There are many classifications of vehicle use when it comes to auto insurance. Insurance companies look into these to determine insurance premiums and extent of coverage. The classification is determined by many factors, but usually it's either the owner's profession or the type of vehicle in question. For instance, a dump truck will always be a dump truck, and will never be listed for personal use.

These are the different types of classifications:

1. Personal/Pleasure
Falling under this category are vehicles which are neither used for work nor school and are solely for personal use, like driving to the store. Excess household vehicles can also count as personal/pleasure.

2. Commute
This pertains to vehicles used to drive to school or work, but not used during work. It's the most common type and doesn't have a surcharged premium.

3. Business
This type generally has some surcharge. Under this category are vehicles used during work, but not for carrying materials and equipment. Examples of this type of use are real estate agents driving between different properties, or an inspector who goes to multiple places during work hours.

4. Artesian
This is for drivers with professions which require a lot of driving like plumbers, carpenters, and handymen. While light equipment and tools can be carried, Artesian-class vehicles would never carry heavy machinery or building equipment/materials. These types of vehicles have a surcharge added onto the regular insurance policy.

5. Commercial
The heaviest type of use, this normally requires a commercial insurance policy. This type of use is usually reserved to commercial vehicles or vehicles modified for commercial use like trucks or vans. Due to its use, it's normally the most expensive type of insurance policy.

Listing down the appropriate vehicle use is important when applying for auto insurance. Classification of vehicle use helps the insurance company determine what kind of insurance policy you would receive, and falsification or failure to notify can result in policy cancellation.

If your vehicle has changed from one classification to another and you are still under the insurance policy appropriate to your vehicle's previous classification, it is important to update your insurance agent about this.

Always keep in mind that auto insurance regulations may differ from state to state, so if you're moving from Maryland to South Dakota you might want to update your insurer as well.

It's best to look for an insurance company that accepts your classification and provide reasonable insurance rates. Autoinsuranceselect.com helps you find insurance companies with the best rates. Just select your state and click Get Quotes. For instance, if you want quotes from the state of Oklahoma, select 'Oklahoma' from the drop-down list and click the Get Quotes button.