What is Tire Stores?
Tire stores insurance is a package of coverages designed for businesses that sell, mount, repair, or retread tires. It combines protections such as commercial general liability, property coverage for storefronts and equipment, and optional commercial auto exposure for delivery or service vehicles. Policies are tailored to risks common in tire operations, including equipment damage, customer injuries, and inventory loss.
Who needs it
Typical buyers include independent retailers, multi-location operators, mobile tire services, and repair shops that perform alignments or retreading. Smaller shops may focus on general liability and property coverage, while larger operations often add commercial auto, equipment coverage, and participant accident coverage for on-site service events. For examples of specialty programs, see the Colonial General Tire Dealers Insurance Program at Colonial General Tire Dealers Insurance Program.
What it typically covers
Common coverages include:
- Commercial general liability for customer injuries or third‑party property damage
- Property coverage for inventory, signage, tools, and tire mounting machines
- Equipment breakdown or inland marine coverage for valuable diagnostic tools
- Commercial auto for delivery vans or service trucks
- Optional endorsements like product liability for sold tires or event liability for promotional clinics
For shops that focus on repairs and alignments, more tailored options are available — see Tire Shop Insurance (New & Repair, Wheel Alignment) for examples of coverages specific to repair operations.
Common exclusions or limitations
Policies often exclude intentional damage, routine wear and tear, and some types of pollution or contamination. Auto exposures may have mileage or driver-eligibility limits, and product liability can be limited unless specifically added. Losses from improper installation may be contested unless covered by a service warranty or a specific endorsement.
Factors that influence cost
Underwriting factors include location and storefront condition, annual payroll, revenue from parts versus labor, number and type of service vehicles, loss history, and the presence of safety programs. High inventory of specialty tires, significant commercial auto exposure, or frequent roadside service increases premiums. Risk management measures such as equipment guards, employee training, and vehicle maintenance can reduce costs.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Many landlords, municipalities, or commercial accounts require certificates of insurance showing limits for general liability and hired/non-owned auto. Keep copies of declarations and endorsements on file and confirm that additional insureds or waiver of subrogation endorsements are included if requested by a contract.
How to get a quote
Collect basic information before requesting a quote: business location, revenue split between sales and service, number of employees, vehicles, and recent loss history. You can also review coverages with your insurance professional — or ask your agent to compare tailored programs. For programs that serve retreading and repair operations, see Tire Retreading and Repair Shops Insurance for examples of specialized options.
Risk scenario: a customer slips in a service bay or a delivery van is damaged during transport—those are typical exposures this insurance aims to cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need commercial auto coverage if I only make occasional deliveries?
Yes — if a vehicle is used for business purposes, commercial auto or hired/non‑owned auto coverage is usually required. Personal auto policies often exclude business use.
Will product liability cover a tire that fails after sale?
Product liability can respond to claims from defective tires, but coverage terms and limits vary. Many carriers offer specific product liability endorsements for retailers and installers.
How can I lower my insurance premiums?
Improving shop safety, maintaining driver records, reducing off‑premises exposures, bundling coverages, and implementing loss-prevention programs are common ways to reduce premiums. Speak with your broker for options tailored to your operation.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.