Western Pallet Magazine March 2026 | Page 30

30 WESTERN PALLET

have$1 million in general liability and $1 million in commercial auto coverage. A $5 million umbrella policy sits above those limits and provides extra protection if a major claim occurs. Umbrella coverage is often one of the most cost-effective ways to add significant protection.

“Umbrella insurance is often the simplest way to protect a company from catastrophic lawsuits.”

So how much insurance is enough? Smart risk management usually starts with four key questions:

The most successful pallet companies review their coverage regularly, update limits as their operations grow, and work with advisors who understand the unique risks of their industry. In a business where risk is part of the daily operation, the real question is not whether a loss will happen, but whether the company is prepared when it does.

Brint Walker is a commercial insurance client advisor specializing in the pallet and wood container industry. He works with manufacturers and recyclers to align insurance, risk control, and operational strategy, helping businesses reduce claims, stabilize insurance costs, and prepare for what comes next.

  • Are buildings, equipment, and inven- tory insured for their full replacement cost today?

  • Do customer contracts require higher insurance limits?

  • What would the financial impact be of a worst-case loss such as a major fire, severe injury, or multi-vehicle truck accident?

  • Could the business survive a tem- porary shutdown without business interruption coverage?

  • Insurance should never be treated as just another expense to minimize. For pallet companies, it is a critical tool for protecting the business, employees, and long-term financial stability. Underpricing risk coverage may reduce premiums in the short term, but one uncovered loss can erase years of hard work.

    “Insurance isn’t just about cost. It’s about making sure your company survives the unexpected.