Commercial Inland Marine Insurance

Protect Your Business Assets On The Move

Commercial Inland Marine Insurance provides essential coverage for business property that moves from location to location or is stored at various sites. Unlike standard commercial property insurance, inland marine coverage follows your valuable equipment, tools, and goods wherever they go.

Whether you’re a contractor transporting expensive equipment to job sites, a business shipping valuable goods, or a company with specialized mobile property, inland marine insurance ensures your assets are protected against theft, damage, and loss during transit and at temporary locations.

$500K+

Coverage Available

What Is Commercial Inland Marine Insurance?

Beyond Standard Property Insurance

Despite its name, “inland marine” insurance has nothing to do with water. The term originated from ocean marine insurance and evolved to cover goods transported over land. Today, it protects business property that:

Why Standard Policies Fall Short

Standard commercial property insurance typically only covers property at a fixed location listed on your policy. This creates significant gaps for businesses with mobile assets:

Pro Tip

Inland marine insurance is often called a "floater" policy because coverage "floats" with your property wherever it goes. This makes it ideal for contractors, photographers, medical equipment companies, and any business with valuable mobile assets.

Types of Inland Marine Coverage

Inland marine insurance encompasses various specialized policies designed to protect different types of mobile business property.

Contractors Equipment

Covers tools, machinery, and equipment used by contractors at job sites and during transport.

Electronic Data Processing

Protects computers, servers, and electronic equipment essential to your business operations.

Valuable Papers & Records

Covers the cost to reconstruct important business documents and records if damaged or destroyed.

Transportation/Motor Truck Cargo

Protects goods and merchandise while being transported by your vehicles or common carriers.

Installation Floater

Covers equipment and materials during installation at customer locations until project completion.

Scientific & Medical Equipment

Specialized coverage for expensive medical devices and scientific instruments.

Property Types We Cover

From heavy construction equipment to delicate electronics, inland marine insurance protects a wide range of business assets.

Construction & Contracting

Technology & Electronics

Medical & Scientific

Photography & Film

Common Covered Perils

Fire & Smoke

Water Damage

Theft & Vandalism

Weather Events

Collision

Accidental Damage

Is Inland Marine Insurance Right for Your Business?

If your business owns, uses, or transports valuable equipment or goods that travel beyond your primary location, inland marine insurance is essential. This coverage is particularly important for businesses that:

Serving Iowa Businesses

Des Moines, Bondurant, Ankeny, West Des Moines, and surrounding areas throughout Iowa.

Contractors & Builders

Protect expensive tools and equipment at multiple job sites.

Transportation & Logistics

Cover goods and cargo during transit across the country.

Photographers & Filmmakers

Safeguard cameras, lenses, and production equipment on location.

Healthcare Providers

Protect portable medical devices and diagnostic equipment.

Event & Trade Show Companies

Cover displays, equipment, and materials at various venues.

Retailers & Wholesalers

Protect inventory during shipping and at temporary locations.

Inland Marine Claims Examples

See how inland marine insurance has helped businesses recover from unexpected losses and continue operations.

Contractor Equipment Theft

$45,000 Claim

Scenario

A contractor’s trailer containing $45,000 worth of power tools and equipment was stolen overnight from a job site.

Outcome

Inland marine insurance covered the full replacement cost, allowing the contractor to purchase new equipment and continue operations within days.

Photography Equipment Damage

$12,000 Claim

Scenario

A wedding photographer’s camera bag was accidentally dropped, damaging $12,000 worth of cameras and lenses during a destination shoot.

Outcome

The equipment floater policy covered repair and replacement costs, including expedited shipping for a rental while repairs were completed.

Cargo Damage in Transit

$28,000 Claim

Scenario A shipment of custom furniture worth $28,000 was damaged when the delivery truck was involved in an accident. Outcome Motor truck cargo coverage paid for the damaged goods, allowing the business to fulfill the customer order without financial loss.

IT Equipment Water Damage

$35,000 Claim

Scenario

A technology company’s portable servers and networking equipment were damaged by a burst pipe at a client’s location.

Outcome

EDP coverage reimbursed the cost of equipment replacement and data recovery services, totaling $35,000.

Claims Satisfaction

0 %

Average Response Time

0 -48 hrs

Claims Processed Annually

$ 0 M+

Industry Experience

0 + Years

25+

Years Protecting Iowa Businesses

Why Choose Densmore Insurance?

At Densmore Insurance Strategies, we understand that your mobile business assets are essential to your operations. Our team specializes in crafting comprehensive inland marine coverage that protects your equipment, tools, and goods wherever business takes you.

Independent Agency

We work with multiple carriers to find the best coverage and rates for your specific needs.

Tailored Coverage

Tailored inland marine coverage designed around your unique business operations and assets.

Local Iowa Expertise

Deep understanding of Iowa businesses and the specific risks they face.

Dedicated Support

Personal attention from experienced agents who know your business and coverage.

Fast Claims Advocacy

We advocate on your behalf to ensure quick and fair claim settlements.

Competitive Pricing

Access to multiple carriers means competitive rates without sacrificing coverage.

Inland Marine Insurance FAQs

Get answers to frequently asked questions about commercial inland marine insurance coverage.

What is the difference between inland marine and commercial property insurance?

Commercial property insurance typically covers property at a fixed location listed on your policy. Inland marine insurance provides coverage for property that moves between locations, is stored at temporary sites, or requires specialized coverage beyond standard policies. Think of it as “floating” coverage that follows your assets wherever they go.

What types of property does inland marine insurance cover?

Inland marine insurance covers a wide range of mobile business property including contractor tools and equipment, computers and electronics, cameras and photography gear, medical equipment, goods in transit, installation materials, valuable papers and records, and specialized machinery. Coverage can be customized based on your specific business needs.

How much does commercial inland marine insurance cost?

The cost varies based on several factors including the type and value of property being insured, your industry, claims history, and coverage limits. Generally, premiums range from $500 to $2,500+ annually for small to medium businesses. We can provide a customized quote based on your specific needs.

Is inland marine insurance required by law?

While not legally required, inland marine insurance is often required by contracts, especially for contractors working on construction projects. Many clients and general contractors require proof of equipment coverage before allowing subcontractors on job sites. It’s also essential for protecting your business investment.

Does inland marine insurance cover theft?

Yes, theft is one of the primary perils covered by inland marine insurance. This includes theft from job sites, vehicles, storage locations, and during transit. Coverage typically includes both the property itself and any resulting business interruption costs.

Can I get coverage for leased or rented equipment?

Yes, inland marine policies can be structured to cover leased or rented equipment. This is particularly important for contractors who rent heavy machinery or businesses that lease specialized equipment. Coverage can include both the equipment value and any contractual liability.

What is a "floater" policy?

A floater policy is another name for inland marine insurance. It’s called a “floater” because the coverage “floats” with your property wherever it goes, rather than being tied to a specific location. This makes it ideal for mobile business assets that travel between job sites or locations.

How do I file an inland marine insurance claim?

To file a claim, contact Densmore Insurance immediately after discovering the loss or damage. Document the incident with photos and gather any relevant information (police reports for theft, witness statements, etc.). Our team will guide you through the claims process and advocate on your behalf with the insurance carrier.

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Phone

(515) 967-3390

Email

info@densmoreis.com

Address

85 Paine Street SE, Suite G, Bondurant, Iowa 50035nn