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State Farm vs Progressive: Bobtail/NTL Insurance

77Good

State Farm

Average Score

VS
80Very Good

Progressive Commercial

Average Score

Winner: Progressive Commercial

Category Breakdown

Premium Cost

Progressive Commercial wins
State Farm78
Progressive Commercial82

Progressive generally offers more competitive rates for bobtail and NTL coverage due to their specialization in commercial auto insurance. State Farm's rates can be higher but may include bundling discounts with personal auto.

Coverage Options

Progressive Commercial wins
State Farm75
Progressive Commercial85

Progressive offers more tailored commercial vehicle coverage options and understands the distinction between bobtail and NTL better than most generalist insurers. State Farm is a generalist that can write the coverage but with less trucking-specific expertise.

Claims Handling

State Farm wins
State Farm85
Progressive Commercial78

State Farm's claims process is highly rated across all lines of insurance, with local agents providing personal assistance. Progressive's claims are handled more centrally, which can feel less personal but is efficient.

Agent Availability

State Farm wins
State Farm92
Progressive Commercial72

State Farm has the largest agent network in the country — there is an office in virtually every town. Progressive works primarily through independent agents and online, with fewer dedicated Progressive offices.

Trucking Expertise

Progressive Commercial wins
State Farm55
Progressive Commercial82

Progressive has deep expertise in commercial trucking insurance and understands the nuances of bobtail vs NTL vs primary liability. State Farm agents may have limited commercial trucking knowledge, which can lead to coverage gaps.

Score Summary

CategoryState FarmProgressive CommercialLeader
Premium Cost7882Progressive Commercial
Coverage Options7585Progressive Commercial
Claims Handling8578State Farm
Agent Availability9272State Farm
Trucking Expertise5582Progressive Commercial
Overall Average7780Progressive Commercial

Our Verdict

Progressive Commercial wins for trucking-specific bobtail and NTL coverage due to their superior understanding of commercial vehicle insurance needs. Their rates are competitive and their coverage options are better tailored to the trucking industry.

State Farm wins for drivers who want local agent relationships and personal claims handling. Their agent network is unmatched, and for simple bobtail policies, their service is excellent.

For most owner-operators, Progressive's trucking expertise is the deciding factor. Insurance coverage gaps can be financially devastating, and working with an insurer that understands your business reduces that risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bobtail insurance covers your tractor without a trailer during business-related driving (heading to pick up a load, returning from a delivery). Non-Trucking Liability covers non-business use (running errands, commuting). They are different coverages for different situations.
Most owner-operators leased to a carrier need NTL (the carrier's policy covers you when dispatched, NTL covers personal use). Independent owner-operators with their own authority need bobtail coverage. Your specific situation determines which you need.
State Farm can write commercial auto policies including bobtail and NTL, but their agents' trucking knowledge varies widely. If you go the State Farm route, find an agent who specifically handles commercial truck insurance rather than a general auto agent.

Need Help Choosing?

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Published March 24, 2026