I’m not behind the wheel
Yes, if you list the driver on your policy, always confirm this before purchase.
Q5. Can I extend my short-term policy
Absolutely. Most companies allow you to renew or switch to a long-term plan anytime.
Final Thoughts
Short-term truck insurance is a smart, flexible option for drivers who don’t need full-year coverage. It’s perfect for part-timers, seasonal haulers, or anyone testing the waters in trucking.
The key is to compare policies carefully, understand what’s included, and choose coverage that truly fits your work schedule.