National Indemnity Review 2026

Coverage Options

National Indemnity provides commercial trucking insurance primarily through independent agents and specialized trucking insurance brokers:

Primary Liability Insurance: Comprehensive liability coverage meeting FMCSA requirements with limits from $750,000 to $1 million or higher.[^6] Their underwriting tends to favor established operations with clean safety records.

Physical Damage Coverage: Protection for tractors and trailers with actual cash value or stated amount options. Deductibles are typically available from $1,000 to $5,000, with potential premium savings for higher deductibles.

Motor Truck Cargo Insurance: Broad form cargo coverage with options for specialized commodities. Refrigeration breakdown coverage is available for temperature-controlled operations.

General Liability: Available for trucking operations needing premises and operations coverage beyond auto liability.

Umbrella/Excess Liability: Higher limit coverage for operations requiring protection above primary policy limits.

Claims Process

This is where the Berkshire Hathaway backing truly matters. National Indemnity has the financial resources to pay claims promptly without the delays that can plague smaller insurers. Their claims department operates professionally with experienced adjusters familiar with trucking losses.

Large claims that might strain other insurers are handled without hesitation. For trucking companies, this peace of mind has real value, particularly when facing catastrophic loss scenarios.

Response times are generally good, with claims typically acknowledged within 24-48 hours. The company maintains a network of approved repair facilities and has established relationships with trucking-focused adjusters across the country.

Customer Service

National Indemnity primarily operates through the independent agent channel, meaning your service experience depends significantly on your chosen agent or broker. The company provides solid back-office support, but direct interaction with National Indemnity representatives is less common than with some competitors.

For established fleets working with experienced trucking insurance agents, this model works well. Operators preferring direct insurer relationships may find the approach less personal.

Policy management and certificates of insurance are handled efficiently, important for trucking companies managing broker and shipper requirements.

Additional Benefits

Financial Strength: National Indemnity maintains an A++ (Superior) rating from AM Best, the highest possible.[^2][^3] This reflects exceptional claims-paying ability and balance sheet strength.

Market Stability: While other trucking insurers have entered and exited the market during industry downturns, National Indemnity has remained a consistent presence for over 80 years.[^1] This stability means reliable coverage availability even during hard market cycles.

Fleet Programs: Competitive pricing structures for larger fleets with strong safety records and experienced drivers.

Risk Management Resources: Access to loss control services and safety resources through their commercial programs.

Final Verdict

National Indemnity offers something increasingly rare in trucking insurance: absolute financial certainty. When Berkshire Hathaway stands behind your policy, you know with confidence that valid claims will be paid, period.

However, this is not the insurer for every trucking operation. Their conservative underwriting means new authorities and operators with challenging loss histories may struggle to qualify. Additionally, the agent-driven distribution model means service quality varies based on your local representation.

For established fleets with good records seeking maximum security and competitive rates, National Indemnity deserves serious consideration. The Berkshire Hathaway connection is not just marketing; it represents genuine financial strength that protects your trucking operation.

Rating: 4.1/5 - Exceptional financial backing and stability for qualifying operations, though less accessible for newer or non-standard risks.