Deciphering Insurance: Ensuring the Protection You Expect is There
2pm April 29, 2026
Session Summary Insurance is a critical part of the screening process for both brokers and motor carriers, requiring more than just a surface-level review of a certificate. In this session, industry legend Tommy Ruke, founder of the Motor Carrier Insurance Education Foundation (MCIEF), and insurance operations expert Andy Sharpe, CEO of meshVI, move beyond the standard Certificate of Insurance (COI) to review the technical policy mechanics that determine if a claim is actually covered. They will demonstrate how to use public data and modern tools to evaluate the quality of a partner, identify common “Restriction Gaps” in modern policies, and bridge the communication loop between the broker, the carrier, and the retail agent. Attendees will walk away with a clear process for verifying that the necessary coverages are active and aligned with their operational risks.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this two-hour intensive, attendees will be better able to:
- Analyze Public Data & Modern Tools: Evaluate how safety ratings, public filings, and real-time data reflect the actual quality and risk profile of a partner.
- Decipher Policy Mechanics: Review specific insurance terms, conditions, and “Restriction Gaps” that determine if coverage protects the parties involved.
- Navigate Contractual Liability: Understand the legal standing of a freight broker in a cargo claim and the contractual power required to settle with adjusters.
- Optimize the Communication Loop: Manage the vital flow of information between the Broker, the Motor Carrier, and the Retail Agent to ensure seamless protection.
- Execute Modernized Verification: Implement a step-by-step process using digital tools to confirm that proper coverages are active and in place before a load is assigned.