Montana is "Big Sky Country," and for truckers, that means long miles, extreme weather, and unique regulations. Unlike many states where every truck needs an "authority certificate," Montana has largely deregulated intrastate general freight.
In Montana, if you haul general freight (dry van, flatbed, grain), you generally don't need a Public Service Commission (PSC) certificate. Instead, your "authority" is tied to paying Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) Fees to the state. However, if you haul Garbage or Household Goods, the rules are much stricter, and you must file Form E.
In Montana, the average commercial truck insurance premium typically lands between $9,000 and $14,500 per year. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to pay to keep your trucks legal in the Rockies.
Key Takeaways: Montana Truck Insurance Costs
- The Price Tag: Expect to pay around $10,800 annually for a Semi-Truck with a clean record.
- Monthly Breakdown: A typical owner-operator pays roughly $850/month for Liability and $250/month for Physical Damage.
- The "GVW" System: For most general freight, you don't need a specific operating authority number. You simply register the truck and pay the GVW Fees based on weight.
- Wildlife Risk: Montana has some of the highest rates of animal collisions (elk, moose, deer). Comprehensive (Physical Damage) coverage is expensive but essential here.
- PSC Authority: Only required for specific carriers like Garbage Haulers (Class D) and Movers (Class E).
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 Montana. While Liability is affordable due to low traffic density, "Physical Damage" is high. A single slide on black ice or an elk impact can total a rig instantly.
| Vehicle Type | Limit $300,000* | Limit $750,000 | Limit $1,000,000 (Standard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotshot | $6,500 | $8,200 | $9,500 |
| Box Truck | $5,200 | $6,800 | $8,200 |
| Dump Truck | $7,000 | $9,200 | $10,800 |
| Semi Truck | $8,500 | $10,500 | $12,500 |
| Livestock Hauler | $9,200 | $11,500 | $13,200 |
Last updated: December 15, 2025.
Logrock Reality Check: If you haul Livestock, standard cargo insurance often excludes "Live Animals." You need a specialized Livestock Mortality or Cargo endorsement. Additionally, auction yards often mandate $1,000,000 liability.
Liability Limits: Intrastate vs. Interstate
Montana 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 (MDT / PSC)
For trucks that never leave Montana (e.g., Missoula to Billings).
| Vehicle Weight / Type | Minimum Liability Limit | Filing Required? |
|---|---|---|
| General Freight (Class B) | $100k/$300k/$50k Split | No (Proof in Cab) |
| Garbage (Class D) | $750,000 CSL | Yes (Form E/PSC) |
| Household Goods (Movers) | $750,000 + Cargo Ins. | Yes (Form E/PSC) |
| Passenger (16+ seats) | $1,000,000 - $5,000,000 | Yes (Form E/ PSC) |
Note: "Split" means $100k per person / $300k per accident / $50k property damage. Critical: General Freight carriers (Class B) are deregulated. You do NOT need to file Form E. You just need to carry proof of insurance in the cab and pay GVW fees.
Table 2: Interstate Requirements (FMCSA / Federal)
For trucks that cross state lines (e.g., Billings, MT to Sheridan, WY).
| 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) |
Montana Requirements & Critical Filings
To operate legally, your insurance agent must understand the difference between a PSC carrier and a General Freight carrier.
- Form E: Mandatory ONLY for PSC-regulated carriers (Garbage, Movers, Passengers). It proves to the Public Service Commission that you have insurance. General freight haulers do not file this.
- GVW Fees: In Montana, your right to operate is tied to weight. You must declare your Gross Vehicle Weight and pay the associated fees to the State/County. You must show an insurance card to register.
- UCR: Montana participates in the Unified Carrier Registration system.
- Form H: Mandatory for Household Goods Movers (Class E) to prove Cargo Insurance coverage.
Your Questions Answered: "People Also Ask" FAQs
No. Agricultural commodities and general freight are deregulated (Class B). You do not need a PSC certificate or a Form E filing. You just need a USDOT number and must pay your GVW fees.
Wildlife and Weather. Montana highways have high speed limits (80 mph) and frequent large animal crossings. Hitting an elk at 80 mph is almost always a total loss. Insurers price this risk into your comprehensive premium.
Legally, yes, for intrastate general freight. However, commercially, it is risky. If you cause a pileup on I-90 during a snowstorm, $300,000 will be exhausted immediately, putting your personal assets at risk. Most brokers require $1M.
The Logrock Difference: We Know the Big Sky
Montana's regulations are confusing because they are "loose" for some and "tight" for others. Many out-of-state agents try to file a Form E for a grain hauler, which the state will just reject. At Logrock, we simplify the process. We know when you need a PSC filing and when you just need a solid ID card to show at the weigh station. We help you find the best coverage for winter conditions without selling you unnecessary filings.
Conclusion & Get Your Montana Quote
Montana offers freedom for truckers, but the environment is unforgiving. Ensure your policy is built for the mountains, not just the minimums. Ready to get a solid number for your business? Contact Logrock today for a customized, no-obligation quote and keep your wheels turning.
