Operating a trucking company in Rhode Island means navigating the "Ocean State's" busy ports and the congested I-95 artery connecting New York and Boston.
For regulatory purposes, the Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC) oversees intrastate trucking. If you haul goods for hire point-to-point within Rhode Island, you must obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN).
Unlike many states that only require insurance filings for passengers or movers, Rhode Island requires Form E (Liability) and often Form H (Cargo) for general freight carriers holding intrastate authority.
In Rhode Island, the average commercial truck insurance premium typically lands between $10,500 and $16,500 per year. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to pay to keep your DPUC authority active.
Key Takeaways: Rhode Island Truck Insurance Costs
- The Price Tag: Expect to pay around $13,200 annually for a Semi-Truck with a clean record. Rates are influenced by the high cost of living and repair in the Northeast.
- Monthly Breakdown: A typical owner-operator pays roughly $1,100/month for Liability and $250/month for Physical Damage.
- The DPUC Factor: Intrastate carriers must apply for a certificate from the DPUC ($250 fee) and maintain active Form E and Form H filings.
- Cargo Filing: Rhode Island is one of the few states that mandates Form H (Cargo Insurance) filings for general freight common carriers, not just household goods movers.
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 Rhode Island. Rhode Island is a "Tier 2" (Moderate/High) cost state due to population density and the frequency of accidents on I-95 and Route 146.
| Vehicle Type | Limit $300,000* | Limit $750,000 | Limit $1,000,000 (Standard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotshot | $7,800 | $10,500 | $12,200 |
| Box Truck | $6,500 | $8,800 | $10,500 |
| Dump Truck | $8,800 | $11,500 | $13,800 |
| Semi Truck | $10,200 | $12,800 | $14,500 |
| Tow Truck | $9,500 | $12,200 | $14,200 |
Last updated: December 15, 2025.
Logrock Reality Check: While state law allows $300,000 liability for vehicles under 10,000 lbs, accessing the Port of Providence (ProvPort) or hauling for major distributors requires $1,000,000 Liability and General Liability coverage.
Liability Limits: Intrastate vs. Interstate
Rhode Island 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 (RI DPUC)
For trucks that never leave Rhode Island (e.g., Warwick to Pawtucket).
| Vehicle Weight / Type | Minimum Liability Limit | Filing Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Freight < 10,000 lbs GVW | $300,000 CSL | Yes (Form E) |
| Freight > 10,001 lbs GVW | $750,000 CSL | Yes (Form E) |
| General Freight (Common Carrier) | $750,000 + Cargo | Yes (Form E + Form H) |
| Household Goods (Movers) | $300k - $750k + Cargo | Yes (Form E + Form H) |
| Passenger (16+ seats) | $5,000,000 CSL | Yes (Form E) |
Note: "CSL" means Combined Single Limit. Critical: To get your CPCN (Intrastate Authority), you must file Form E (Liability) AND Form H (Cargo) with the DPUC. Most states do not require Form H for general freight, but Rhode Island does.
Table 2: Interstate Requirements (FMCSA / Federal)
For trucks that cross state lines (e.g., Providence, RI to Boston, MA).
| 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) |
Rhode Island Requirements & Critical Filings
To operate legally, your insurance agent must submit specific forms to the DPUC.
- Form E: Mandatory for Intrastate for-hire carriers. It proves to the DPUC that you have valid liability insurance. Without this, your application for authority will be rejected.
- Form H (Cargo): Rhode Island regulations typically require Common Carriers of property to carry cargo insurance and file Form H as proof. The minimum cargo limit is usually $10,000, but commercially you need $100,000.
- CPCN Application: The application for authority costs $250. It requires a criminal background check (BCI) and financial statement review.
- UCR: Rhode Island participates in the Unified Carrier Registration system.
Your Questions Answered: "People Also Ask" FAQs
Yes. Rhode Island adopts federal safety regulations. All commercial vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVW must obtain a USDOT number.
The DPUC strictly regulates towing. Tow operators must maintain specific storage facility standards and insurance limits. The high risk of operating on narrow, busy highways like I-95 and I-195 drives up premiums.
Only if you are a "Contract Carrier" dedicated to specific customers, in some cases. However, if you are a "Common Carrier" (open to the public), the DPUC generally mandates the Form H filing to protect the public's goods.
The Logrock Difference: We Handle the DPUC Paperwork
Rhode Island is small but strict. If your agent forgets to file Form H for your cargo, your DPUC application will stall, and you won't be able to put plates on your truck. At Logrock, we handle the compliance heavy lifting. We file Form E and Form H instantly with the DPUC in Warwick. We also help you find the right coverage for navigating the Northeast corridor without overpaying.
Conclusion & Get Your Rhode Island Quote
Don't let a missing cargo filing stop your business in the Ocean State. Ready to get a solid number for your business? Contact Logrock today for a customized, no-obligation quote and keep your wheels turning.
