Understanding the MCS-90 Endorsement for Commercial Trucking Insurance
What Trucking Companies Need to Know
If you own or operate a commercial trucking business, you may have heard about the MCS-90 endorsement. While it might seem like just another piece of paperwork, it plays a major role in keeping your trucking operation compliant with FMCSA insurance requirements. It can also impact your commercial truck insurance coverage in ways many drivers and fleet owners don’t realize.
This guide will walk you through what the MCS-90 is, why it matters for motor carriers, and how it works alongside your trucking liability insurance.
What is an MCS-90 Endorsement
The MCS-90 endorsement is a required form that gets added to certain commercial auto liability insurance policies. It is mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for motor carriers, freight brokers, and freight forwarders who operate under federal authority.
In simple terms, the MCS-90 says that if your trucking company is responsible for injury or property damage while transporting goods in interstate commerce, your insurance company will pay the claim even if the event would not normally be covered by your policy.
Why the MCS-90 is Required for Trucking Companies
The FMCSA MCS-90 requirement exists to protect the public. If a commercial truck causes an accident and the insurance policy would not cover it, the MCS-90 makes sure the injured party still receives payment.
Without the MCS-90, your company could face heavy fines or even lose its operating authority. It is a safety net for the public and a legal requirement for many trucking businesses.
Who Needs an MCS-90 Endorsement
You need an MCS-90 endorsement if:
- You are a for-hire motor carrier operating in interstate trucking
- You haul freight or passengers across state lines
- You are required to file proof of financial responsibility with the FMCSA
If you only operate inside one state and do not file with the FMCSA, you likely do not need this endorsement — but most interstate trucking companies do.
How the MCS-90 Works with Your Trucking Insurance Policy
The MCS-90 is not a full insurance policy. It is an agreement between your insurance provider and the federal government that ensures certain claims will be paid to protect the public.
If your insurer pays a claim under the MCS-90 that your policy would not normally cover, they can require you to reimburse them.
This can happen if:
- You cause an accident hauling a type of cargo not listed in your policy
- The incident happens outside your coverage area
- You did not have the proper trucking insurance coverage for the load you were carrying
To avoid this, it’s important to have the right commercial trucking insurance policy that matches your actual routes and cargo types.
Common Misunderstandings About the MCS-90
- It covers every trucking accident – Not true. The MCS-90 only applies in certain cases to protect the public.
- Only large trucking fleets need it – Many small owner-operators who cross state lines need an MCS-90 endorsement too.
- It protects me from lawsuits – The MCS-90 ensures injured parties are paid but it does not remove your legal or financial responsibility.
Why You Need an Insurance Agent Who Understands Commercial Trucking
The MCS-90 endorsement is about more than following federal rules. It’s about protecting your business from costly risks. Working with an insurance agency that specializes in commercial truck insurance ensures you:
- Meet FMCSA insurance requirements
- Avoid gaps in your trucking liability coverage
- Stay up to date on motor carrier insurance regulations
Final Thoughts on the MCS-90 Endorsement
The MCS-90 endorsement may seem like a small detail, but for interstate trucking companies it is a critical part of staying compliant and financially protected. Knowing how it works and keeping your commercial trucking insurance policy up to date will save you from costly mistakes.
If you are unsure whether your trucking insurance policy includes the right coverage or MCS-90 endorsement, our team can help. We provide motor carrier insurance and commercial truck insurance for fleets, owner-operators, and freight brokers in Texas, Arkansas, and Arizona.