The correct answer is C. The type of cargo carried because, in commercial auto underwriting, the use of the vehicle and the nature of what it carries are major factors in determining its class. Insurers classify commercial automobiles based on the exposure they present. A vehicle hauling hazardous materials, heavy equipment, refrigerated goods, or general merchandise may fall into different underwriting categories because each type of cargo creates a different level of risk.

A. The driving record of the driver is important for rating and underwriting, but it does not determine the class of the commercial auto itself . B. History of the owner of the vehicle may influence the insurer’s willingness to write the risk, but it is not the main classification basis for the vehicle. D. Location where the vehicle is garaged can affect territory rating and premium, but it does not determine the commercial class in the same way that business use and cargo type do.

From a RIBO perspective, this question tests the broker’s ability to distinguish between classification factors and rating factors . Commercial auto classes are tied mainly to the vehicle’s business purpose and exposure. Understanding what the vehicle carries helps the broker place the risk correctly and avoid misclassification that could affect both premium and coverage.