Tag: business van insurance

Van Insurance Crisis: Why Couriers Are Being Financially Punished

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

Couriers are paying more for van insurance than any other profession in the UK — and the numbers are brutal.

In 2025, delivery drivers are forking out four times more than some tradespeople.

But why the surge?

And more importantly, what can you do about it?

You’re about to find out what’s really driving your premium through the roof — and how to bring it crashing back down.

Van Insurance: Why Are Delivery Drivers Hit The Hardest?

Let’s not sugar-coat it:

As a result, delivery drivers are getting financially punished just for doing their jobs.

According to a 2025 industry survey, the average van insurance premium for couriers is £1,689 per year.

That’s not just high — it’s over £1,300 more than the national low.

By contrast, handymen are only paying around £382 annually.

What’s behind the massive gap?

Here’s the breakdown:

  • Couriers cover more miles
  • Make frequent stops
  • They carry valuable items in transit
  • Work to tight, time-sensitive deadlines
  • And they’re often navigating high-traffic zones

Spend more time on the road?
More risk on the books.
More cash out of your pocket.

It’s that simple — and that unfair.

Which Jobs Face The Most Expensive Van Insurance?

Now let’s put things into perspective.

While couriers top the list, they’re not the only ones feeling the pressure.

Here’s how other professions stack up:

  • Scaffolders – £603
  • Construction workers – £582
  • Plumbers – £499
  • Painters and decorators – just £383

In fact, many of these trades fall below the £600 mark.

Compare that to the £1,689 couriers pay and it’s a jaw-dropper.

But it gets worse.

Scaffolders and construction workers arguably face physical risks too.

Despite this, delivery drivers are still the ones facing the steepest renewal hikes.

Why?

Because insurance isn’t about danger — it’s about likelihood.

And couriers?

They’re constantly moving, increasing their exposure with every parcel drop.

Couriers vs Everyone Else — A Brutal Comparison 

Let’s zoom out.

Some of the lowest van insurance premiums in the UK are found in:

  • Gardening
  • Painting
  • Decorating
  • General maintenance

These trades typically keep their mileage low, their routes local, and their cargo cheap.

Delivery drivers, on the other hand, are on the road all day, carrying goods that range from mobile phones to fragile glassware.

Even small differences in mileage or van usage can skyrocket costs.

Here’s the kicker:

According to data, courier van drivers pay over 4x more than decorators for the same vehicle class.

If that sounds insane, it’s because it is.

Learn more about how this might affect your current policy here.

Are You Paying More Van Insurance Than You Should?

Here’s the good news:

You don’t need to accept a sky-high premium.

Even if you’re a courier, there are ways to get cheap van insurance without compromising on cover.

Let’s break them down:

  1. Update your mileage estimate
    Overstating it? You’re throwing money away. Understating it? You risk voiding your policy.
  2. Add security features
    Steering locks, alarms, and immobilisers = instant credibility with insurers.
  3. Pay annually
    Monthly instalments come with interest. Avoid it if you can.
  4. Use comparison tools
    Don’t stay loyal — get quotes every year. No excuses.
  5. Install a dashcam or black box
    Show them how safely you drive. Let the data work in your favour.

For more quick wins, check out this article:
Navigating The Soaring Rise In Van Insurance Costs

Why “Low-Risk” Jobs Aren’t Always Safe From High Premiums

You might think you’re safe because you’re not delivering Amazon parcels.

But think again.

Professions like:

  • Dog walkers
  • Mobile barbers
  • Freelance photographers

…may look low-risk on paper, but they involve constant travel between clients.

And yes, that still counts.

Insurers see movement as mileage.
Mileage as risk.
Risk as cash.

That’s the uncomfortable truth: it’s not what you do — it’s how far and how often you do it.

If you’re not careful, you could be overpaying without realising it.

Here’s why understanding your van’s compliance status is also crucial:
Why Proper Vehicle Compliance Is Crucial For Road Safety

Courier Insurance by Business Type: Who Pays What?

So far, we’ve looked at specific roles.

Now let’s shift the focus slightly — to entire industries.

When comparing van insurance premiums by business type, the difference is staggering.

Let’s take a look:

  • Courier services – £1,711
  • Corporate hospitality – £606
  • Road transport – £564
  • Waste disposal – £531

As you can see, couriers are paying over £1,100 more than some other sectors.

But why?

First of all, courier businesses often combine tight schedules, high mileage, and urban navigation.

As a result, their vehicles are exposed to far more claim scenarios than, say, a waste collection van on a fixed rural route.

Moreover, because many couriers operate in built-up areas, they’re more likely to face issues like traffic accidents, theft, and delivery damage claims.

In other words, couriers are battling on multiple fronts — and insurers know it.

Thankfully, there are steps you can take to lower your risk profile.

For instance, telematics can work wonders for your driving score and premium.

Find out more:
How Telematics Devices Can Save You Money on Van Insurance

The Real Reason Van Insurance Is Skyrocketing

Now that we’ve explored the data, let’s dig into the real reasons behind the rise.

In reality, several intertwined factors are driving insurance costs through the roof — not just one.

Let’s start with what’s impossible to ignore — couriers spend more time on the road than almost anyone else.

The longer you’re out, the higher your chances of something going wrong.

Secondly — and just as critical — online shopping exploded after the pandemic, flooding roads with delivery vans.

That means more vans, more parcels, and yes — more opportunities for accidents or claims.

Third, insurers also factor in location.

What’s more, delivering in the city means constant stops, tight streets, and far greater exposure to incidents.

This means more vehicles. More pedestrians, and more potential collisions.

Because of all this, insurers increase premiums as a protective measure.

Not out of malice — but mathematics.

Still, understanding the logic doesn’t make the cost any easier to swallow.

And if you’re a sole trader or part of the gig economy, the impact is often worse — simply because you lack the negotiating power of bigger firms.

So, what can you do to stay competitive and insured?

This article explains how some tradespeople are adapting their travel habits:
Why UK Tradespeople Travel Further for Better Pay and More Work

Conclusion

Truth be told, working as a courier often feels like an uphill battle — especially when it comes to insurance.

But don’t let the numbers win.

There are smart, strategic moves you can make today to slash your premium and still get quality cover.

  • Shop around
  • Declare your mileage accurately
  • Invest in van security
  • Use tech like dashcams or telematics
  • Always compare — every single year

And remember:

Just because your profession carries risk, doesn’t mean your insurance has to carry a massive price tag.

Want to learn more?

Check out these related guides:

Is Van Insurance Getting Cheaper? What You Need to Know

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

Van insurance premiums in the UK are seeing an interesting shift.

While premiums are up 9.5% annually, younger drivers are finally seeing some relief.

If you’re looking for cheap van insurance, staying informed about these trends is crucial.

Van insurance prices have been volatile over the past year.

Consumer Intelligence reports a 9.5% rise in premiums over the past 12 months.

It’s a hefty increase that’s impacting many drivers across the UK.

But here’s the good news: some prices are beginning to trend downward.

In July, one of the most competitive insurers led a 3% price drop across the board.

This was a welcome change for many drivers.

However, this shift was temporary.

Premiums crept back up soon after, affecting most van owners.

But with these fluctuations, we’re seeing the first signs that rates could be softening again.

So, what does this mean for you?

If you’re in the market for cheap van insurance, these shifts might just offer a glimmer of hope.

Van Insurance Drops For Younger Drivers

It’s not all doom and gloom.

Younger drivers, those under 25, are among the few seeing real relief.

In the last year, this group experienced a 2.2% average drop in premiums.

Yes, you read that right,

In a market where prices are rising for most, young van drivers actually have an edge.

Why the decline?

For insurers, younger drivers have traditionally represented a higher risk.

But recent data shows under-25s are taking steps to reduce their risks.

Some may be installing dash cams, opting for telematics, or choosing safer routes.

And this is crucial because any reduction in perceived risk can mean savings.

If you’re under 25, now might be the perfect time to shop around.

Click here to explore van insurance for new drivers.

Many young drivers are reducing rates through this technology, and insurers are often happy to reward these efforts.

Current Price Ranges For New Policies

What should drivers expect to pay right now?

According to September 2024 data, most quoted premiums for new van insurance policies range between £500 and £749.

Around 18% of quotes fall into this category.

Another 17% come in a bit higher, within the £750 to £999 range.

Why does this matter?

If you’re seeking very cheap van insurance, knowing these ranges is critical.

It helps you gauge whether your quote is fair or if more shopping around is wise.

Even small adjustments, like reassessing your van’s usage type, can move you toward the lower end of these brackets.

Impact On Older Drivers (25 and Over)

For drivers aged 25 to 49 and those over 50, premiums are moving in the opposite direction.

In the past year, the average premium for drivers in the 25-49 range rose by 11.5%.

Over-50s saw a similar hike, with a 10.2% increase.

This is no small jump.

For these age groups, who often receive competitive rates, this upward trend is significant.

So, what’s causing these rises?

For starters, the overall increase in claims and repair costs is a key factor.

Even drivers with clean records are seeing their costs increase.

But don’t give up hope just yet.

There are still options for managing these increases.

For instance, some insurers offer discounts for additional safety features or policy bundling.

Van Insurance Differences By Usage Type

How you use your van impacts your insurance rates significantly.

Drivers using vans for social, domestic, and pleasure purposes saw premiums rise by 13.1%.

Tradespeople experienced a more moderate 8.4% increase.

Why the difference?

Insurers tend to assess risks differently based on usage.

Vans used solely for personal purposes may face higher premiums.

These users typically drive longer, unregulated routes, which insurers consider higher risk.

Meanwhile, tradespeople, who have more predictable, work-related routes, receive relatively lower increases.

To learn more about proper vehicle compliance, which can sometimes lower premiums.

Check out our guide on vehicle compliance for road safety.

Delivery And Part-Time Work Risk Considerations

As more people turn to part-time delivery work, insurers are starting to pay closer attention to how vans are used.

In today’s market, the demand for food and package delivery has skyrocketed.

With this rise, many drivers are using their vans for both personal and business purposes.

Yet, this dual use can mean higher premiums, as insurers see part-time delivery as a greater risk.

Why?

Because vans used for deliveries often cover more miles.

Face traffic more frequently, and may even be at risk during unsupervised hours.

So, if you’re considering part-time delivery, you might want to look into dedicated delivery insurance.

Not only can it provide more coverage, but it could also lower your risk in the eyes of insurers.

In the end, it’s all about managing your risk profile.

For more insights on the type of insurance you might need:

Explore our article on business van insurance options.

When we look back over the years, the trend is clear: van insurance premiums have climbed steadily.

Since Consumer Intelligence began collecting data, social, domestic, and pleasure use premiums have risen by an astonishing 269.7%.

Meanwhile, the premiums for tradespeople have increased by 183.5%.

That’s a significant rise.

With each year, as new risks and claims emerge, premiums are gradually shifting upward.

So, what does this mean for drivers today?

It means that finding the cheapest van insurance in the UK has become more challenging.

However, this historical trend also highlights the value of staying proactive.

For example,

If you’re a tradesperson, having a consistent driving record could position you for better rates.

Tips For Securing The Cheapest Van Insurance

Now, let’s get to the part you’ve been waiting for.

Practical tips to keep your premiums low.

Here’s the first tip: consider telematics.

Telematics devices track your driving habits, and insurers often reward safer drivers with reduced rates.

By installing one, you could potentially save hundreds on your premium.

Next, make sure your van is properly secured and compliant with road safety standards.

Having security features like immobilisers and tracking devices can lower your premiums.

It’s all about showing insurers you’re serious about safety.

Additionally, don’t overlook the benefits of shopping around.

Each insurer has its own way of calculating risk, meaning a bit of research could reveal a surprisingly cheap van insurance option.

To dive deeper into savings tips, take a look at top ways to reduce your van insurance premiums.

Conclusion

While van insurance premiums in the UK may have risen overall, certain groups are beginning to see relief.

Staying informed can make all the difference.

Remember, the more you understand about these trends, the better equipped you’ll be to find the best rates.

So, don’t let premium increases get the best of you.

Keep exploring options, tailoring your coverage to your needs, and staying proactive.

For more insights and tips, visit these related articles:

Can I Get Van Insurance As A New Driver

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

New driver van insurance.

Getting on the road with a van in the UK isn’t just about passing your driving test;

It’s also about securing the right insurance.

For new drivers, especially those under 25, this can seem like a daunting task with high costs and various policies to navigate.

So, what can you do?

Understanding Van Insurance For New Drivers

Why is Van Insurance Expensive for New Young Drivers?

Van insurance premiums are notoriously higher for young drivers due to their lack of driving experience and statistically higher risk of being involved in accidents.

Insurers assess risk based on a variety of factors including age, driving history, and even the type of vehicle being insured.

For young drivers, these factors often work against them, making it challenging to find cost-effective insurance.

In the UK, it’s legally required to insure your van before you drive it on public roads.

This is not just a formality but a necessity to protect yourself and others in case of an accident.

Without proper insurance, you could face severe penalties including fines, disqualification from driving, and having your vehicle seized.

So, what do you need to know?

The Impact Of Age On Insurance Costs

Insurance companies often set higher premiums for younger drivers, typically those under 25.

This is because younger drivers are viewed as high-risk due to their inexperience.

Some insurers even set minimum age limits on their policies, which can limit options for younger van drivers.

What else should you consider?

Levels Of Van Insurance

Understanding the different levels of van insurance can help you choose the best option for your needs.

The three main levels of coverage include:

Third-Party Only (TPO): This is the minimum level required by law. It covers damages or injuries to third parties but not your own vehicle in the case of an accident.

Despite being the least comprehensive, TPO can sometimes be more expensive for young drivers because insurers perceive a higher risk with this group.

Third-Party, Fire, and Theft (TPFT): This level provides the same coverage as TPO but also covers your vehicle in case of fire damage or theft.

It’s a middle-ground option that offers some protection for your own vehicle while keeping costs relatively manageable.

Comprehensive: Often surprisingly, this can be the cheapest option for young drivers. It covers damages to both third parties and your own vehicle, regardless of who is at fault in an accident.

It provides the most extensive coverage and can sometimes come at a lower premium than less comprehensive policies due to the lower risk perceived by insurers when drivers opt for more protection.

Curious to learn more?

Learn more about van insurance options

Goods In Transit And Other Special Policies

If you’re transporting goods, whether as a courier or for specific business deliveries, ‘Goods in Transit’ insurance is essential. It protects against loss or damage while moving goods from one place to another.

For drivers using their vans for frequent, specific delivery routes (haulage), specialised haulage insurance provides tailored coverage that fits the repetitive nature of this work.

Looking for specific advice?

Discover more about business van insurance

Factors Influencing Costs

Various factors influence the cost of van insurance:

Age and Experience: Younger, less experienced drivers usually face higher premiums.

Driving History: Points on your license or past offenses can increase costs.

Location: High-risk areas with higher rates of vehicle theft or accidents may see elevated premiums.

Vehicle Type: Larger engines or high-performance models often lead to higher insurance costs.

Can you manage these costs?

Yes, and the next section will explain how.

Learn how to manage insurance costs

Effective Strategies To Lower Van Insurance Costs

Ready to cut costs? Here’s how:

Choose the Right Van

Selecting a van in a low insurance group is a smart move. These vehicles are usually cheaper to insure because they pose less risk to insurers.

Why does this matter?

A smaller engine size generally leads to lower premiums. Before purchasing your van, check which insurance group it falls into to estimate future insurance costs.

Enhance Security

Adding security features such as alarms, immobilisers, or trackers can significantly reduce your premiums. Insurers often offer discounts for vans that are less likely to be stolen or broken into.

Adjust Your Excess

Increasing your voluntary excess — the amount you pay in the event of a claim — can lower your premium. However, ensure it’s an amount you can comfortably afford if you need to make a claim.

Add An Experienced Driver

Including a more experienced driver on your policy might reduce your premium, as the overall risk is averaged over two drivers. Just ensure the experienced driver uses the van; otherwise, this could be considered fronting, which is illegal.

Consider A Telematics Policy

A black box or telematics policy tracks your driving behavior, including speed, acceleration, and braking. Safe driving can lead to lower premiums at renewal.

Is this right for you?

Find out if telematics could save you money

Compare And Shop Around

Never settle for the first quote you receive. Use comparison websites and check different insurers to find the best deal that suits your specific needs.

Conclusion

Securing affordable van insurance as a young driver in the UK isn’t just about finding the cheapest quote; it’s about understanding your needs and how to meet them while minimising costs.

By implementing these strategies, you can not only save on your current premium but also position yourself for cheaper premiums in the future.

Remember, every driver’s journey is unique:

Tailor your approach, and keep these tips in mind to navigate the complexities of van insurance efficiently.

 

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