What Is Inland Marine Insurance?
When you hear “marine insurance,” you might think of boats and oceans. But Inland Marine Insurance has little to do with water—and everything to do with protecting your valuable property in transit. If your Rhode Island business transports tools, equipment, or products across the state (or the country), inland marine coverage might be essential for you.
At The Slocum Agency, Inc., we help local business owners in Warwick, Providence, and all of Central Rhode Island understand this often-overlooked coverage and determine if it's right for their operation.
What Is Inland Marine Insurance?
Inland marine insurance is designed to protect moveable or specialized property that isn’t covered under a standard commercial property policy. Originally developed for shipping goods across land, inland marine policies now cover a wide range of items and scenarios, especially where items are transported or used away from a fixed location.
What Does Inland Marine Insurance Cover?
Inland marine insurance can cover:
Contractor tools and equipment (like power tools, welders, generators)
Construction materials being transported to a job site
High-value electronics or computers used off-site
Fine art or exhibits on display at a temporary location
Medical or scientific equipment used at multiple facilities
Installation floater coverage for property while it's being installed
Bailee’s customer coverage if you’re holding property that belongs to someone else
This policy is ideal for contractors, landscapers, movers, IT professionals, and any business with assets on the go.
Who Needs Inland Marine Insurance?
You may need inland marine coverage if:
Your business frequently transports goods or equipment across Rhode Island or beyond
You operate off-site at multiple job sites
You use specialized equipment or tools away from your main location
You take client property into your possession (as a repair shop, dry cleaner, etc.)
You lease equipment or have items in transit with third-party carriers
Common Industries That Benefit
Inland marine insurance is especially beneficial for:
General contractors and subcontractors
HVAC and plumbing businesses
Electricians
Event production companies
IT professionals and consultants
Art dealers and museums
Medical professionals transporting devices
Landscaping companies
If you're unsure whether this applies to you, our insurance counselors at Slocum Insurance can help assess your risk and determine the right protection.
Inland Marine Insurance vs. Commercial Property Insurance
Commercial PropertyInland MarineCovers property at a fixed locationCovers property in transit or off-siteIdeal for buildings, inventory, office equipmentIdeal for tools, equipment, and materials used off-siteDoes not cover most mobile propertyCovers moveable or high-value specialized equipment
A common misconception is that commercial property insurance will cover everything. However, property in transit or away from your business location is often excluded—which is where inland marine comes in.
Why It Matters in Rhode Island
Whether you're a contractor in Warwick, a tech consultant in Providence, or a business owner servicing all of Central Rhode Island, transporting tools or operating off-site puts your property at risk. Inland marine insurance helps fill the gap—providing peace of mind and financial protection if something is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Custom Coverage with Slocum Insurance
At The Slocum Agency, Inc., we understand that every business is different. That’s why we offer:
Customized inland marine policies based on your operation
Access to top-rated insurance carriers
Local support from our team of experienced insurance counselors
We’ll help you understand your risks and tailor coverage to ensure your valuable property is protected wherever it goes.
Ready to Learn More?
If your business relies on tools, equipment, or property that moves from place to place, inland marine insurance may be the missing piece in your protection plan.
📞 Call us today at (401) 738-3366
📍 Or visit us in Warwick to speak with a licensed agent
💻 Or request a quote online
Let The Slocum Agency, Inc. be your trusted partner for inland marine and all your business insurance needs in Rhode Island.
