When most people hear the term marine insurance, they think of ships or ocean cargo. But inland marine insurance is something different—it covers property that’s transported or stored on land. Whether you run a construction company, transport valuable equipment, or operate a small business with movable assets, this type of insurance can protect you from costly losses.
In this guide, we’ll break down what inland marine insurance is, what it covers (and doesn’t cover), how much it costs, why it’s called inland marine insurance, and the best companies to get it from online.
What Is Inland Marine Insurance?
Inland marine insurance protects movable or specialized types of property that standard commercial property insurance doesn’t cover. It’s designed for items that travel over land, are frequently in transit, or are used at multiple locations.
Think of it as extra protection for your business assets when they’re not sitting in one fixed spot.
Inland Marine Insurance Examples
Here are a few inland marine insurance examples that show how this coverage works in real life:
- Construction equipment: Protects bulldozers, cranes, and tools that move from one job site to another.
- Electronics: Covers high-value items like computers, sound systems, or photography gear during transport or off-site use.
- Artwork: Insures fine art and collectibles being shipped or displayed at exhibitions.
- Medical equipment: Covers portable medical devices used by healthcare providers on the go.
- Trade show displays: Protects booths, banners, and promotional materials while traveling to or from events.
In short, if your property regularly leaves your business premises, inland marine insurance can safeguard it.
What Does Inland Marine Insurance Cover?
Inland marine insurance typically covers:
- Property in transit: Equipment, inventory, or materials being shipped between locations.
- Mobile equipment: Tools and machinery used at temporary sites.
- Property stored off-site: Goods stored in a warehouse or rented facility.
- Bailee’s customer goods: Property belonging to customers while in your care (e.g., dry cleaners, repair shops).
- Valuable papers and records: Data or documents transported or stored elsewhere.
This flexibility makes it one of the most versatile business insurance options available.
What Does Inland Marine Insurance Not Cover?
While it covers many types of risks, there are some things inland marine insurance does not cover, such as:
- Stationary property: Fixed assets covered by standard commercial property insurance.
- Vehicles: Cars, trucks, or licensed vehicles (these need auto insurance).
- Employee theft: Covered under crime insurance policies.
- Wear and tear: Regular depreciation or mechanical breakdowns.
- Intentional damage or neglect: Any loss caused by negligence or deliberate acts.
Knowing these exclusions helps you avoid coverage gaps and ensures your business is fully protected.
Why Is It Called Inland Marine Insurance?
The term “inland marine” might sound confusing since it deals with land-based property. Historically, marine insurance began as coverage for cargo traveling across oceans. As trade expanded inland through railroads and trucks, insurers adapted marine insurance policies to cover goods transported over land—hence the name “inland marine insurance.”
It’s an old term, but the concept is still relevant in today’s mobile business world.
Types of Inland Marine Insurance
There are several types of inland marine insurance tailored to different industries and property types:
- Contractor’s Equipment Insurance – For construction tools and machinery.
- Installation Floater – Covers materials until installation is complete.
- Transportation Insurance – For goods shipped by truck, rail, or air.
- Fine Arts Floater – Protects art pieces on loan, in transit, or on exhibit.
- Bailee’s Coverage – Covers customer property in your custody.
- Electronic Data Processing (EDP) Coverage – Protects computers, servers, and related equipment.
Each type can be customized depending on your business operations.
Inland Marine Insurance Cost
The cost of inland marine insurance depends on several factors, including:
- Value of the property insured
- Type of property (e.g., construction tools vs. artwork)
- Coverage limits and deductibles
- Frequency of transport or use off-site
- Business location and industry risk level
On average, small businesses may pay between $300 to $2,500 per year. High-value or high-risk industries can expect higher premiums. Getting multiple quotes online is the best way to find accurate pricing.
Best Inland Marine Insurance Companies
Some of the best inland marine insurance companies offering reliable coverage include:
- The Hartford – Known for flexible inland marine policies and excellent business coverage options.
- Travelers Insurance – Offers specialized inland marine protection for contractors and transporters.
- Nationwide – Provides tailored coverage for mobile businesses and small enterprises.
- Liberty Mutual – Great for mid to large-size businesses with custom coverage needs.
- Progressive Commercial – Offers inland marine insurance online with simple application processes.
- Chubb – Ideal for high-value assets like art, jewelry, and fine instruments.
Comparing multiple providers online ensures you find the best policy that fits your business needs and budget.
Inland Marine Insurance Online
Today, getting inland marine insurance online is fast and convenient. Most insurers offer instant quotes, digital applications, and flexible payment plans. When applying, you’ll typically need to provide:
- Type of property you want to insure
- Estimated value of the property
- Frequency and method of transport
- Business industry and size
Many online platforms allow you to adjust your coverage and receive immediate proof of insurance once approved.
Conclusion
Inland marine insurance is an essential safeguard for any business that moves equipment, goods, or valuable property between locations. It protects assets that standard property insurance doesn’t cover and ensures your operations stay financially secure even if something goes wrong in transit.
By understanding what inland marine insurance covers, what it doesn’t, how much it costs, and the top companies offering it online, you can make an informed choice that keeps your business protected on the move.