From Baltimore to Hagerstown, Maryland is a vital logistics hub. Whether you are hauling containers out of the Port of Baltimore or distributing local loads in the dense Baltimore-Washington corridor, you are operating in an environment of intense traffic and strict regulations.
In Maryland, the Public Service Commission (PSC) regulates "For-Hire" intrastate carriers. Unlike many states where only the federal DOT matters, in Maryland, you may need to register your authority with the PSC and file Form E to keep your operation legal within the state.
In Maryland, the average commercial truck insurance premium typically lands between $11,000 and $17,000 per year. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to pay to keep your authority active.
Key Takeaways: Maryland Truck Insurance Costs
- The Price Tag: Expect to pay around $14,500 annually for a Semi-Truck with a clean record – Maryland is in the moderate-high cost tier due to I-95 traffic.
- Monthly Breakdown: A typical owner-operator pays roughly $1,200/month for Liability and $300/month for Physical Damage.
- The PSC Factor: Intrastate for-hire carriers must register with the Maryland PSC and maintain Form E on file.
- Baltimore Risk: Garaging in Baltimore zip codes can increase premiums by 15-20% compared to rural areas like Frederick or Salisbury.
Real Numbers: Estimated Costs by Truck Type
Let's look at the hard data. The following estimates represent the average annual cost for Auto Liability ($1M Limit) for a driver with a clean record in Maryland. Rates in Maryland are pressured by population density and accident risks in the I-95/I-495 corridor.
| Vehicle Type | Limit $300,000* | Limit $750,000 | Limit $1,000,000 (Standard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotshot | $7,800 | $10,500 | $12,500 |
| Box Truck | $6,200 | $8,500 | $10,200 |
| Dump Truck | $8,500 | $11,500 | $13,800 |
| Semi Truck | $10,500 | $13,500 | $15,500 |
| Tow Truck | $8,200 | $10,800 | $12,800 |
Last update: December 15, 2025.
Logrock Reality Check: While Maryland law allows lower limits ($50k/$100k) for certain light intrastate vehicles, most commercial contracts and brokers will require $1,000,000 in liability. If you plan to enter the Port of Baltimore, $1M is the absolute minimum, often with additional General Liability coverage.
Liability Limits: Intrastate vs. Interstate
Maryland rules change depending on whether you cross state lines. We have broken this down into two tables to make it clear.
Table 1: Intrastate Requirements (Maryland PSC / MVA)
For trucks that never leave Maryland (e.g., Annapolis to Frederick).
| Vehicle Weight / Type | Minimum Liability Limit | Filing Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Freight < 10,000 lbs | $300,000 CSL | Yes (Form E) |
| Freight > 10,001 lbs | $750,000 CSL | Yes (Form E) |
| Hazmat (Petroleum/Gas) | $1,000,000 - $5,000,000 | Yes (Form E) |
| Passenger (1-7 seats) | $50k/$100k/$20k or $120k CSL | Yes (Form E) |
| Passenger (16+ seats) | $500,000 CSL | Yes (Form E) |
Note: "CSL" means Combined Single Limit. For-Hire carriers must maintain Form E on file with the PSC to avoid revocation of intrastate authority.
Table 2: Interstate Requirements (FMCSA / Federal)
For trucks that cross state lines (e.g., Baltimore, MD to Washington, DC).
| Vehicle Weight / Type | Minimum Liability Limit | Filing Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Freight < 10,000 lbs | $300,000 CSL | No (Unless Hazmat) |
| Freight > 10,001 lbs | $750,000 CSL | Yes (BMC-91X) |
| Hazmat (Gas/Oil/Explosives) | $1,000,000 - $5,000,000 | Yes (MCS-90) |
| Passenger (16+ seats) | $5,000,000 CSL | Yes (BMC-91X) |
Maryland Requirements & Critical Filings
To operate legally, your insurance agent must submit specific electronic forms.
- Form E: Mandatory for Intrastate For-Hire carriers. It proves to the Maryland PSC/MVA that you have the required liability insurance. Without this, your intrastate authority can be suspended.
- PIP (Personal Injury Protection): Maryland requires a minimum of $2,500 PIP coverage on auto policies unless formally waived. Check that your commercial policy meets this state requirement.
- UIIA (Uniform Intermodal Interchange): Essential if you haul containers in or out of the Port of Baltimore. Requires specific Trailer Interchange and General Liability endorsements.
- MCS-90: The federal endorsement proving financial responsibility, critical for interstate carriers.
Your Questions Answered: "People Also Ask" FAQs
Yes. Maryland requires all commercial vehicles above 10,001 lbs (GVW) to obtain a USDOT number, even if they never cross state lines.
Traffic density and accident rates. The DC/Baltimore metro area has some of the most congested roads in the country. The risk of minor collisions (fender-benders) is very high, which drives up premiums.
It is a certificate that your insurer submits electronically to the state confirming your liability policy is active. If you cancel your insurance, a Form K is sent, and the state will suspend your operating authority.
The Logrock Difference: We Master the I-95 Corridor
Operating in Maryland requires precision. An error on your Form E or a missing UIIA endorsement can leave your load stranded at the port while demurrage fees pile up. At Logrock, we handle the bureaucracy. We ensure your Form E is filed instantly with the PSC and that your policy has the right coverages for the Port of Baltimore or deliveries into DC.
Conclusion & Get Your Maryland Quote
Maryland offers great freight opportunities, but it demands strict compliance. Don't risk your business with a generic policy that leaves you exposed. Ready to get a solid number for your business? Contact Logrock today for a customized, no-obligation quote and keep your wheels turning.
