5 Tips for Finding the Best Van Insurance Policy in 2023

See our 5 tips for finding the best van insurance for your needs in 2023.

When you own a business, your van is vital to providing services, transporting goods, and building relationships with clients and customers. When so much is on the line, it’s essential that you have the right insurance cover. 

5 Tips for Finding the Best Van Insurance Policy in 2023

When looking for the best van insurance policy, shopping around and comparing policies from different insurance providers is essential.

Some tips to keep in mind include the following:

• Compare van insurance options – Make sure you compare the cover options available from different insurance providers to ensure that you get the best policy for your needs.
• Look for discounts – Many insurance companies offer discounts for good driving records, safety features, and multiple vehicles.
• Check the reputation of the insurance provider – Choosing an insurance provider with a good reputation for paying claims and providing good customer service is crucial. Check customer reviews over the last 12 months to see how existing customer experiences the company, particularly regarding customer service and claims experience.
• Add additional cover options – If you frequently drive your van(s) for business, add insurance options like legal cost insurance and personal accident cover.
• Bundle your insurance policies –  If you have multiple vehicles or other insurance policies, bundling them with the same provider can often result in a discount on your van insurance premium. Multiple insurance policies are combined under one provider in a multi-van insurance policy. The van insurance can be bundled with a car or home insurance to receive a discount. This is also called a multi-policy discount or a package discount. Bundling policies with one provider makes managing it easier and can often save you money.

By following these tips and comparing cover options from different insurance providers, you can find the best van insurance policy for your needs.

Van insurance is a type of vehicle insurance specifically designed for vans. Like car insurance, it covers you against financial losses in the event of an accident or theft. However, there are some key differences between car and van insurance.

This guide will examine the different types of van insurance, cover options, and tips for choosing the right policy.

Types of Van Insurance

Three main types of van insurance are available: third-party only, third-party fire and theft, and comprehensive.

Third-party only – is the most basic type of van insurance, and it covers damage or injury to other people or property but does not cover any damage to your van. This type of insurance is typically the cheapest option, but it also offers the least amount of protection.

Third-party fire and theft – is the next level up, and it provides cover for damage to other people or property and covers in the event of your van being stolen or damaged by fire.

Comprehensive van insurance – is the most comprehensive coverage option. It includes all the cover options available in third-party only and third-party fire and theft, as well as insurance for damage to your van, whether it is the result of an accident or theft or fire. It also usually includes additional benefits such as windscreen cover and no-claims discounts.

Van Cover Options

In addition to the basic types of van insurance, various additional insurance options are available.

Some of the most common options include:

• Uninsured motorist cover – This type of van cover policy will pay for repairs to your van if damaged in an accident with an uninsured driver.
• Tools in van insurance – Insurance to cover any tools or kit you have in your van.
• Personal accident protection – Provides additional cover to vehicle occupants on your policy in the event of death or injury caused by an accident. Whilst a comprehensive van insurance policy includes some level of protection, this additional cover will usually extend to every person in the van involved in the accident.
• Windscreen cover – This policy covers repair or replacement costs if your vehicle windscreen is damaged following an accident.
• Breakdown cover – This type of cover will pay for breakdown costs if your van breaks down or needs repairs.
• Legal costs cover – This insurance will provide additional legal cost cover over and above what is provided by a standard policy.
• Driving abroad insurance – Provides additional protection to a standard policy which generally only covers you for 30 days whilst driving outside the UK.

Factors That Affect Van Insurance Premiums

When determining your van insurance premium, there are several factors that insurance companies consider. Some of the most important factors include:

• The type of van – The make and model of your van and its age can affect your insurance premium, as some types of vans are considered riskier to insure than others. Older vans may be cheaper to insure. Generally, the higher the value of your van, the more expensive your insurance will be. When shopping for van insurance, be sure to take the replacement value into account.
• Business type – Different types of businesses require different insurance coverage. The transportation of hazardous materials, for instance, may need additional cover.
• Your driving history – Your driving history, including any past accidents or traffic violations, can also affect your insurance premium. If you have a team of drivers, the age, driving history, and experience of the drivers who will operate your van will impact the cost of your insurance policy.
• Your location –  Where you live in the UK can also affect your insurance premium, as some areas are considered higher risk than others.
• Your age and gender – Younger and male drivers are generally considered higher risk than older and female drivers.
• Your intended use of the van – If you use your van for business purposes, your premium may be higher.

How to Save on Van Insurance

While it is important to get the cover you need, you also want to ensure that you get good value for your money.

There are several ways you can get cheaper van insurance, including:

• Shop around – Compare quotes online from different insurance companies to find the best deal.
• Increase your excess – You can lower your van insurance costs by increasing your excess. However, remember that this also means you’ll have to pay more out of pocket if you need to make a claim.
• Improve your security – Installing devices such as a steering wheel lock or an alarm can help lower your insurance premium.
• Drive less – If you use your van less frequently, you may get a lower insurance premium.
• Take a defensive driving course – Some insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who have completed a defensive driving course.
• Choosing the right cover – Only select the cover options you need, as the more business van insurance you have, the higher the premium.
• Pay your premium in full – Many van insurance providers offer discounts for drivers who pay their premium in full rather than monthly instalments.
• Consider using a dashcam – Some insurers will lower premiums and may depend on your ability to provide footage of an incident as part of the claim process.
• Don’t auto-renew your van insurance policy – Staying with your current insurer may not be your best option. You may get cheaper van insurance quotes elsewhere.

These tips can help you keep your van insurance premiums low while protecting yourself and your vehicle.

Choosing the Best Van Insurance Policy

Choosing the right van insurance policy requires considering your specific needs and budget. Factors such as the make and model of your van, your intended use, and your driving history can all play a role in determining the right level of cover for you.

The type of van you have is an important factor to consider. Suppose you have a large commercial van, such as a Ford transit or a Mercedes Sprinter van. In that case, you may need a more comprehensive policy covering these vehicles’ higher value and potential risks. On the other hand, a third-party-only policy may be sufficient if you have a smaller personal van, such as a Toyota Proace or Citroen Berlingo.

Another factor to consider is your intended use of the van. In addition to covering business-related risks, you may also need commercial van insurance if you deliver goods or transport tools for a living. On the other hand, a personal van insurance policy may be more appropriate if you only use your van for personal use and not for work.

It’s also important to consider your driving history when choosing a van insurance policy. A history of accidents or traffic violations may increase your premium. However, with most insurers, you can transfer your car no-claims to your van if you have a clean driving record.

Conclusion

Insuring your van is important because it protects you and your vehicle. You can find the right van insurance policy for your needs and budget by understanding the different types of available van insurance, the factors affecting your premium, and how to save money. By following the tips in this article, you can maximize your savings and ensure you have the cover you need at a price you can afford.

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