E&S Portal Enables Automatic Quote Process for Non-Standard Markets

ROSELAND, N.J., Nov. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Crump Insurance Services, Inc. (Crump P&C) introduces an insurance market portal using Seapass Solutions, Inc. technology to provide retail agents with online access to Excess & Surplus lines markets through Crump. This new approach enables retail agents to receive multiple indications from a single submission in real time. It is the first such automated system with fully nationwide E&S product capabilities through multiple carriers.

In the first release of this new Crump portal, submissions originate from one of two SeaPass enabled channels– either through Insurance Noodle, an online quoting hub for insurance agents or through the BOLT Insurance Agency (a SeaPass company). The retail agent requests an online indication through one of these systems. The online submission is sent first to standard markets for coverage. If the submission is declined by standard markets, it is then automatically submitted online to Crump markets for E&S quotes. A further release of the portal, scheduled for 1st Quarter 2012, will enable new and existing retail agents working with Crump to access automated E&S indications and quotes in real time.

The ability to obtain online results in real time creates a more efficient system for agencies whose volume of small business demands faster turnaround and better service.  Initially, the new portal will provide indications for GL and Package policies only. The system will expand to other lines in the future.

In this first release of the portal, two markets are available to provide instant indication for agents. These markets are Western World and Catlin with additional markets available in 2012.

When interviewed for this story, Dave Obenauer, President of Crump Insurance Services, Inc. commented, "Our retail clients have been expressing a desire to place small business E&S accounts more effectively. Small business demands low touch efficiency, which is what our retail agents will have with this system. An agent needs to produce a quote quickly – response time is key to writing small business effectively. This automated system, enabled by SeaPass' technological advances combined with Crump's broad carrier relationships and binding authorities, allows easy access and quick turnaround for our agents."

Tim Attia, Senior Vice President of Sales, SeaPass, added, "In addition to online straight-through quoting, the combination of Crump's E&S capabilities and SeaPass' portal solution will provide advanced collaboration and workflow for both online and offline carriers to support submissions for small and mid-sized commercial business. The technology that enables a retail agent to complete a single submission and get multiple E&S quotes is the first of its kind nationwide. We are excited to join with Crump in this venture."

The partnership between SeaPass Solutions and Crump Insurance Services brings together two market leaders to enable a combined offering which will provide agents with fully automated, online access to the widest selection of commercial lines products -- from admitted to E&S, and from standard to specialty programs.

About SeaPass Solutions

Headquartered in New York and founded in 2000, SeaPass Solutions offers solutions that enable insurance carriers, agents, brokers and wholesalers to better connect, communicate, and manage the business.  With a singular focus of enhancing the quality and timeliness of communications between insurers and their distribution channels and customers, SeaPass provides consumer and agency portal as well as comparative rating solutions.  For more information visit www.seapass.com or call 212-608-4646.

About Crump Insurance Services

Crump Insurance Services, Inc. (Crump P&C) is a division of Crump Group, the nation's largest insurance wholesaler.  Crump Insurance Services includes Crump wholesale brokerage locations across the U.S. and in Bermuda, Five Star Specialty Programs, Five Star Professional Programs, Target Insurance Services, and Hanleigh Insurance. Additional information on these companies is available at www.crumpins.com.

SOURCE Crump Insurance Services, Inc.