What is Lowboy?
A lowboy is a type of flatbed trailer with a very low deck height designed to haul tall, heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, cranes, and oversized industrial machinery. Because of the trailer’s low center of gravity and specialized ramps, lowboys are used when standard flatbeds or step-decks cannot safely transport the load. In insurance terms, lowboy exposures combine commercial auto, cargo, and equipment coverage concerns.
Who needs it
Operators who regularly move heavy construction equipment, manufacturing plants that relocate machinery, heavy equipment haulers, rental companies, contractors, and specialty transport firms typically seek lowboy coverage. Owners who contract with third-party carriers often face contract-required insurance and higher underwriting scrutiny because of transportation risks and potential for significant property damage or injury.
What it typically covers
Coverage packages for lowboys usually mix several types of protection to address equipment and liability exposures:
- Commercial auto liability: covers third-party bodily injury and property damage arising from operation of the towing vehicle and trailer.
- Physical damage: collision and comprehensive coverage for the tractor and trailer.
- Motor truck cargo / equipment coverage: protects the cargo—the heavy equipment—against loss in transit; see examples like the Truckers Cargo & Physical Damage Package Program for tailored programs.
- Trailer interchange or hired/non-owned auto: for contractors using other carriers’ equipment.
- Additional coverages: roadside assistance, rental reimbursement, and endorsements for oversized or overweight loads.
Because operations vary, insurers evaluate underwriting factors such as load type, securement methods, driver experience, and route planning when quoting coverage.
Common exclusions or limitations
Typical exclusions include wear and tear, improper loading or overloading, unapproved modifications, and damage caused by intentional acts. Many policies limit coverage for inadequately secured cargo or for loads exceeding listed weight and dimensional limits. High-value machinery may require agreed-value endorsements or scheduled inland marine coverage.
Risk scenario: a poorly secured excavator shifting during transport can cause both trailer damage and severe third-party property loss—highlighting the need for proper equipment coverage and load securement practices.
Factors that influence cost
Insurers price lowboy programs based on several underwriting factors: vehicle and trailer age, GVW and axle configuration, type and value of equipment hauled, driver experience and safety record, annual mileage and route exposure, storage and theft controls, and past claims history. Contracts requiring additional insured status or higher limits also increase premium. Implementing risk management considerations such as driver training, pre-trip inspections, and securement standards can lower rates.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Proof requirements vary by state and by customer contract. Common deliverables include certificates of insurance, additional insured endorsements, and specific cargo or physical damage endorsements requested by shippers or rental customers. Carriers and operators should confirm filing needs and contract wording before accepting loads.
How to get a quote
To get an accurate quote, gather vehicle and trailer details, list typical cargo types and values, provide driver records and safety programs, and outline anticipated routes and annual mileage. If you need help preparing materials or want to review policy options, you can discuss with your insurance agent. For supplemental resources on trucking exposures and program options, review Deadheading vs Bobtailing: Insurance Risks and Options and explore Truckers Cargo & Physical Damage Package Program - International Brokerage & Surplus Lines, Inc. for program-level examples. Small fleets may also consider Small Fleet Truckers Occupational Accident Insurance to address worker injury exposures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need separate cargo insurance for the equipment I haul?
Often yes—motor truck cargo or scheduled inland marine coverage is commonly required to insure the value of equipment in transit. Contract terms and equipment value will determine the appropriate coverage.
Will my standard commercial auto policy cover a lowboy trailer?
Standard commercial auto policies may cover the towing vehicle but not the specialized cargo risks or the trailer’s physical damage without specific endorsements. Confirm with your insurer.
How does driver experience affect premiums?
Insurers place significant weight on driver history and certifications. Experienced drivers with clean records and formal training typically help reduce underwriting rates.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.