Fur Wholesaler Distributor Insurance Policy Information

Fur Wholesaler Distributor Insurance. As a furrier distributor or wholesaler, you are tasked with numerous responsibilities. Ordering inventory and safely storing it, making sure that orders are properly filled and shipped out in a timely manner, providing a safe and secure work environment for your employees, managing invoices; these are just some of your responsibilities.
Fur wholesalers receive raw furs, finished coats, hats, or trim from foreign or domestic manufacturers, usually by truck, for distribution to retail furriers, clothing stores, department stores, and other retail establishments.
The distribution center may be open 24 hours a day. Generally, the products are delivered to the customer on the distributor's vehicles.
Though you try your best to make sure that everything runs smoothly and that you are delivering exceptional results in all areas, sometimes, mistakes can happen and accidents can occur. When they do, you'll want to have the right fur wholesaler distributor insurance coverage to protect you.
Fur wholesaler distributor insurance protects your business from lawsuits with rates as low as $47/mo. Get a fast quote and your certificate of insurance now.
Below are some answers to commonly asked fur wholesaler & distributor insurance questions:
- What Is Fur Wholesaler Distributor Insurance?
- How Much Does Fur Wholesaler Distributor Insurance Cost?
- Why Do Fur Wholesalers And Distributors Need Insurance?
- What Type Of Insurance Do Fur Wholesalers And Distributors Need?
- What Does Fur Wholesaler Distributor Insurance Cover & Pay For?
What Is Fur Wholesaler Distributor Insurance?
Fur wholesaler distributor insurance is a type of insurance coverage specifically designed for businesses in the fur industry that deal with the distribution or wholesale of fur products. This insurance provides financial protection against potential losses or damages to the fur products, as well as liability coverage for any claims that may arise from the sale or distribution of these products.
The coverage may include protection for inventory, equipment, and business operations, as well as personal injury or property damage caused by the business. The exact coverage offered by fur wholesaler distributor insurance can vary, so it's important for companies to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy.
How Much Does Fur Wholesaler Distributor Insurance Cost?
The average price of a standard $1,000,000/$2,000,000 General Liability Insurance policy for small fur wholesaler distributor businesses ranges from $47 to $79 per month based on location, size, revenue, claims history and more.
Why Do Fur Wholesalers And Distributors Need Insurance?

As the owner and operator of your furrier distribution or wholesale center, you are responsible for any mishaps that occur. If an employ suffers a work-related injury, if a client slips and falls in your warehouse, if a shipment of furs that you distributed is damaged, if your warehouse is damaged in a fire or a storm, if any of your inventory is stolen; you are responsible for the costs that are associated with these kinds of issues - and more.
The cost of repairing damaged property, replacing lost inventory, medical bills, legal expenses; they can all be excessive. Footing the bill yourself could potentially lead to serious financial hardship; it could even ultimately lead to the loss of your business.
With the right fur wholesaler distributor insurance coverage, however, instead of paying for these expenses yourself, your insurance carrier would cover them for you. Business insurance is the best way to protect yourself from the serious financial damage that the risks you are responsible for could cause.
What Type Of Insurance Do Fur Wholesalers And Distributors Need?
Every grocer distributor is different, and therefore, their insurance needs will differ; however, there are some key types of fur wholesaler distributor insurance coverage that every business owner in this industry should carry, including:
- Commercial General Liability: This policy will cover any third-party injury or property damage claims, including necessary medical bills or repairs, legal expenses, and additional compensation you may be required to pay.
- Commercial Property - If your storage facility, store, or any other commercial space you own is damaged by vandalism, theft, a storm, or fire, commercial property insurance will help to pay for the repairs. It can also help to pay for the repair or replacement of any items that are damaged within the space, such as inventory, equipment, and supplies.
- Business Interruption - If you're business operations have to cease while you are rebuilding after a catastrophic event - a fire, a flood, or any other type of damage to your commercial space - business interruption will help to replace any income you would otherwise lose.
These are just some of the types of fur wholesaler distributor insurance coverage you should carry. You can carry individual policies, or opt for a commercial package policy that combines several different types of coverage under a single policy.
Fur Wholesale Distributor's Risks & Exposures

Premises liability exposure is limited due to the lack of public access to the storage facilities. Customers should be confined to specific areas that are kept clean, dry and free of obstacles. Parking lots and sidewalks need to be in good repair with snow and ice removed, and generally level and free of exposure to slips and falls.
If customers pick up goods, loading docks must be clearly marked and user-friendly. There should be a disaster plan in place for unexpected emergencies. Contracts with transportation and storage providers may expose the operation to additional liability.
Railroad sidetrack agreements pose additional concerns. If there is a railroad sidetrack or dock, an employee must verify that no one is in the path of an incoming or outgoing train. Railroad tracks and conveyors can be attractive nuisances. The premises should be enclosed by fencing with "No Trespassing" signs posted.
Products liability exposures are low if products are all from domestic manufacturers. Direct importing of stock can increase the exposure to that of a manufacturer.
Environmental impairment exposure can be high due to refrigerants and fuel tanks used to service vehicles. All underground tanks and pipes should be routinely tested for leakage. Spill procedures must be in place to prevent the accidental discharge of contaminants.
Record keeping is critical. Contracts should be in place to dispose of all environmentally dangerous chemicals.
Workers compensation exposure is very high. Lifting injuries such as back pain, hernias, sprains, and strains are common. Workers should be trained in proper lifting techniques and use conveyances. Shelving must be stable to prevent stored goods from falling onto workers. Forklift operators must be properly trained.
Continual standing can result in musculoskeletal disorders of the back, legs, or feet. Floor coverings or coatings in the warehouse may pose slip and fall hazards. Housekeeping is critical. Leaking refrigerants are a serious health hazard that can lead to lung damage or even death. Protective breathing equipment must be available to all workers in the event of any ammonia leak.
When work is done on computers, employees are exposed to eyestrain, neck strain, and repetitive motion injuries including carpal tunnel syndrome. Cleaning workers can develop respiratory ailments or contact dermatitis from working with chemicals.
Salespersons and delivery drivers may be injured in automobile accidents, be injured at customers' premises, or be confronted by robbers. Training must be provided to deal with holdup situations.
Property exposure is high due to multiple ignition sources, open construction, and the combustibility and extreme damageability of fur pelts, clothing, and accessories. Ignition sources include electrical wiring, heating, and cooling systems and equipment.
Furs normally are kept in coolers at lower temperatures in order to maintain the best condition. Equipment must be maintained. Dander generated by the furs can increase the fire load. Furs are highly susceptible to fire, smoke, or water damage and have little salvage potential if damaged.
Good housekeeping and fire controls are critical. Smoking should be prohibited. If there is a sprinkler system, heads must be located high enough to avoid accidental contact with forklifts. Recharging of forklifts and maintenance of vehicles should be done in a separate, ventilated area away from combustibles. Vandalism from groups who discourage fur ownership must be considered.
Adequate security systems must be in place including alarms, guards, lighting, and fencing as appropriate to the location. Fur items are excluded from theft coverage under the ISO Property Coverage forms, but coverage is available under the inland marine Furriers Block policy.
Business interruption exposures are moderate. While backup facilities are generally available, replacement stock may be difficult to obtain quickly for distribution to retailers for their peak times such as back-to-school and Christmas.
Equipment breakdown exposures are high as temperatures and humidity must remain constant for refrigeration equipment. All equipment must be inspected and maintained on a regular basis. Back-up generators should be available.
Inland marine exposure is from accounts receivable if the distributor offers credit to customers, computers for tracking inventory, contractors' equipment, furrier's block, goods in transit, and valuable papers and records for manufacturers' and customers' records. Duplicates must be kept of all data to permit easy replication in the event of a loss.
Contractors' equipment includes forklifts and hand trucks used for moving stored items.
Security measures are critical because of the high theft potential for furs. There must be vault security plus temperature control inside the vault. While goods may come to the warehouse via contract or common carriers or trains, goods are generally delivered to retailers on trucks owned by the distributor.
Goods in transit are subject to loss from collision or overturn. Due to the potential for theft, vehicles should be unmarked, have alarms, and be attended at all times. Sales representatives may carry sample stock to retailers.
Crime exposure is from employee dishonesty. Background checks, including criminal history, should be performed on all employees handling money. Warehouse operations involve a number of transactions and accounts that can be manipulated if duties are not separated. There must be a separation of duties between persons handling deposits and disbursements and reconciling bank statements.
Regular audits, both internal and external, are important in order to prevent employee theft. Fur clothing and accessories are attractive to thieves because of their high street value. Good security systems should be in place to discourage employee theft. Physical inventories should be conducted at least annually.
Commercial auto exposure is moderate for the salespersons' fleet and delivery vehicles. There should be a written policy on personal and permissive use of any vehicles provided to employees. All drivers must be well trained and have valid licenses for the type of vehicle being driven.
MVRs must be run on a regular basis. Random drug and alcohol testing should be conducted. Vehicles must be well maintained, including refrigeration systems, with records kept in a central location.
What Does Fur Wholesaler Distributor Insurance Cover & Pay For?

Fur wholesalers and distributors can face several types of lawsuits. Here are some examples, along with how insurance can help cover the associated costs:
Product liability claims: If a customer claims that a fur product caused them harm or injury due to a defect or poor quality, the wholesaler or distributor could be sued. Product liability insurance can help cover the costs associated with these claims, including legal fees, settlements, or judgments.
Breach of contract: If a wholesaler or distributor fails to fulfill their contractual obligations with clients, they could be sued for breach of contract. Commercial general liability insurance typically covers legal fees, settlements, and judgments in these cases.
Property damage: If a wholesaler or distributor's operations result in damage to a client's property, they could be sued for the damages. Commercial general liability insurance can help cover the costs associated with property damage claims.
Employment-related lawsuits: Employees may sue their employer for issues such as wrongful termination, discrimination, or harassment. Employment practices liability insurance can help cover the costs of legal fees, settlements, and judgments in these cases.
Intellectual property infringement: If a wholesaler or distributor is accused of infringing on another company's patents, trademarks, or copyrights, they could be sued. Intellectual property insurance can help cover the costs of legal fees, settlements, and judgments in these cases.
Environmental damage: Wholesalers and distributors could be held responsible for environmental damage caused by their business operations, such as pollution or improper waste disposal. Environmental liability insurance can help cover the costs of legal fees, settlements, and judgments, as well as cleanup and remediation expenses.
In each of these cases, having appropriate insurance coverage can help fur wholesalers and distributors protect their businesses and financial assets from the potential costs of a lawsuit. It is essential for them to work with an insurance professional to ensure they have the right coverage for their specific needs and risks.
Commercial Insurance And Business Industry Classification
- SIC CODE: 5137 Women's, Children's, And Infants' Clothing And Accessories, 5159 Farm-Product Raw Materials, Not Elsewhere Classified
- NAICS CODE: 424590 Other Farm Products Raw Material Merchant Wholesalers, 423930 Recyclable Material Merchant Wholesalers, 424330 Women's, Children's, and Infant's Clothing and Accessories Merchant Wholesalers
- Suggested Workers Compensation Code(s): 8018 Store - Wholesale - NOC, 8032 Store - Dry Goods - Wholesale
Description for 5137: Women's, Children's, And Infants' Clothing And Accessories
Division F: Wholesale Trade | Major Group 51: Wholesale Trade-non-durable Goods | Industry Group 513: Apparel, Piece Goods, And Notions
5137 Women's, Children's, And Infants' Clothing And Accessories: Establishments primarily engaged in the wholesale distribution of women's, children's, and infants' clothing and accessories, including hosiery, lingerie, millinery, and furs.
- Apparel belts: women's and children's-wholesale
- Baby goods-wholesale
- Blouses-wholesale
- Caps and gowns: women's and children's-wholesale
- Caps: women's and children's-wholesale
- Clothing accessories: women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Clothing. women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Coats: women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Coordinate sets: women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Corsets-wholesale
- Diapers-wholesale
- Dresses-wholesale
- Fur clothing-wholesale
- Furnishings, clothing except shoes: women's, children's, and
- Gloves, (all materials): women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Handbags-wholesale
- Handkerchiefs: women's and children's-wholesale
- Hats: women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Hosiery: women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Hospital gowns: women's and children's-wholesale
- Infants' wear-wholesale
- Karate uniforms: women's and children's-wholesale
- Ladies' handkerchiefs-wholesale
- Ladies' purses-wholesale
- Leather and sheep-lined clothing women's and children's-wholesale
- Lingerie-wholesale
- Millinery-wholesale
- Mittens: women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Nightwear: women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Outerwear: women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Purses: women's and children's-wholesale
- Raincoats: women's and children's-wholesale
- Robes and gowns: women's and children's-wholesale
- Scarves: women's, children's and infant's-wholesale
- Skirts-wholesale
- Sportswear: women's and children's-wholesale
- Suits: women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Underwear: women's, children's, and infants'-wholesale
- Uniforms: women's and children's-wholesale
- Unisex clothing women's and children's-wholesale
- Waterproof outer garments: women's and children's-wholesale
Description for 5159: Farm-Product Raw Materials, Not Elsewhere Classified
Division F: Wholesale Trade | Major Group 51: Wholesale Trade-non-durable Goods | Industry Group 515: Farm-product Raw Materials
5159 Farm-Product Raw Materials, Not Elsewhere Classifieds: Establishments primarily engaged in buying and/or marketing farm products, not elsewhere classified. Establishments primarily engaged in the wholesale distribution of milk are classified in Industry 5143, and those distributing live poultry are classified in Industry 5144.
- Animal hair-wholesale
- Bristles-wholesale
- Broomcorn-wholesale
- Buyers of raw farm products, except grain, field beans, and
- Chicks-wholesale
- Cotton merchants, not members of exchanges-wholesale
- Cotton, raw-wholesale
- Country buyers of cotton or cotton linters
- Dealers in raw farm products, except grain, field beans, and
- Dried beet pulp-wholesale
- Feathers-wholesale
- Fibers, vegetable-wholesale
- Furs, raw-wholesale
- Hides (may include curing)-wholesale
- Hops-wholesale
- Horses-wholesale
- Merchants of raw farm products, except grain, field beans, and
- Mohair, raw-wholesale
- Moss-wholesale
- Mules-wholesale
- Nuts, unprocessed or shelled only-wholesale
- Oil kernels-wholesale
- Oil nuts-wholesale
- Oilseeds-wholesale
- Peanuts, bulk: unprocessed or shelled only-wholesale
- Pecan-wholesale
- Pelts-wholesale
- Semen, bovine-wholesale
- Silk, raw-wholesale
- Skins, raw-wholesale
- Sugar, raw-wholesale
- Tobacco auctioning and warehousing-wholesale
- Tobacco, leaf (including exporters)-wholesale
- Wool tops and boils-wholesale
- Wool, raw-wholesale
Fur Wholesaler Distributor Insurance - The Bottom Line
Fur wholesaler distributor insurance polices vary in limits, premiums and coverage. If you are searching for business insurance, or want to see if your policies cover your operations, speak to an experienced broker to take a look at your business.
In many cases they can save you premium dollars and offer you better policy options than you currently have.
Additional Resources For Wholesale And Distribution Insurance
Read informative articles on wholesale distribution insurance. Distributors and wholesalers face specific risks including fire, flood and weather damage that can destroy products in the distribution center - and every part of the supply chain including late supplier shipments to unpaid invoices - can effect the entire operation.
- Air Conditioning And Heating
- Audio And Video Equipment
- Beer & Ale
- Beverage
- Cabinets
- Cameras & Musical Instruments
- Candy
- CDs, DVDs And Videos
- Clothing
- Coffee
- Confectioners
- Dairy Products
- Drugs
- Dry Goods
- Electrical Appliances
- Electrical Equipment
- Electrical Supplies
- Electronic Equipment
- Envelopes
- Extracts
- Food
- Fruit
- Fur
- Furniture
- Gifts
- Glassware
- Greeting Cards
- Grocers
- Hardware
- Importer & Exporter
- Jewelry
- Lamps
- Liquor Wholesaler
- Lumber
- Manufacturers Representative
- Meat
- Motion Picture
- Novelties
- Paint
- Petroleum
- Plate Glass
- Plumbing Supplies
- Restaurant Equipment
- Roofing Materials
- Rugs
- Seed Merchants
- Shoes
- Stationers
- Theatrical Supplies
- Tires
- Tools
- Toys
- Wallpaper
- Wholesale Florist
- Wholesaler Distributor
- Specialty Dealers And Distributors

The wholesale distribution industry plays a crucial role in the supply chain process, connecting manufacturers and retailers to customers. It involves the storage, transportation, and distribution of a wide range of products, including raw materials, finished goods, and equipment.
Wholesale and distribution operations have many of the same physical damage and property coverage concerns as warehouse operations. In both, the value of both real property and stocks of merchandise is very high. Loss control and other techniques appropriate to the types of merchandise involved are needed. For these reasons, adequate and appropriate property insurance coverages are important.
As with any business, the wholesale distribution industry is exposed to a variety of risks that can impact its operations and profitability. These risks can range from property damage and theft to liability claims and employee injuries.
Business insurance helps to protect a wholesale distribution company from these potential losses by providing financial protection in the event of unexpected events. It helps to cover the costs of repairs, replacements, and legal fees, as well as lost income and wages.
For example, if a warehouse fire destroys a large portion of a wholesale distributor's inventory, business insurance can help to cover the cost of replacing the lost goods and repairing the damaged property. Similarly, if a customer is injured on the company's premises, liability insurance can help to cover the cost of legal fees and settlement payments.
In addition to protecting the company's assets and financial stability, commercial insurance also helps to protect the company's reputation. If a company is sued or faces a major loss, it can damage its reputation and credibility in the industry. Business insurance helps to mitigate these risks and maintain a positive reputation.
Overall, the wholesale distribution industry needs business commercial insurance to protect against unexpected risks and losses, maintain financial stability, and protect the company's reputation. Without it, a company may face significant financial losses and potential legal liabilities that could impact its operations and profitability.
Minimum recommended small business insurance coverage: Business Personal Property, Business Income and Extra Expense, Accounts Receivable, Computers, Contractors' Equipment, Goods in Transit, Valuable Papers and Records, Employee Dishonesty, General Liability, Employee Benefits, Umbrella, Business Automobile Liability and Physical Damage, Hired and Non-owned Auto & Workers Compensation
Other commercial insurance policies to consider: Building, Earthquake, Equipment Breakdown, Flood, Leasehold Interest, Real Property Legal Liability, Signs, Computer Fraud, Forgery, Money and Securities, Cyberliability, Employment-Related Practices and Stop Gap Liability.