Understanding Texas Cargo Insurance: What’s Covered and What’s Not

🛻 Understanding Texas Cargo Insurance: What’s Covered and What’s Not

When it comes to protecting your freight, cargo insurance is one of the most misunderstood policies among Texas truckers. Many drivers assume that “full coverage” means everything is protected — until a claim gets denied.

At Danaco Group, we’ve seen firsthand how a small detail in your policy can make the difference between getting paid and getting denied.

🚚 What Is Cargo Insurance?

Cargo insurance covers the goods or freight you transport in case they’re damaged, stolen, or lost during transit. It’s designed to protect both you and your clients, giving peace of mind that if something happens to the load, you’re covered financially.

But — and this is key — not all situations are covered.

⚠️ Real Example: When a Claim Gets Denied

Recently, a Dallas trucker had his loaded trailer stolen overnight while it was parked and left unattended. Unfortunately, his cargo insurance claim was denied because his policy specifically excluded coverage for unattended vehicles.

While it’s a tough lesson, it’s also a common one. Many policies contain exclusions that drivers don’t realize until it’s too late.

Here’s what that scenario teaches:

• 🕛 Unattended Vehicle Clauses – Most policies require the truck to be attended or parked in a secure, monitored location.

• 🧾 Policy Wording Matters – “Theft” may be covered — but only under certain conditions.

• 🧭 Prevention is Key – Using locks, GPS trackers, and secure lots can help meet coverage requirements and prevent denials.

📦 What Texas Cargo Insurance Usually Covers

Most cargo policies will cover loss or damage caused by:✅ Accidents (collision, overturn, or fire)✅ Theft (when the vehicle meets policy security requirements)✅ Vandalism or malicious mischief✅ Load damage during loading/unloading (if included in the policy)✅ Weather-related damage (hail, lightning, flooding — depending on wording)

🚫 Common Exclusions (What’s Not Covered)

Even with cargo insurance, there are limits. Here are the most common non-covered situations:❌ Theft while vehicle is left unattended in an unsecured area❌ Improperly secured or packaged loads❌ Employee dishonesty (inside jobs)❌ Loss due to mechanical failure or wear and tear❌ Cargo types excluded in the policy (e.g., electronics, alcohol, or high-value freight)

💡 How to Protect Yourself and Your Business

If you’re hauling in Texas, here’s how to avoid costly claim denials:

• 🔍 Review your policy annually — especially exclusions and deductible amounts

• 🧰 Ask your agent to explain “attended vs. unattended” rules

• 🚨 Always secure your load and parking area overnight

• 📑 Keep records — police reports, photos, and BOLs help support your claim

• 🤝 Work with an experienced local insurance agent who understands Texas-specific risks

🏆 Why Dallas Truckers Trust Danaco Group

At Danaco Group, we help truckers get cargo insurance that actually fits their operation — not just the cheapest option. Our agents explain the fine print, help you choose coverage that protects your livelihood, and find the best rates available across trusted carriers.

Whether you’re running local or interstate hauls, we’ll make sure you’re fully covered from pickup to delivery.

👉 Contact Danaco Group today for a free review of your current cargo insurance and make sure your policy won’t leave you stranded when it matters most.