What is Off-Course and Storage?
Off-course and storage insurance protects property and operations that are held away from a primary site — for example, inventory, equipment, or vehicles stored at a secondary location, in transit, or at an off-site facility. It’s commonly used when items are moved between sites, stored in rented yards or warehouses, or temporarily kept while events or repairs take place. This coverage can complement general commercial property, commercial liability, and commercial auto exposure protections.
Who needs it
Businesses and organizations that rely on secondary storage or off-site locations typically seek this coverage. Examples include clubs and associations that store equipment between seasons, retailers and operators who use external storage yards, contractors with off-site staging areas, and marine businesses that provide on-land boat storage. Specialists who handle equipment, transportation, or seasonal inventory also often purchase this protection to manage transportation risks and facility risks.
What it typically covers
Policies vary, but common coverages include:
- Property coverage for stored goods and equipment while at an off-site location.
- Limited liability for third-party bodily injury or property damage that occurs at the storage site (similar to event liability or commercial liability protections).
- Coverage for loss or damage during loading, unloading, and transit between locations.
- Optional endorsements such as participant accident coverage for organized events or additional equipment coverage for high-value items.
For programs focused on specific markets, see carrier pages such as Off Course and Storage Program for more detail and examples of how these packages are structured.
Common exclusions or limitations
Typical exclusions include wear and tear, gradual deterioration, intentional acts, and theft without forcible entry. Many policies restrict coverage for hazardous materials or non-permitted storage; if you store specialized waste, different terms may apply — see related coverage pages like On Land Boat Storage Insurance for industry-specific limits. Exclusions also commonly apply to losses arising from poor maintenance, pollution, and certain types of transport not listed on the policy.
Factors that influence cost
Underwriting factors include the value of stored property, security and access controls at the storage site, distance and mode of transport, type of goods (e.g., electronics vs. non-hazardous materials), frequency of movement, and historical loss experience. Risk management considerations — such as alarm systems, gated access, and employee training — can lower premiums.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Many landlords, event venues, and clients require certificates of insurance that name them as additional insureds or show specific limits. Make sure your policy lists required endorsements and that coverage dates match contract or lease terms. Certificates typically document liability limits and the effective policy period.
How to get a quote
When requesting a quote, provide details about storage locations, types and values of stored items, security measures, estimated transit frequency, and any contractual insurance requirements. To discuss options and next steps, talk to your agent who can compare program structures, endorsements, and limits suited to your operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do off-course storage policies cover goods in transit?
Many policies include limited transit coverage for movement between specified locations, but the scope varies. Confirm transit limits and any required endorsements before relying on the policy for transport risks.
Will my landlord accept the insurance certificate?
Landlords often require specific wording, limits, and additional insured status. Provide the landlord’s requirements to your broker so they can tailor the certificate and endorsements accordingly.
Are hazardous materials covered?
Storage of hazardous or regulated materials usually has separate underwriting and exclusions. Declare any such materials up front so insurers can quote appropriate terms or recommend specialized coverage.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.