I needed insurance fast for a new job. I downloaded both Next Insurance and Thimble apps. Both promised “Instant Certificates.” But when I looked at the actual Tool Coverage (Inland Marine), the differences were massive. One was a safety net; the other was a sieve.
Key Takeaways
- Next is Better for Bundles: Next shines when you want General Liability, Auto, and Tools all in one place. Their tool coverage is solid but standardized.
- Thimble is Better for Flexibility: Thimble allows on-demand (hourly/daily) policies, which is great for gig work, but their tool limits can be lower for high-value gear.
- The “Per Item” Limit: Check this carefully. Next often has a higher per-item limit on blanket coverage than Thimble.
- Exclusions: Both are strict about “Unattended Vehicle” theft. Do not expect either to pay if you left your doors unlocked.
The “Why” (The Trap): The “Add-On” Mindset
For these App-based insurers, Tool Coverage is an upsell (add-on) to the General Liability.
Because it’s an add-on, it is often generic. You can’t customize it easily (e.g., “I need Agreed Value for my vintage plane”). You get what the algorithm gives you.
The Investigation: “I Called Them” (I Downloaded Them)
I ran a quote for a Carpenter in Texas.
1. Next Insurance
- Flow: Added “Tools & Equipment” to GL.
- Blanket Limit: Up to $15,000.
- Per Item: $500 or $1,000 options.
- Pros: Seamless integration. Good monthly rates (~$25/mo for tools).
- Cons: Hard to talk to a human if you have a complex claim.
2. Thimble
- Flow: “Inland Marine” added to GL.
- Flexibility: Could buy a policy for just 3 days.
- Limits: Often lower max limits ($2,500 – $5,000) unless you call.
- Pros: Perfect for the “weekend warrior” contractor.
- Cons: Deductibles can be high relative to the coverage duration.
3. Traditional Broker (The Control)
- Comparison: A broker could write a $50,000 tool policy with specific scheduling.
- Verdict: Broker wins for big fleets; Apps win for solo handymen.
Comparison Table: Next vs. Thimble (2026)
| Feature | Next Insurance | Thimble |
| Policy Duration | Monthly / Annual | Hourly / Daily / Monthly |
| Max Blanket Limit | Higher ($15k+) | Lower (varies) |
| Speed to COI | Instant | Instant |
| Best For | Full-time Solo Biz | Part-time / Gig / Short jobs |
| Tool Theft Deductible | ~$500 | ~$500 – $1,000 |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Download Both: Run a quote on both. It takes 5 minutes.
- Compare the “Inland Marine” Section: Don’t look at the total price yet. Look at “Tools & Equipment Deductible” and “Max Limit per Item.”
- Check the “Locked Vehicle” Clause: Read the sample policy PDF. Which one has stricter language about vehicle theft? (Usually similar, but check).
- Decide based on Frequency: If you work every day, get Next (Annual). If you work 3 days a month, get Thimble (On-Demand).
FAQ
Q: Can I buy just tool insurance without Liability?
A: Usually no. Both apps require the base General Liability policy to attach the tool floater.
Q: Do they cover rented tools?
A: Check the endorsements. Next often includes a small limit for rented gear; Thimble might not.
[IMAGE: Split screen of phone: Next App “Policy Active” vs Thimble App “Policy Active”.]