What is the UIIE-1 endorsement?
What is the UIIE-1 Endorsement? (UIIA Trucking Explained)
The UIIE-1 endorsement (also called the Truckers Uniform Intermodal Interchange Endorsement) is a required insurance endorsement used in UIIA Insurance for Intermodal Trucking. It is one of the most important compliance requirements for motor carriers that haul containers in and out of ports, rail yards, and intermodal facilities.
Without the UIIE-1 endorsement, most trucking companies cannot legally access containers under the Uniform Intermodal Interchange and Facilities Access Agreement (UIIA).
What the UIIE-1 Endorsement Actually Does
The UIIE-1 endorsement is attached to a trucking company’s commercial auto liability policy. It modifies the policy so it meets UIIA requirements and confirms the carrier accepts responsibility while using intermodal equipment.
In simple terms, it:
- Extends liability coverage to intermodal operations
- Confirms responsibility for damage or loss while using containers or chassis
- Satisfies UIIA participation requirements
- Allows carriers to be approved for port and rail access
It is not optional for intermodal trucking—it is a mandatory compliance endorsement.
Why the UIIE-1 Endorsement Is Required
Intermodal trucking involves multiple parties handling the same container:
- Steamship lines
- Rail operators
- Port terminals
- Trucking companies
Because equipment is constantly transferred, liability risk is higher. The UIIE-1 endorsement ensures the trucking company’s insurance policy covers responsibility during the interchange period.
It protects equipment providers by clearly defining who is financially responsible when damage occurs while the container or chassis is in the carrier’s possession.
What the UIIE-1 Endorsement Covers
The UIIE-1 endorsement typically applies to:
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Liability assumed under the UIIA agreement
It confirms that the motor carrier agrees to:
- Maintain required insurance limits
- Accept liability during equipment interchange
- Add required equipment providers as additional insureds
- Follow UIIA contractual obligations
What the UIIE-1 Endorsement Does NOT Cover
It is important to understand what this endorsement does not include:
- ❌ Physical damage to containers or chassis (covered under trailer interchange)
- ❌ Cargo damage inside containers
- ❌ Normal freight liability coverage beyond policy limits
- ❌ Terminal or loading/unloading damage in all situations
This is why UIIIA Insurance for Intermodal Trucking requires multiple coverages—not just the endorsement.
UIIE-1 vs CA 23-17 vs TE 23-17B
Insurance carriers may use different naming conventions, but they all serve the same purpose.
Acceptable versions include:
- UIIE-1
- CA 23-17
- TE 23-17B
As long as the endorsement is attached to the auto liability policy and meets UIIA requirements, it is generally acceptable.
Why Insurance Companies Care About the UIIE-1 Endorsement
Not all insurance carriers support intermodal trucking. The UIIE-1 endorsement increases exposure because it extends liability responsibilities in port and rail environments.
Some carriers may:
- Refuse to file UIIA paperwork
- Exclude hired and non-owned coverage
- Decline intermodal risks entirely
- Limit port or rail yard operations
This is one reason many trucking companies struggle to get approved for drayage work.
Common Problems Trucking Companies Face
Many motor carriers run into issues when trying to get UIIE-1 approval:
- Policy does not include required endorsement
- Insurance carrier is not UIIA-approved
- Missing additional insured filings
- Incorrect certificate wording
- Lapses in coverage
- Trailer interchange not included
Even if a company has “commercial truck insurance,” it may still be rejected for intermodal operations without the correct endorsement.
Why the UIIE-1 Endorsement Matters for Ports
In major freight hubs like:
- Port of Charleston (South Carolina)
- Port of Savannah (Georgia)
- Port of Jacksonville (Florida)
- Port of Houston (Texas)
- Port of Virginia (Norfolk area)
UIIE-1 compliance is required before a trucking company can pull containers.
Without it, access to chassis pools and container releases can be denied immediately.
How to Get the UIIE-1 Endorsement
To obtain the endorsement, trucking companies typically must:
- Work with a commercial truck insurance agent familiar with UIIA
- Select an insurance carrier that supports intermodal trucking
- Add required coverage (auto liability + trailer interchange)
- Request UIIE-1 (or equivalent) endorsement
- Submit filings into the UIIA system
Approval depends heavily on both underwriting and compliance accuracy.
Final Thoughts
The UIIE-1 endorsement is a core requirement for any carrier involved in intermodal trucking. It is not just paperwork—it is the legal insurance modification that allows trucking companies to operate inside ports, rail yards, and container facilities.
Without it, a carrier cannot participate in UIIA programs or legally access most intermodal freight opportunities.
For trucking companies working in port-heavy states like South Carolina, Georgia, Texas, and Florida, understanding the UIIE-1 endorsement is essential for staying compliant and keeping freight moving.
UIIA Insurance Companies
If you have questions about UIIA Insurance. Call or text JDW for a friendly one on one chat. We respond quickly and answer your questions – 843-849-4929
