The short version
- Key choiceThe right business use. Commuting-only won't cover work.
- Tradespeople usually needCover for carrying your own tools and materials.
- ToolsOften not covered, or only to a low limit.
- Save moneySecurity, a higher voluntary excess and an accurate mileage.
Your van is your workshop on wheels. Get the use class wrong and a claim could be refused, so it pays to understand the basics before buying.
Choose the right use
| Use | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Social, domestic & pleasure | Personal use only. Not for work. |
| Carriage of own goods | Carrying your own tools and materials to jobs. Usual choice for trades. |
| Haulage / courier | Carrying other people's goods for payment. Usually not needed by trades. |
Insurers word these differently, so read the definitions and tell them exactly what you do.
Extras worth thinking about
- Tools in van cover: often a small limit. A separate tool policy may be better.
- Goods in transit: covers materials or goods you're carrying for a job.
- Breakdown cover: a van off the road means no work.
- Courtesy van: a car isn't much use if you carry tools and materials.
- Signwriting: tell your insurer if your van is signwritten.
Ways to lower the price
- Fit approved locks, an alarm and a tracker.
- Park off-road or in a secure yard overnight.
- Set an accurate annual mileage.
- Build a no-claims bonus, and protect it once you have one.
- Compare specialist van insurers as well as comparison sites.
Quick answers
Do I need business van insurance?
If you use the van for work, yes. Personal-only cover won't pay out for work trips.
Does van insurance cover my tools?
Usually only to a small limit, if at all. Consider separate tool insurance.
Does a lease van come with insurance?
Usually not. You normally arrange your own insurance on leased vans.