From Seed to Sale: Farm Insurance Planning for Every Stage of Production

Farm operations go through distinct phases from planting to selling, and insurance needs evolve with each. Here’s how Michigan farmers can safeguard their livelihood at every stage:

1. Land Preparation and Seeding

Before the first seed hits the soil, heavy machinery is in use. Coverage needed:

• Equipment breakdown policies for tractors & planters.
  
  

• General liability to protect against worker injury or property damage during field prep.

2. Growing Season

Once crops are in the ground, risks include weather damage, trespass, or equipment breakdown.

• Crop insurance (yield-based or index-based) compensates for losses due to drought, frost, hail, etc.
  
  

• Ensure you have pollution liability if applying chemicals via drones or sprayers.

3. Harvest

Equipment is under peak use, and timing is crucial.

• Equipment and combine coverage protects against breakdowns.
  
  

• Inland marine insurance can cover stored grain bins and transport.
  
  

• Business interruption insurance is vital if weather delays harvest, impacting cash flow.

4. Post-Harvest Storage and Transport

Once storage begins, focus shifts to protecting assets and revenue.

• Crop warehousing coverage safeguards grain bins against theft, fire, or natural disasters.
  
  

• If flipping grains to market, products/completed operations liability protects against claims from contamination or spoilage.

5. Sale and Distribution

Your crop reaches buyers—maybe even in different countries.

• Commercial auto insurance covers trucks moving grain.
  
  

• Contingent cargo or transit insurance offers extra protection during shipment.
  
  

• Trade credit insurance ensures you get paid, even if a buyer defaults.

Why It Matters

Each stage brings unique exposures. By reviewing coverage proactively—with Tom Gotham’s help—you can patch gaps and protect income. Michigan farms often stretch through spring planting, hot summers, and fall harvests— each transition is where claims are most likely. A tailored policy roadmap ensures your operation stays resilient from seed to sale.

Take Action

Contact Tom Gotham, Farm Bureau Insurance Agent in Michigan to:

• Schedule a tailored policy review by season.
  
  

• Bundle crop, equipment, liability, auto, and credit insurance.
  
  

• Get proactive advice ahead of spring planting and fall harvest.
  
  

Investing in stage-specific insurance isn’t just smart—it’s essential.