
Freight broker contingent cargo insurance cost can be a significant expense for freight brokers.
The cost of contingent cargo insurance varies depending on the type of cargo being transported.
Typically, the cost of contingent cargo insurance ranges from 0.5% to 2% of the cargo's value.
For example, if a freight broker is transporting a shipment worth $100,000, the insurance cost would be between $500 and $2,000.
Contingent cargo insurance premiums are usually higher for high-value or high-risk cargo.
A freight broker with a high volume of shipments may be able to negotiate lower premiums with their insurance provider.
Understanding Contingent Cargo Insurance
Contingent cargo insurance is not typically required, but freight brokers would be wise to have it. This type of insurance provides coverage in case a broker is held liable for damaged or lost cargo.
Freight brokers who don't have contingent cargo insurance may be left with significant financial losses if a cargo claim is made against them. Contingent cargo insurance can help protect brokers from these costs.
Contingent cargo insurance is designed to protect transportation brokers and freight forwarders against liability for cargo loss or damage. It provides coverage when a trucker's primary motor truck cargo policy fails to assume responsibility.
Who Needs Contingent Cargo Insurance?

Contingent cargo insurance is not typically required, but it's highly recommended for freight brokers. They'll be protected if they're held liable for damaged or lost goods.
Freight brokers have a lot to lose if they're found responsible for cargo that doesn't arrive at its destination. Contingent cargo insurance can help mitigate this risk.
Some shipping companies require freight brokers to have contingent cargo insurance before doing business together. This is a common practice that helps ensure both parties are protected.
Contingent Cargo Liability
Contingent Cargo Liability is a type of policy designed to protect transportation brokers and freight forwarders against liability for cargo loss or damage. This coverage kicks in when a trucker's primary motor truck cargo policy fails to assume responsibility.
Attorneys and specialists in freight claims processing provide support and counsel to assist in collecting claims from truckers and their insurance carriers. This can be a huge relief, especially if you're not familiar with the claims process.

Claims support is a key benefit of Contingent Cargo Legal Liability. It helps ensure that your firm receives the support it needs to navigate complex claims.
The policy also covers attorney fees and costs to defend your firm from suits relating to cargo damage and theft. This can save your firm from incurring significant legal expenses, even if the suit is groundless.
Here are the principal benefits of Contingent Cargo Legal Liability:
- Claims Support: Attorneys and specialists in freight claims processing provide support and counsel to assist in collecting claims from truckers and their insurance carriers.
- Attorney Fees and Cost to Defend Your Firm From Suits Relating to Cargo Damage and Theft: The costs associated with these types of lawsuits can be significant, even if groundless.
By having this coverage, your firm can avoid incurring legal expenses associated with defending or paying cargo claims. The cost of the attorney's fee, plus any settlements, will normally be paid up to the policy limit.
Costs and Options
Freight broker contingent cargo insurance costs can vary widely depending on the level of coverage and the type of cargo being transported.
Typically, freight brokers pay between 10% and 20% of the cargo's value for contingent insurance, which is a relatively low cost compared to other types of insurance.
For example, if a shipment is valued at $10,000, the freight broker might pay $1,000 to $2,000 for contingent insurance coverage.
Contingent Cargo Insurance Costs
Contingent cargo insurance costs vary based on the perceived risk, which can be influenced by factors such as the types of products being shipped.
The level of coverage and deductible also play a significant role in determining the cost of contingent cargo insurance.
Some freight brokers have reported saving money on transactional cargo insurance by using Loadsure's per-load, all-risk smart coverage, which can potentially cut insurance costs by 5x or more.
The cost of contingent cargo insurance can be reduced or even eliminated by using Loadsure, allowing freight brokers to pay just for the coverage they need.
Similar to other types of insurance coverage, contingent cargo insurance costs will vary based on the estimated gross revenue.
Broker Trust Fund
A trust fund of $75,000 can be used in lieu of a surety bond for a licensed broker of property.
This trust fund option is available under 49 CFR Part 387.307 and requires a Form BMC-85 to be filed with the FMCSA.

The trust fund provides financial responsibility for the broker by ensuring payments to shippers or motor carriers if the broker fails to carry out contracts.
The trust fund remains in effect until cancelled by the bonding company.
The owner of a trust fund has more control over how claims are paid from the fund compared to a surety bond administered by the bonding company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost for cargo insurance?
The average cost of cargo insurance is between $400 and $1,800 per year. To get a specific quote, contact an insurance agent for a personalized estimate.
What is contingency cargo insurance?
Contingent cargo insurance protects transportation intermediaries from financial loss due to cargo damage or loss during transit. It's a vital coverage for third-party logistics providers, property brokers, and forwarders who don't issue bills of lading or have custody of cargo.
Sources
- https://www.dat.com/solutions/cargo-insurance-for-freight-brokers
- https://www.assuredstandard.com/how-much-is-contingent-cargo-insurance-for-brokers/
- https://logistiq.com/who-needs-to-carry-contingent-cargo-insurance/
- https://transinsurers.com/broker-bonds-and-insurance
- https://www.thefiai.com/insurance-worcester-ma/non-traditional/contingent-cargo
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