July 3, 2025
As summer rolls into full swing, so does one of the busiest—and most vulnerable—shipping seasons of the year. Amid Fourth-of-July parties and summer recreation, back-to-school goods are starting to hit shelves, and the initial wave of fall inventory is starting to move. Commercial carriers are continuing to haul high-value loads–many across long distances and on increasingly tighter timelines.
For agents working with trucking clients, this season presents a timely opportunity to revisit motor truck cargo (MTC) coverage. As freight volume and value spike, so do risks like theft, damage, and spoilage. Without the right MTC policy in place, even a single claim can turn a profitable month into a major setback.
The Summer Surge: High Stakes for Freight Carriers
According to a recent study conducted by Overhaul, incidents of cargo theft increased significantly in 2024, with theft events trending upward in the summer months and continuing through the back half of the year. According to Overhaul’s study, the second half of 2024 accounted for almost 60% of the year’s theft events, “highlighting a persistent vulnerability in cargo security during this period.”
This seasonal uptick in risk is compounded by:
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- Higher shipment values – Back-to-school electronics, apparel, and seasonal goods typically carry higher price tags, increasing exposure.
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- Holiday weekends – Downtime driven by summer holidays and vacations increases the likelihood of trucks sitting idle or yards being left unattended.
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- Extreme weather events – Summer storms and heatwaves pose risks to temperature-sensitive freight like produce or pharmaceuticals.
Why Motor Truck Cargo Coverage Matters Now
Standard auto liability and physical damage policies don’t protect the freight itself. Motor truck cargo insurance fills that gap—covering the goods in transit from theft, damage, spoilage, and other covered perils.
For your clients, having proper MTC coverage isn’t just a box to check. It can:
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- Help them meet shipper contract requirements
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- Reimburse them for the cost of damaged or stolen freight
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- Provide peace of mind during high-risk seasons
Yet too often, MTC coverage is overlooked or added hastily, creating gaps in protection just when it’s needed most.
How Cover Whale Empowers Agents to Maximize Their Clients’ Protection
At Cover Whale, we specialize in helping agents protect their clients with tailored cargo solutions–quickly and seamlessly. Our platform is built to help agents:
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- Quote and bind MTC coverage in minutes
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- Package MTC with liability and physical damage to streamline servicing and reduce operational delays
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- Access knowledgeable underwriters who understand trucking risks inside and out
Our data-driven approach ensures that your clients get the cargo coverage they need without overpaying or overcomplicating the process.
Now Is the Time to Act
As shipping activity peaks, so do the risks that come with it. Helping your clients reassess their motor truck cargo insurance this summer can safeguard their business and reinforce your value as a trusted advisor.
If you’re interested in securing motor truck cargo protection for your clients, Cover Whale offers MTC coverage in 46 states. Head to our platform to submit a quote, and make sure your clients are protected before their next shipments hit the road.
