Tips for saving on van insurance
Driving a van in the UK without appropriate cover is illegal and leaves you liable for any damage caused to property or people. Specialist van insurers are able to design a cover to meet your exact specifications, so whether your van is used for business purposes or domestic reasons there will be a policy to suit.
Most van insurance providers offer different levels of cover for sole trader, private and business van usage. There are different policy types such as third party, fire and theft and comprehensive cover. For business users, policies are available whereby the van is insured instead of a specific person, allowing the number of authorised drivers to use the vehicle. Alternatively, employees who are likely to use the van can be named on the policy; this usually has the advantage of a discount.
Most van insurers include cover for windscreens, tools, keys, locks, van fixtures and audio equipment as standard in a comprehensive policy, however, these are usually available as add-ons to lower cover levels if required. Additionally, legal expenses and breakdown cover insurance can be added. When you purchase van insurance there are ways to lower your insurance. This guide is designed to give you ten tips on how to do so.
- Use your voluntary excess – The excess is the first part of a claim that is paid by you. You can get this cost back if the claim is deemed ‘non-fault’ by your insurer. Hence, by increasing the amount you will pay in voluntary excess, you can lower your premiums.
- Prove your experience – Proving your experience can help you decrease the cost of your van insurance. Some van insurance companies apply discounts if you can show proof of driving other company vehicles.
- Declare your No Claims Bonus – Some van insurers will mirror your No Claims Bonus from your car onto your van, although you should remember that you are unable to transfer this bonus.
- Towing your trailer – Many van drivers need to tow trailers and machinery in order for jobs to be carried out. The most important factor to look at when towing a trailer is to check it’s weight. Remember not to exceed the weight limits of the trailer as this is illegal and can result in penalty points, thus increasing your van insurance.
- Improve your security – One key thing to do in order to lower your van insurance is to lower the risk, by protecting it and improving its security. Try to store your van in a garage or install an alarm. If your insurer knows this, they will most likely lower your premium.
- Drive less – The less mileage you have on your van then the less expensive the premium should be.
- Bumper sticker – You can lower your cost by placing a bumper sticker on your van, which asks people to phone if you drive poorly.
- Renewal – If you are looking to renew your van insurance, it is sometimes better to re-apply and get a new quote, as it is often lower than the renewal one.
- Van size – In this case, size does matter. When buying a van, consider the engine size and cost, as this can affect your van insurance premium.
- Shop around – There are many different insurers with a variety of policies and rates.
Now you know more about van insurance you can have a van-tastic time!
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