Commercial auto insurance is a critical component for businesses that rely on vehicles for operations, whether for deliveries, client visits, or transporting equipment. Unlike personal auto insurance, commercial policies are designed to address the unique risks associated with business-related vehicle use, offering higher liability limits and specialized coverages. With numerous providers in the market, selecting the right insurer can be daunting. This article compares four prominent commercial auto insurance providers in the U.S.—Infinity Auto, BiBerk, NEXT, and Progressive—evaluating their coverage options, pricing, customer service, and unique features to help business owners make an informed decision.

Understanding Commercial Auto Insurance

What Is Commercial Auto Insurance?

Commercial auto insurance provides coverage for vehicles used for business purposes, such as company cars, delivery vans, or heavy trucks. It protects businesses from financial losses due to accidents, property damage, bodily injury, or legal claims arising from vehicle operations. Unlike personal auto policies, commercial insurance typically includes higher liability limits and covers employees, leased vehicles, or equipment transported in the vehicle.

Key coverages include:

• Liability Coverage: Covers bodily injury and property damage caused to others in an accident.
• Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your vehicle from collisions, regardless of fault.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Covers non-collision incidents like theft, vandalism, or weather damage.
• Medical Payments: Covers medical expenses for injuries sustained in an accident.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects against damages caused by drivers with insufficient or no insurance.

Why Compare Providers?

Each insurer offers unique advantages, pricing models, and customer service experiences. Factors like fleet size, vehicle types, business industry, and budget can influence which provider is the best fit. Comparing Infinity Auto, BiBerk, NEXT, and Progressive will highlight their strengths and limitations, enabling businesses to choose a policy that aligns with their needs.

Infinity Auto Commercial Auto Insurance

Overview

Infinity Auto, a part of Kemper Corporation, specializes in providing commercial auto insurance for small businesses and independent professionals, particularly in select states like California. Known for its accessibility and bilingual support (English and Spanish), Infinity caters to businesses that may not qualify for standard coverage, such as high-risk drivers or new business owners.

Coverage Options

Infinity offers standard commercial auto insurance coverages, including:

• Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability: Meets state requirements and covers damages to others caused by your vehicle.
• Collision and Comprehensive: Protects your vehicle from accidents, theft, or other incidents.
• Medical Payments: Covers medical expenses for drivers or passengers, regardless of fault.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: Provides protection when the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance.

Infinity’s policies are flexible, allowing customization to suit specific business needs, such as coverage for vehicles used for deliveries or client visits. However, it does not offer specialized add-ons like hired and non-owned auto (HNOA) coverage, which may limit its appeal for businesses with complex needs.

Pricing

Infinity’s pricing is tailored to small businesses and high-risk drivers, but it tends to be higher than some competitors, especially in states like California. According to industry insights, premiums can vary significantly based on location, vehicle type, and driver history. Infinity does not publish average rates online, requiring businesses to request a quote by calling 1-855-478-3705 or through their website. Its focus on accessibility makes it a viable option for businesses prioritizing straightforward coverage over cost savings.

Customer Service and Accessibility

Infinity stands out for its bilingual support, which is particularly beneficial for Spanish-speaking business owners. The company offers a user-friendly quote process and dedicated customer service, with a team of sales and claims representatives available to assist. However, its availability is limited to certain states, which may restrict its reach compared to nationwide providers like Progressive.

Unique Features

• Bilingual Support: Offers services in English and Spanish, enhancing accessibility for diverse business owners.
• Flexible Eligibility: Suitable for high-risk drivers or businesses that struggle to secure coverage elsewhere.
• Customizable Policies: Allows tailoring coverage to meet state requirements and business needs.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Accessible for high-risk drivers and new businesses.
• Bilingual customer service enhances inclusivity.
• Straightforward quote and purchase process.

Cons:

• Limited state availability.
• Higher premiums in some regions, like California.
• Lacks advanced features like telematics or HNOA coverage.

BiBerk Commercial Auto Insurance

Overview

BiBerk, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, is a digital-first insurance provider focusing on small businesses. Launched in 2015, BiBerk leverages an online model to reduce costs, claiming savings of up to 20% compared to traditional insurers. Its policies are backed by Berkshire Hathaway’s A++ financial strength rating, ensuring reliability.

Coverage Options

BiBerk provides comprehensive commercial auto insurance, including:

• Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability: Covers damages caused to others.
• Collision and Comprehensive: Protects your vehicle from accidents and non-collision incidents.
• Medical Payments: Covers medical expenses for drivers and passengers.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: Offers protection against inadequately insured drivers.

Notably, BiBerk does not offer HNOA coverage under its commercial auto policy, requiring businesses to purchase it through a general liability or business owners policy (BOP). Add-ons like roadside assistance and rental reimbursement are available, making it versatile for various vehicle types, from cars to dump trucks.

Pricing

BiBerk’s direct-to-consumer model eliminates intermediaries, resulting in competitive pricing. Starting rates for commercial auto coverage are approximately $30 per month, though costs vary based on business type, location, and risk profile. For example, a quote for a commercial cleaning business in Jacksonville, Florida, was higher than Progressive’s but still competitive due to BiBerk’s cost-saving approach. Businesses can obtain instant online quotes, enhancing transparency.

Customer Service and Accessibility

BiBerk’s online platform allows businesses to quote, purchase, and manage policies without agent interaction, ideal for those seeking efficiency. The platform integrates with tools like Salesforce for streamlined customer management. However, the lack of local agents may reduce personalized support, and adding or removing vehicles can be less convenient compared to agent-based providers. BiBerk’s customer satisfaction is high, with a 4.5/5 TrustPilot rating and an A+ BBB rating, reflecting strong service quality.

Unique Features

• Online-First Model: Streamlined quote and policy management process.
• Cost Savings: Up to 20% savings by cutting out brokers.
• Financial Backing: Supported by Berkshire Hathaway’s A++ financial strength.
• Free Certificates of Insurance: Instant access to proof of coverage.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Competitive pricing with up to 20% savings.
• Strong financial backing from Berkshire Hathaway.
• User-friendly online platform for quotes and management.
• High customer satisfaction ratings.

Cons:

• No HNOA coverage under commercial auto policies.
• Limited personal support due to digital-first approach.
• May not suit businesses with complex needs.

NEXT Commercial Auto Insurance

Overview

NEXT Insurance partners with Progressive to offer commercial auto insurance, focusing on small businesses and independent professionals. Its fully digital platform emphasizes affordability and ease of use, making it a popular choice for contractors, delivery services, and small fleets. NEXT also offers bundled policies, providing discounts for combining commercial auto with other coverages like general liability.

Coverage Options

Through its partnership with Progressive, NEXT provides standard commercial auto coverages, including:

• Liability Coverage: Covers bodily injury and property damage to others.
• Collision and Comprehensive: Protects your vehicle from accidents, theft, or vandalism.
• Medical Payments: Covers medical expenses for injuries sustained in accidents.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: Protects against drivers with inadequate insurance.
• Gap Coverage: Covers financed or leased vehicles.
• Towing and Labor: Covers roadside assistance costs.

NEXT’s policies are tailored to small businesses, with options for single vehicles or small fleets. Businesses needing HNOA coverage can add it through other NEXT policies, such as general liability.

Pricing

NEXT’s pricing is competitive, with an average cost of $147 per month for small business customers, according to Insureon. Liability-only policies start at $85 per month, while comprehensive policies can reach $300 per month, depending on factors like vehicle type and location. A 10% discount is available for bundling multiple policies, enhancing affordability. Quotes are obtained through Progressive’s platform, ensuring a quick and seamless process.

Customer Service and Accessibility

NEXT’s 100% online platform allows businesses to get quotes, purchase policies, and manage claims instantly. The mobile app simplifies tasks like generating certificates of insurance (COIs) or filing claims. Licensed insurance advisors are available for support, balancing digital efficiency with human assistance. Customer reviews praise NEXT’s ease of use and responsive service, though its reliance on Progressive for auto insurance means the experience may vary based on Progressive’s systems.

Unique Features

• Partnership with Progressive: Leverages Progressive’s expertise for robust coverage.
• Bundling Discounts: 10% savings when combining policies.
• Instant COIs: Easy access to certificates of insurance via the mobile app.
• Digital-First Experience: Streamlined quote and claims process.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable pricing with bundling discounts.
• Fast and easy online quote process.
• Comprehensive coverage through Progressive partnership.
• Mobile app enhances policy management.

Cons:

• Relies on Progressive for auto insurance, limiting direct control.
• May not offer specialized add-ons for niche industries.
• Less suitable for large fleets.

Progressive Commercial Auto Insurance

Overview

Progressive is the largest commercial auto insurer in the U.S., writing more policies than any competitor, according to the Insurance Information Institute. With over 85 years of experience, Progressive offers flexible coverage for a wide range of vehicles, from cars and vans to tow trucks and tractor-trailers. Its reputation for competitive pricing and extensive discounts makes it a top choice for businesses of all sizes.

Coverage Options

Progressive provides a comprehensive suite of coverages, including:

• Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability: Covers damages to others, with limits up to $1 million or more.
• Collision and Comprehensive: Protects your vehicle from accidents and non-collision incidents.
• Medical Payments/Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses for drivers and passengers.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: Protects against inadequately insured drivers.
• Roadside Assistance and Rental Reimbursement: Covers towing and rental car costs.
• Specialized Coverage: Includes options for contractors (e.g., tools and equipment coverage) and truck-specific policies.

Progressive’s Snapshot ProView program uses telematics to track driving habits, offering discounts for safe drivers. Businesses with fleets can access free fleet management tools, enhancing operational efficiency.

Pricing

Progressive’s pricing varies widely, with 2023 averages ranging from $257 per month for contractor autos to $1,041 per month for for-hire transport trucks. Discounts include:

• Business Experience Discount: For businesses operating over three years.
• Prior Insurance Savings: For maintaining coverage for 12 months.
• Package Discount: For bundling with other Progressive policies.
• Paid-in-Full Discount: Up to 15% off for upfront payments.
• Snapshot ProView Discount: 5% for enrolling, with potential savings of 8–20% for safe driving.

Quotes are available online, over the phone, or through agents, though pricing may vary by method. Progressive’s A+ AM Best rating ensures financial stability, but its C rating from The Crash Network suggests mixed feedback from mechanics and body shops.

Customer Service and Accessibility

Progressive offers multiple channels for customer service, including online, phone, and agent support. Its 24/7 claims support and user-friendly online platform make it accessible for busy business owners. The Snapshot ProView program provides valuable data on driving habits, though poor driving may increase premiums. Progressive’s nationwide availability (except Washington, D.C.) ensures broad reach.

Unique Features

• Market Leader: Largest commercial auto insurer with extensive experience.
• Telematics Program: Snapshot ProView offers discounts and fleet management tools.
• Wide Vehicle Coverage: Insures everything from cars to heavy trucks.
• Flexible Discounts: Multiple options to reduce premiums.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Extensive coverage options for diverse vehicles and industries.
• Competitive pricing with numerous discounts.
• Nationwide availability and 24/7 claims support.
• Advanced telematics for fleet management and savings.

Cons:

• Not available in Washington, D.C.
• Telematics may increase premiums for poor driving.
• Mixed feedback from mechanics and body shops.

Comparative Analysis

Coverage Comparison

Provider	Liability	Collision/Comprehensive	Medical Payments	Uninsured/Underinsured	HNOA	Specialized Add-Ons
Infinity Auto	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Limited
BiBerk	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No*	Roadside, Rental
NEXT	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes*	Gap, Towing
Progressive	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Extensive

*HNOA available through general liability or BOP policies, not commercial auto.

Progressive offers the most comprehensive coverage, including specialized options for contractors and truckers. NEXT, through its Progressive partnership, matches much of Progressive’s offerings but lacks some niche add-ons. BiBerk provides solid standard coverage but falls short on HNOA. Infinity’s coverage is basic, suitable for small businesses but less versatile.

Pricing Comparison

Provider	Starting Rate	Average Monthly Cost	Discounts Available
Infinity Auto	Not disclosed	Higher in CA	Limited
BiBerk	~$30/month	~$147–$300	Up to 20% direct
NEXT	~$85/month (liability)	~$147–$300	10% bundling
Progressive	~$257/month	$257–$1,041	Multiple (up to 15%)

BiBerk and NEXT are the most affordable for small businesses, with BiBerk’s direct model offering significant savings. Progressive’s pricing varies widely but is competitive with discounts. Infinity’s lack of transparent pricing and higher premiums in some regions make it less cost-effective.

Customer Service and Accessibility

Provider	Online Quote	Agent Support	Customer Ratings	Availability
Infinity Auto	Yes	Yes	Not widely rated	Select states
BiBerk	Yes	Limited	4.5/5 TrustPilot	All states (excl. D.C.)
NEXT	Yes	Yes	High customer praise	All states (excl. D.C.)
Progressive	Yes	Yes	A+ AM Best, C Crash Network	All states (excl. D.C.)

BiBerk and NEXT excel in digital accessibility, while Progressive offers a balance of online and agent support. Infinity’s bilingual service is a unique advantage, but its limited state availability is a drawback.

Which Provider Is Right for Your Business?

Best for Small Businesses and High-Risk Drivers: Infinity Auto

Infinity is ideal for small businesses, independent drivers, or high-risk operators in select states like California. Its bilingual support and flexible eligibility make it accessible, but limited coverage options and higher premiums may deter businesses with complex needs.

Best for Affordability and Digital Experience: BiBerk

BiBerk’s online model and Berkshire Hathaway backing make it a top choice for small businesses seeking cost-effective, straightforward coverage. Its lack of HNOA and limited agent support may not suit larger or more complex operations.

Best for Bundling and Small Fleets: NEXT

NEXT’s partnership with Progressive and bundling discounts make it a great fit for small businesses needing multiple policies. Its digital platform and competitive pricing are ideal for contractors and delivery services, though it may lack specialized options for niche industries.

Best for Comprehensive Coverage and Fleets: Progressive

Progressive is the go-to for businesses with diverse vehicle types or large fleets, offering extensive coverage, telematics, and discounts. Its nationwide reach and flexibility make it suitable for most industries, though pricing can be higher for specialized vehicles like for-hire trucks.

Tips for Choosing Commercial Auto Insurance

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine the types of vehicles, usage, and risks your business faces. For example, contractors may need tools and equipment coverage, while delivery services may prioritize HNOA.
2. Compare Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple providers to find the best rates. Online platforms like BiBerk and NEXT simplify this process.
3. Consider Discounts: Look for bundling, paid-in-full, or telematics discounts to reduce costs.
4. Check Financial Stability: Choose insurers with strong AM Best ratings (e.g., A+ or A++) to ensure claim reliability.
5. Evaluate Customer Service: Prioritize providers with accessible support, whether digital or agent-based, based on your preferences.
6. Review Coverage Limits: Ensure liability limits meet state requirements and protect against potential losses.

Conclusion

Choosing the right commercial auto insurance provider depends on your business’s specific needs, budget, and operational scope. Infinity Auto is a solid choice for small businesses and high-risk drivers in select states, offering accessibility and bilingual support. BiBerk stands out for affordability and a seamless digital experience, backed by Berkshire Hathaway’s financial strength. NEXT provides competitive pricing and bundling options, ideal for small businesses needing multiple policies. Progressive, as the market leader, offers unmatched coverage variety and fleet management tools, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes.

By comparing coverage options, pricing, and customer service, you can select the provider that best aligns with your business goals. For personalized quotes, visit the providers’ websites or contact their support teams to ensure your vehicles and business are adequately protected.

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