Inland marine insurance

Inland marine insurance is designed to protect business property that moves, is transported, or is stored at temporary locations. Standard commercial property insurance usually only covers items at a fixed address, leaving gaps when equipment is on the road or at a job site.

This coverage is essential for businesses that rely on mobile tools, equipment, or high-value property used away from their primary location.

What Is Inland Marine Insurance?

Inland marine insurance covers business property that is transported over land, stored off-site, or used at different job locations. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with water or marine vessels.

It fills coverage gaps left by traditional property insurance policies.

What Does Inland Marine Insurance Cover?

Coverage typically includes:

• Tools and equipment in transit

• Mobile equipment used at job sites

• Property stored at temporary locations

• Contractor materials and supplies

• High-value business property away from premises

Coverage applies whether property is being transported, stored, or actively used off-site.

What Inland Marine Insurance Does Not Cover

Most policies exclude:

• Normal wear and tear

• Intentional damage

• Property not listed or scheduled

• Vehicles themselves

• Certain high-risk property without endorsements

Reviewing scheduled items and limits is critical to avoid uncovered losses.

Who Needs Inland Marine Insurance?

Inland marine insurance is commonly used by:

• Contractors and construction businesses

• Landscaping and service companies

• Installation and repair businesses

• Businesses with mobile equipment

• Companies transporting valuable tools or materials

If your business property regularly leaves your primary location, this coverage is often essential.

Inland Marine vs Commercial Property Insurance

Commercial property insurance covers items at a fixed business location.

Inland marine insurance covers items that move, travel, or are used off-site.

Many businesses need both to achieve complete property protection.

How Inland Marine Insurance Works

Property can be insured on:

• A scheduled basis for specific high-value items

• A blanket basis for groups of tools or equipment

Claims are typically based on replacement cost or actual cash value, depending on policy terms.

How Much Does Inland Marine Insurance Cost?

Costs depend on:

• Type and value of property

• Frequency of transportation

• Industry risk level

• Coverage limits and deductibles

• Claims history

Inland marine insurance is often affordable compared to the cost of replacing stolen or damaged equipment.

Common Claims Covered by Inland Marine Insurance

Typical claims include:

• Theft of tools from vehicles or job sites

• Damage to equipment during transport

• Loss of materials before installation

• Accidental damage at temporary locations

Without this coverage, these losses are often paid out of pocket.

How to Choose the Right Inland Marine Policy

To choose the right policy:

• Inventory all mobile tools and equipment

• Accurately estimate replacement values

• Decide between scheduled or blanket coverage

• Review exclusions carefully

• Update coverage as equipment changes

Proper documentation helps ensure faster claim resolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is inland marine insurance used for?
It is used to insure business property that moves, travels, or is used away from a fixed location.

Does inland marine insurance cover tools in a truck?
Yes, many policies cover tools and equipment while being transported or stored in a vehicle.

Is inland marine insurance required by law?
No, but it is often required by contracts or strongly recommended for mobile businesses.

Does inland marine insurance cover stolen equipment?
Yes, theft is commonly covered if the equipment is properly listed in the policy.

Is inland marine insurance the same as equipment insurance?
They are similar, but inland marine insurance often provides broader off-site and transit coverage.

Do small businesses need inland marine insurance?
Yes. Small businesses with mobile tools or equipment are among the most common users of this coverage.

Call to Action

Are you using tools, equipment, or materials away from your main business location? With over 30 years of experience, we help businesses protect mobile property by comparing nearly 100 insurance carriers. Fill out the form below to get expert guidance and a tailored insurance solution.
Start now — get personalized options fast, secure, and tailored to you.