Holiday Highways – Meeting the Insurance Needs of Cross-Border Trucking During Peak Season

December 23rd, 2024

When you think of Santa delivering gifts, what comes to mind?  A sleigh?  Reindeer?  Well, in the Trucking world, those goods are riding in 18-wheelers, not a sleigh—and this holiday season, it's B-1 Visa Truck Drivers working overtime to deliver the magic.  But here's the kicker—they don't always have the insurance coverage they need.

For Insurance Agents, this season doesn't just bring holiday cheer but an incredible opportunity to deliver peace of mind.  Let's unwrap how our new Truckers Inbound Travel Insurance policy, developed in partnership with Convex US, can empower your clients by solving one of the industry's most overlooked pain points.

Cross-Border Trucking and the Rising Demand for Insurance

With U.S.-Mexico trade hitting a record $415 billion in the first half of 2024, it's clear the literal and figurative highways connecting these two nations are busier than ever.  For perspective, trade with Canada—our second-largest partner—trailed behind at $383 billion, and China came in third at just $269 billion.  The numbers don't lie; Mexico has firmly cemented its status as America's top trade partner.

And guess who's making that happen?  Mexican B-1 Visa Truck Drivers.  These professionals are indispensable, ensuring cross-border trade runs smoothly, especially during the bustling holiday season when shipping demand surges.  However, many B-1 Visa Truck Drivers operate in the U.S. without adequate coverage, leaving them—and the U.S.-based Motor Carriers utilizing them—vulnerable to disastrous claims in case of an accident.

The Coverage Gap

If your Motor Carrier clients believe they’re already protected, it’s worth having a deeper conversation.  Many trucking companies think their existing policies are “good enough,” but the truth is, they rarely are in the context of cross-border operations.

It's easy to assume that common insurance options—like Workers Compensation, Occupational Accident Insurance or Health Insurance—would suffice for B-1 Visa Truck Drivers.  However, this misconception can leave your clients exposed. 

Here’s why:

• Workers Compensation – This coverage doesn't apply to Mexican and Canadian drivers operating under a U.S. visa framework. 

• Occupational Accident Insurance – B-1 Visa Truck Drivers are not Owner Operators or Contract Drivers as defined by these policies.

• Health Insurance – Health insurance plans from Mexico and Canada do not provide coverage in the U.S.

This lack of adequate coverage creates a prime opportunity for Insurance Agents to step in and deliver a first-of-its-kind solution tailored specifically to the needs of these drivers.

$44 a Month - The Easiest Policy You'll Ever Pitch

Our new Truckers Inbound Travel Insurance solution for B-1 Visa Truck Drivers addresses this gap in a way no other policy does.

This innovative policy is a unique blend, combining traditional Occupational Accident Insurance coverages—such as Medical, Disability, and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)—with essential Travel Insurance benefits.  These benefits include coverage for non-work-related Emergency Medical Conditions, Medical Evacuation, and Repatriation. 

Here's how it can set you apart while delivering valuable benefits to your Mexican and Canadian B-1 Visa clients:

• Unbeatable Affordability – Starting as low as $44/month, this solution fits the tight margins B-1 Visa Truck Drivers face, offering comprehensive coverage without breaking the bank.

• Tailored Coverage – This product is designed specifically to meet the needs of B-1 Visa Truck Drivers, providing peace of mind for drivers and reducing liability risks for Motor Carriers.

• Cross-Border Compatibility – Whether your clients are hauling freight in the U.S. or returning south of the border, their coverage travels with them.

Deck the Halls with Benefits for Insurance Agents

Still wondering what's in it for Insurance Agents?  Here's why this policy is worth adding to your portfolio:

1.  Expand Your Client Base 

With 249,915 commercial truck crossings in one month at Laredo, Texas (the busiest U.S. trade gateway), the market for B-1 Visa Truck Drivers is enormous.  Tap into this current opportunity by offering a solution no other agent can.

2.  Differentiate Yourself 

Today's competitive insurance landscape rewards specialists.  By addressing niche markets like B-1 Visa Truck Drivers, you'll stand out as a proactive partner to your Motor Carrier clients.

3.  Boost Commissions with High-Value Coverage 

Policies like this fill a critical gap, making them highly valuable to your clients.  This can lead to higher policy uptake and stronger client relationships, ultimately benefiting your bottom line.

4.  Show You're Ahead of Industry Trends 

As cross-border trade continues to boom—especially between the U.S. and Mexico—the demand for tailored coverage like this will only grow.  By introducing this product to your clients now, you can position yourself as forward-thinking and innovative.

Why Timing Matters

You might look at the holiday workload and think, "I'll prioritize this product later."  But the reality is that claims don't wait for schedules to clear.  When the unexpected happens—and we all know trucking is a high-risk world—a lack of proper coverage can instantly escalate into a financial and legal nightmare.

While this insurance product is a simple addition, the consequences of not having it aren't so simple.  You don't want your clients to realize the importance of this coverage only after a claim occurs.  The message?  There's no pressure to rush, but there's also no benefit to waiting.

Don’t Get Stuck in the Holiday Traffic

This holiday season, the best gift isn’t under the tree—it’s in our product portfolio.  Mexican and Canadian B-1 Visa Truck Drivers are the backbone of the celebrations we enjoy, delivering the goods that make the season magical.  But without the right insurance, their journeys—and your Motor Carrier clients’ operations—are at risk.

Our new Truckers Inbound Travel Insurance policy offers the perfect solution.  Starting at $44 a month, it provides essential protection for these hardworking drivers and peace of mind for Motor Carriers.  For Insurance Agents, this is a great opportunity to expand your portfolio while delivering the gift of security and reliability.  Don’t wait—wrap up this must-have coverage today!

To learn more about Workforce Insurance Underwriters and our new Truckers Inbound Travel Insurance policy, book a meeting with an industry expert from Workforce by clicking here.

Follow us @workforceinsurance on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.