17 Jul Why Commercial Auto Insurance Costs Are Rising

You’re up before sunrise, loading the truck for the day’s first job. Maybe it’s an urgent HVAC call, a seafood delivery, or a mobile salon appointment.
But like many service businesses, you’re now facing rising commercial auto insurance costs.
Everything runs smoothly—until your insurance renewal lands in your inbox… and your premium has jumped by 20% overnight.
Now what?
You’re not alone. Businesses like yours that rely on commercial vehicles are getting hit hard by rising insurance premiums and shrinking carrier options. And these trends aren’t slowing down.
The Nationwide Surge in Commercial Auto Insurance Rates
Across the country, insurers are increasing commercial auto premiums by 15–20% or more. In many cases, new businesses are being denied coverage altogether, especially in areas considered high-risk. With carriers scaling back or exiting certain markets, even seasoned business owners are scrambling for better options.
What does this mean for your business?!
- New ventures may be blocked from obtaining affordable coverage
- Renewals can come with surprise rate hikes
- Expanding your fleet could drastically increase premiums
Licensed in 23 States (and growing)
Fortunately, wherever you operate, Colstan Insurance has you covered. Colstan Insurance brings the knowledge and carrier access to protect your business wherever the road takes you. We help service businesses across:
Alabama
Arkansas
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
New Hampshire
New Jersey
Ohio
New York
North Carolina
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Vermont
Virginia
Industries Feeling the Pressure
If your work relies on commercial vehicles, you’re likely in the crosshairs of this market shift. Rising commercial auto insurance costs are hitting many industries particularly hard.
Here are the top industries feeling the pressure:
HVAC & Plumbing Services – Require reliable fleet coverage for daily customer calls.
Food & Seafood Delivery – Must meet strict requirements to stay compliant.
Security & Low Voltage Installers – Frequent site visits mean higher exposure risks.
Construction & Skilled Trades – From painters to electricians, insured trucks are essential.
Janitorial & Cleaning Services – Often overlooked but heavily reliant on insured vans.
Mobile Service Providers – From auto detailing to mobile salons, commercial vehicle insurance is a lifeline.
Tow Truck & Roadside Assistance – Constant driving and emergency response lead to high-risk exposure.
Pest Control & Exterminators – Daily driving with tools, chemicals, and equipment.
Landscaping & Lawn Care Services – Transporting crews and heavy equipment across neighborhoods.
Pool & Spa Maintenance Providers – Regular travel with specialized equipment.
Appliance & Furniture Delivery – Heavy items, tight routes, and home access raise risk.
Event Setup & Rentals – Moving bounce houses, tents, and event gear in large commercial vehicles.
Mobile Mechanics & Tire Services – On-demand roadside repairs require full fleet protection.
Why the Sudden Hike in Costs?
The increase isn’t random. Here’s what’s driving it:
- Accident rates are rising, especially in growing urban and suburban areas
- Repairs and medical bills are more expensive than ever
- Litigation and insurance fraud are adding pressure to underwriting models
- Parts and vehicle shortages are inflating claim costs
These challenges are forcing many insurers to raise premiums, tighten rules, or limit coverage options entirely.
Here’s What You Can Do Today
Don’t wait until renewal season catches you off guard. Here’s how to stay in control:
- Work with a broker who offers multi-state coverage like Colstan. Colstan isn’t tied to one provider, which means more competitive options for you.
- Audit your policy: Are you covering inactive vehicles? Are all drivers current? These small changes can impact your rate.
- Plan your growth with insurance in mind: Don’t buy new trucks or enter new states without knowing how it affects your coverage.
- Ask about industry-specific programs: We’ve got custom coverage for trades, delivery, fleet, and more.
Why Service Businesses Trust Colstan
Colstan Insurance is built for businesses like yours. We understand that when your vehicles stop, your business stops, and that’s not an option.
With decades of experience and partnerships across multiple states, we help you stay ahead of market changes, control costs, and protect what matters most: your people, your property, and your profits.
Let’s Keep Your Business Moving
If rising commercial auto insurance costs are squeezing your margins, Colstan Insurance is here to help.
Book a free quote today and let’s talk strategy, not just quotes. Call
NY: 631-226-2800
NJ: 609-451-0844
FL: 727-608-4395
