For a single-truck owner-operator running regional WA freight in 2026, annual premiums typically run $8,000–$14,000 for liability, physical damage, and cargo combined. Long-haul, hazmat, and new-authority operations run $15,000–$25,000+.
Factors that push it up: new authority (under 12 months), driver under 25 or over 70, prior at-fault losses, DOT violations, hazmat, high-value cargo, radius over 500 miles, and older MC numbers with lapses.
Factors that pull it down: 3+ years CDL, clean MVR, telematics/dashcam programs, higher deductibles, paid-in-full discount, and bundling with occupational accident or workers' comp.
The single biggest lever is loss history. Two chargeable losses in three years can double your premium — or price you out of standard markets entirely.
Independent agencies matter here more than in personal lines. Each carrier has an appetite: some love owner-operators, some only touch fleets of 10+, some won't write anything under three years' operating history. Getting to the right market saves real money.