From the container yards of Charleston to the pine forests of the Midlands and the manufacturing hub of the Upstate, South Carolina keeps truckers busy.
If you operate strictly within the state (Intrastate), you fall under the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Public Service Commission (PSC). Unlike some states that have deregulated general freight, South Carolina requires for-hire carriers to obtain a Class E Certificate and file Form E to prove insurance coverage.
Additionally, if you haul containers out of the Port of Charleston, standard auto liability isn't enough. You need Intermodal (UIIA) endorsements and often General Liability to satisfy the steamship lines.
In South Carolina, the average commercial truck insurance premium typically lands between $8,500 and $14,500 per year. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to pay to keep your PSC authority and port access active.
Key Takeaways: South Carolina Truck Insurance Costs
- The Price Tag: Expect to pay around $11,500 annually for a Semi-Truck with a clean record. SC is generally a "Tier 3" (Affordable) state.
- Port Access: To enter the SC Ports Authority (Charleston/Greer), you need $1,000,000 Auto Liability, $1,000,000 General Liability, and a UIIA endorsement.
- PSC Authority: Intrastate carriers (Class E) must apply to the PSC/ORS and file Form E.
- Logging: Timber is a massive industry here. Log trucks require "Loggers Broad Form" coverage because accidents often happen on dirt roads or loading sites, which standard policies exclude.
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 South Carolina. While base rates are low, Intermodal (Container) haulers pay more due to the specific contract requirements of the Uniform Intermodal Interchange (UIIA).
| Vehicle Type | Limit $300,000* | Limit $750,000 | Limit $1,000,000 (Standard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotshot | $6,800 | $8,500 | $9,800 |
| Box Truck | $5,500 | $7,200 | $8,500 |
| Dump Truck | $7,200 | $9,800 | $11,500 |
| Semi (General) | $8,800 | $11,200 | $12,800 |
| Semi (Intermodal) | N/A | $12,500 | $14,500 |
Last updated: December 15, 2025.
Logrock Reality Check: If you plan to haul containers, do not just buy "truck insurance." You must tell your agent you need "UIIA Coverage." This adds specific language to your policy that covers the non-owned trailer (the container chassis) while it is attached to your truck. Without this, the port will not give you an interchange badge.
Liability Limits: Intrastate vs. Interstate
South Carolina 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 (SC PSC / ORS)
For trucks that never leave South Carolina (e.g., Charleston to Columbia).
| 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) |
| Hazmat (Gas/Oil) | $1,000,000 - $5,000,000 | Yes (Form E) |
| Household Goods (Class F) | $300k - $750k + Cargo | Yes (Form E + H) |
| Passenger (16+ seats) | $5,000,000 CSL | Yes (Form E) |
Note: "CSL" means Combined Single Limit. Intrastate carriers apply for a Class E Certificate (General Freight) or Class F Certificate (Movers). You must file Form E to activate this certificate.
Table 2: Interstate Requirements (FMCSA / Federal)
For trucks that cross state lines (e.g., Greenville, SC to Charlotte, NC).
| 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) |
South Carolina Requirements & Critical Filings
To operate legally, your insurance agent must submit specific forms to the SC PSC.
- Form E: Mandatory for Intrastate for-hire carriers (Class E & F). It proves to the PSC that you have valid liability insurance. Without this, your certificate is revoked.
- Form H: Mandatory for Household Goods Movers (Class F) to prove Cargo Insurance coverage.
- UIIA Endorsement: Required for accessing the Port of Charleston. This is a private contract requirement (not state law), but it is essential for business. It covers Trailer Interchange and holds the steamship line harmless.
- Loggers Broad Form: Essential for timber haulers to cover loading/unloading accidents in the woods.
Your Questions Answered: "People Also Ask" FAQs
Yes. South Carolina adopts federal safety regulations. All commercial vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVW must obtain a USDOT number, even if they never cross state lines.
Because you are insuring equipment you don't own (the chassis and container) and assuming liability for it under the UIIA contract. The port environment also has a high frequency of minor accidents (backing into things), leading to more claims.
No. Private Carriers (hauling your own product) are exempt from PSC economic regulation. You do not need a Class E certificate or Form E filing, but you still need a USDOT number and liability insurance.
The Logrock Difference: We Know the Port
South Carolina is a gateway to the world. If your agent doesn't understand the difference between Bobtail Liability and UIIA coverage, you will be stuck at the Wando Welch Terminal gate. At Logrock, we handle the compliance heavy lifting. We file your Form E with the PSC for intrastate work, and we ensure your policy has the General Liability and Trailer Interchange limits required by the SC Ports Authority.
Conclusion & Get Your South Carolina Quote
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, South Carolina offers prime opportunities for truckers. Ensure your paperwork is as solid as your driving. Ready to get a solid number for your business? Contact Logrock today for a customized, no-obligation quote and keep your wheels turning.
