Farm Equipment & Machinery Insurance
Your farm's equipment and machinery need to be protected against losses caused by vandalism, fire, and more.
Your farm undoubtedly has equipment and machinery that you use to complete daily operations. However, natural disasters, vandalism, fire, and other incidents could lead to damage or destruction that causes hangups and other possible losses for your farm. That's why making sure you have the proper insurance to help protect your tractors, tools, machinery, etc., is one of the most essential keys to maintaining smooth operations.
An independent insurance agent can help you find the perfect blend of farm equipment and machinery coverage at a cost that fits your budget. Your agent can help you insure all aspects of your agribusiness. But first, here's a breakdown of farm and machinery insurance.
How to Insure Your Farm's Equipment and Machinery
Insuring your farm with a standard farm insurance policy is one thing, but your equipment and heavy machinery are a whole different story. Your farm equipment and machinery insurance policies are typically separate from overall farm coverage.
However, sometimes, these coverages can be included in the same package, depending on your carrier. You may choose to list each piece of your equipment separately on one policy with respective values, or cover all your machinery and equipment together under one policy that includes a designated limit for everything.
The best place to start is having your independent insurance agent look at pricing and coverages for your equipment's specifications. So whether you have a million-dollar tractor or a groundskeeping ditch witch, you need the right amount of coverage.
You'll need the following information to get started:
- The specifics of your equipment and machinery: This includes the serial numbers for each piece of equipment, what they're registered as, and what you'll be doing with them.
- The value of your equipment and machinery: This isn't the sentimental value but what the market can bear. This means what the market will pay for your piece of equipment or machine and how much it costs to replace it if the worst should happen.
- The preemptive protection you have in place: This can include whether you have proper protocols for any operators of heavy machinery or equipment used and if you have regular safety meetings concerning the proper care of these tools and machinery.
Your independent insurance agent can help you gather the necessary information to help you find the right coverage for your farm equipment and machinery.
What Does Farm Equipment and Machinery Insurance Cover?
When it comes to insuring your farm equipment and machinery, knowing exactly what goes into your coverage is essential. Additional farm equipment and machinery insurance covers the following:
- Mechanical breakdown and failure
- Lost income due to equipment failure
Your specific farm and machinery insurance policy can be reviewed in-depth with the help of your independent insurance agent.
What Farm and Machinery Insurance Doesn't Cover
Like any other type of policy, farm and machinery insurance comes with its own set of typical exclusions. Your policy likely will not cover any of the following:
- Natural wear and tear of your farm equipment and machinery
- Equipment malfunctions due to wear and tear or general use
- Intentional acts that result in damage or destruction
If you're concerned about your policy's exclusions, discuss additional coverage options with your independent insurance agent.
Farm Equipment and Machinery Liability Insurance
If you’re found to be legally responsible for causing bodily injury or property damage to other people or their property as a result of your farm equipment or machinery, you’ll have coverage under the liability portion of your policy. This coverage can help pay for the costs of an attorney and other court and lawsuit expenses if an issue arises.
The Benefits of Working with an Independent Insurance Agent
Independent insurance agents have access to multiple insurance companies, ultimately finding you the best coverage, accessibility, and competitive pricing while working for you. Also, as your farm grows and your needs change, they'll be there to help you adjust your coverage to make sure you're properly protected without overpaying.
https://www.nationwide.com/business/agribusiness/farm-insurance/optional-coverages/type/tractor
https://www.amfam.com/insurance/farm-ranch/coverages/tractor-and-farm-equipment-insurance
