Will Commercial Insurance Cover Your Equipment While in Transport?

Moving expensive equipment from one location to another always carries some risk. Whether it’s construction machinery heading to a job site, medical devices being delivered to a clinic, or sound systems traveling for an event, one question often arises: Will your commercial insurance through North Coast Insurance Services, serving Lexington, MI, actually cover the load while it’s on the road?

The Gaps in Standard Policies

A basic commercial property policy usually protects equipment while it’s at your building or designated worksite. Once it leaves those grounds, coverage can become unclear. If a piece of machinery is damaged during transport or stolen at a rest stop, a standard plan might not provide protection. This is where many businesses encounter issues—they assume coverage follows the equipment wherever it goes.

Inland Marine Coverage

The solution often comes in the form of inland marine insurance. Despite its old-fashioned name, this type of coverage is specifically designed for property in transit. It can apply to tools, electronics, or larger equipment that needs protection while moving between locations. Policies can be customized to cover theft, accidents, or even damage caused during loading and unloading.

Why It Matters

Replacing high-value equipment can halt operations entirely. A broken generator, stolen diagnostic device, or damaged set of lighting rigs doesn’t just cost money; it delays projects and interrupts service for clients. Having coverage that specifically accounts for transit reduces both financial and operational risks.

If transporting equipment is a routine part of your business, it’s worth reviewing your current coverage. Asking your insurance representative at North Coast Insurance Services, serving Lexington, MI, about inland marine or similar endorsements can make the difference between a minor setback and a major loss. Protecting equipment on the move keeps your business moving, too.