How many vans are to be covered in the policy 2. The weight of the van (s) 3. The make and model of the van (s) 4. Your geographical location 5. The age and experience of the van drivers 6. Whether or not the van drivers are named (or an ‘any driver’ van insurance policy is required) 7. The security of the van(s) - e.g. whether alarms, immobilisers or trackers are installed 8. Claim history 9. What the van will be used for 10. The excess
It is really important that you obtain appropriate insurance cover for your van(s); rather than simply going for the cheapest quote you can find. Broadly speaking van insurance policies can be split into two distinct categories:
The next level is cover for each individual vehicle. This may be very useful for those who have a fleet of vehicles, particularly if you regularly carry dangerous goods. By restricting the transportation of dangerous goods to one vehicle means that the vehicle can be insured appropriately - While the remainder of the fleet can be insured at a lower premium. If this type of scenario applies to your business it is advisable to speak with the courier van insurance company to discuss the options available.
A further option of having each consignment is also available from many insurance companies. The cover can be short term to provide insurance cover for the duration which the consignment is onboard. Check with the insurers to see whether they offer this option.
Having a 100% All Risks cover included within the Goods In Transit option will provide cover should the goods be stolen or damaged while they are in transit and cover should the goods be damaged which is caused by an accident while they are in transit.
All risks options are not generally included with a Goods In Transit policy they are counted as optional extras for which additional costs will be incurred due to the higher amount of cover they provide. This type of option usually comes with strict restrictions and exemptions. It is therefore wise to discuss exactly what is and isn’t covered and read the schedule and policy very carefully when it arrives.
By installing proper security device in the van, you can also make your van insurance program cheap. Really, some security devices provide assurance against theft.
If your van is damaged as a result of an accident, you may need a replacement van in order to continue to do business - again as the cost to rent vehicles can be high, it may be worth having this included on your van insurance policy.