Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1390499
PalletCentral • July-August 2021 37 carriers. Unless a new carrier comes in to start writing in our industry or we stop having the frequency and severity of losses, I don't see the pricing getting back down to where it was for many years. So what can I do? Make your operation stand out as one of the top 10% of pallet/crating manufacturers. There is always room in the rates for the best of the best. So how do I do that? Regarding the auto and umbrella. I would encourage you to make your operation stand out by developing a fleet safety program and implementing the elements of that program. PLM offers some very nice sample programs and even offers an MVR monitoring program. Dash cameras and GPS monitoring programs are effective tools and carriers love to see these. There are many more programs so reach out to your carriers to see what else they recommend or call me. Make sure you review your DOT safety report as that is the first thing underwriters review. Property. Again, we are looking to make our properties stand out in a good way. 1. Ensure your agent has good pictures of the property to submit with their application. 2. The building should be clear from vegetation, pallets and debris on all sides. Slat stock is usually acceptable to be near the buildings, but pallets should be at least 25' away and preferably 50' feet. 3. Make sure your agent has a copy of your most recent thermographic scan and a signed copy that the items have been repaired. 4. Your hot work permit program should be evident of use by providing old permits that had been filled out. 5. If not sprinkled, consider heat, smoke, burglary alarms and cameras are very popular now. 6. Invite your carrier to walk your property and give you ideas on how you can improve your property. This can translate into not only lower premiums, but also a more committed carrier. 7. Remove any open flame sources; wood burners, torpedo heaters, etc. 8. Consider adding a sprinkler system and if you have one, make sure it's maintained. 9. Work with the fire department on a preplan and provide that to your agent. 10. Housekeeping is huge, make sure to hit the corners and rafters. Most underwriters make a decision on your account even before they do the tour, so the outside should be clean and neat. Your housekeeping plan should be documented and assigned areas for supervisors. 11. Pallet stacks inside should not exceed 18' and 24" below your sprinkler heads. 12. Develop an electrical preventative maintenance program that is written. 13. Prepare for loss control inspections and take a keen interest in what they are recommending. iStockphoto.com/Nuthawut Somsuk