Inland marine insurance

We will search the top carriers for you for the best offer.

Home » Business Insurance » Inland marine insurance

Inland marine insurance

Inland marine insurance is a type of property insurance that covers specific types of movable property and goods while they are in transit or stored in various locations other than a fixed, specified property address. Despite its name, inland marine insurance has evolved beyond its original focus on covering goods transported via inland waterways, and it now includes coverage for a wide range of property that may be on the move.

Here are some key aspects of inland marine insurance:

1. Coverage for Mobile Property: Inland marine insurance covers property that is not tied to a fixed location. This can include equipment, tools, merchandise, artwork, valuable documents, and more. It’s often used to protect property that is frequently in transit or stored at various job sites or locations.

2. Broad Coverage: Inland marine insurance policies are highly customizable and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the insured. This means you can choose coverage that suits your business or personal situation, whether you’re a contractor, business owner, or collector.

3. Protection for Various Risks: Inland marine insurance typically provides coverage against a range of risks, including theft, damage, vandalism, and accidents during transport. For example, a construction contractor might use it to protect tools and equipment from theft or damage at job sites.

4. Diverse Applications: Inland marine insurance is not limited to one industry or sector. It is used by a variety of businesses, including contractors, builders, transportation companies, museums, art galleries, jewelers, and more.

5. Transit Coverage: Inland marine insurance can cover property while it is in transit, whether transported by land, air, or water. This includes coverage for cargo in trucks, airplanes, ships, and trains.

6. Installation Coverage: Some inland marine policies offer installation coverage, which can protect property during installation or assembly. This is valuable for contractors and businesses that provide services involving the installation of equipment or machinery.

7. Unique Items: Inland marine insurance can be used to cover unique and high-value items like fine art, antiques, musical instruments, and specialized equipment.

8. Floater Policies: Inland marine insurance is often provided as “floater” policies, which means the coverage is not tied to a specific location. This flexibility makes it well-suited for businesses with mobile property or property that frequently changes location.

9. Additional Coverage: Some inland marine policies offer additional coverages, such as coverage for data and computer equipment, providing protection against data breaches and cyber incidents.

In summary, inland marine insurance is a versatile form of property insurance that covers movable property and goods while they are in transit or stored in various locations. Its flexibility and customizable nature make it an essential tool for businesses and individuals who need to protect valuable property that is not confined to a single fixed location.  

What does inland marine insurance not cover?

Inland marine insurance is a versatile form of insurance that provides coverage for movable property and goods while they are in transit or stored in various locations other than a fixed property address. While it offers broad coverage, there are certain exclusions and limitations to what inland marine insurance typically does not cover. It’s important to review your specific policy for details, as coverage can vary among insurers, but here are some common exclusions:

  1. General Wear and Tear: Inland marine insurance is not designed to cover damage that occurs due to the normal wear and tear of property. If your property deteriorates or is damaged over time due to its age or use, it may not be covered.

  2. Intentional Damage: Damage caused intentionally by the insured or anyone with an interest in the property is typically excluded from coverage. This includes deliberate acts of vandalism or destruction.

  3. War and Terrorism: Many inland marine insurance policies do not cover damage caused by war, acts of terrorism, or other similar acts of warlike nature. Separate insurance policies may be needed for such risks.

  4. Nuclear Hazards: Damage caused by nuclear hazards, including radiation, is generally excluded from inland marine insurance coverage.

  5. Acts of Nature: While inland marine insurance covers many natural disasters, such as storms, floods, and earthquakes, specific policy wording and geographic limitations may apply. It’s important to understand the policy’s terms regarding natural disasters and geographic coverage.

  6. Unspecified Perils: Some inland marine policies are named perils policies, which means they only cover the specific perils listed in the policy. If a peril is not listed, it may not be covered. Comprehensive coverage is broader and typically covers all perils unless specifically excluded.

  7. Illegal Activities: Inland marine insurance does not cover property used for illegal activities or property that is seized by law enforcement due to illegal activities.

  8. Mysterious Disappearance: Some policies exclude coverage for property that mysteriously disappears or is unexplained. This means that if you can’t provide evidence of how the property was lost, it may not be covered.

  9. Inadequate Packaging: If property is damaged due to inadequate packaging or improper preparation for transit or storage, it may not be covered.

  10. Pollution: Damage caused by pollution, including environmental contamination, may be excluded from inland marine insurance coverage. Separate pollution liability insurance may be needed for such risks.

Inland marine insurance cost

The cost of inland marine insurance can vary widely based on the factors mentioned earlier. However, here are some approximate annual premium ranges for different types of inland marine insurance policies:

  1. Contractors’ Equipment Insurance: This typically covers tools, machinery, and equipment used by contractors. Premiums can range from $500 to $2,000 or more annually, depending on the value of the equipment.

  2. Fine Arts Insurance: This covers valuable art pieces and collections. Premiums can vary significantly, but they may start at around $500 annually for smaller collections and go up to several thousand dollars for more extensive collections.

  3. Builder’s Risk Insurance: This covers property under construction or renovation. Premiums may range from 1% to 5% of the total construction cost, which means coverage for a $1 million project might cost between $10,000 and $50,000.

  4. Cargo Insurance: Premiums for cargo insurance can vary widely depending on the type of cargo, its value, and the shipping route. As a rough estimate, it may start at around $1,000 annually for small shipments.

  5. Installation Floater Insurance: This covers property while it’s in transit or installation. Premiums may range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more annually, depending on the scope and value of the projects.

  6. Computer Equipment Insurance: Premiums for insuring computer equipment, such as servers and laptops, can range from $500 to $2,000 annually, depending on the value of the equipment.

  7. Miscellaneous Equipment Insurance: The cost of insuring various types of equipment, like medical devices or musical instruments, can vary widely. Premiums may start at a few hundred dollars annually and go up based on the value and type of equipment.

Please note that these are rough estimates, and the actual cost of inland marine insurance will depend on specific factors related to your business, property, or cargo.

The next best thing you can do is send us an inquiry to see which insurance company you can get the best deal from.
All you need to do is fill out the form below. 

We will find the best business insurance tailored to your needs. Read more… 

Inland marine insurance

Inland marine insurance Quote

Send the request and we will quote multiple markets to get you the best coverage and price. 

Contact details:

We will compare quotes from trusted carriers for you and provide you with the best offer.

Whatever your needs, give us a call, have you been told you can’t insure your risk, been turned down, or simply unhappy with your current insurance? Since 1995 we’ve been providing coverage to our customers, and helping people across United States.