What insurance do couriers need?

If you're a courier/delivery driver in the UK, then you know that driving comes with a whole host of risks. You could be involved in an accident, or you could suffer a mechanical breakdown. You might even damage someone else's property whilst making a delivery. This is why it's so important for UK delivery drivers to have the right insurance in place to protect them and their livelihoods.

Having the right insurance can help to cover the costs of any unexpected accidents or incidents that may occur whilst on the job. But how do you get the right insurance as a delivery driver in the UK? Read on to find out more about the types of insurance available, what you need to know, and how to get it.

What Types of Insurance Do UK Delivery Drivers Need?

You'll want to make sure you are protected against a number of different types of accidents, incidents, and risks, including van accidents, damage to property, and theft. Here are some of the types of insurance you'll want to make sure you have:

• Comprehensive van insurance - This type of insurance provides cover to third parties and can protect your van in the event of an accident or damage to another van or property. Since you deliver goods you will probably need a policy addon called 'Hire And reward' cover too.
• Breakdown cover - This type of insurance covers the costs of having your van towed if it breaks down. It can also cover the costs of having a rental van if your van is too badly damaged to drive.
• You may also need public liability insurance to cover the costs of any property damage or bodily injury you cause whilst delivering goods to customers.
• There's also insurance to cover your belongings in the event of theft.
• And finally, there's also employers' liability insurance to help pay for the cost of an injury, illness or even death claim if any of your employees are hurt or injured whilst working for you.

What Do You Need to Know Before Choosing an Insurance Plan?

Before you choose an insurance plan, you'll want to make sure it meets your needs and that it offers the cover you need. Whilst some insurance plans are likely to be more affordable than others, it's important to keep in mind that you get what you pay for. If you choose a very cheap plan that doesn't provide the cover you need, then you may end up paying more in the long run.

Here are some things you'll want to think about before choosing an insurance plan:

• Your cover needs - make sure you understand the cover provided by each plan before you choose one. You'll want to make sure you have enough cover to protect you and your business in the event of an accident.
• Your driving record - if you have a less-than-stellar record, you'll want to make sure you choose an insurance plan that will offer you the right amount of protection despite that.
• Your budget - before you choose a plan, you'll want to make sure it fits within your budget.

How to Get the Right Insurance for Your Delivery Business

There are a few steps you can follow to get the right insurance for your delivery business:

• The first step is to decide what insurance types you need for your business. You'll want to make sure you have a plan that covers all of your delivery drivers and the types of deliveries you make.
• Once you know what types of insurance you need, it's time to start shopping around for insurance companies. You can do this by comparing a wide range of insurance providers. This way, you'll be able to find the best cover at the best price.
• Once you've found some insurance providers that offer the types of cover you need, it's time to compare their plans. This way, you make sure you choose the right insurance plan for your business.
• Once you've chosen an insurance company and a plan, it's important to review the terms and conditions of your policy. This way, you make sure you understand the cover provided by your policy and what you need to do in the event of an accident or incident.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Insurance Plan

Now that you have the right insurance plan for your delivery business, here are some tips for getting the most out of your insurance plan:

• It's important to review your policy terms and conditions on a regular basis. This way, you make sure you are aware of any changes or updates that may have been made to your policy since you first got it.
• Keep track of any incidents or accidents - if something does happen, it's important to keep track of it. This way, you make sure you have the proper documentation in place when you need to file a claim with your insurance company. For example, if you get into an accident, you'll want to make sure you have the names and contact information for all parties involved and the police report on hand. If you have a delivery accident or loss, you'll want to make sure you keep a record of the details surrounding the incident and the amount of loss you suffered as a result.
• Make sure you file a claim as soon as possible after an accident occurs, and be sure to keep all the necessary documentation in case you are asked to provide it.
• Finally, you'll also want to consider adding cargo insurance to your commercial insurance policy. This type of insurance - called 'Goods In Transit' cover - can protect your business against the loss or damage of your cargo whilst in transit. It can be especially important if you're regularly hauling sensitive materials, such as food or pharmaceutical products. It's a good idea to check with your van insurance provider since some of them bundle it with a standard Hire and reward Policy.

Conclusion

As a delivery driver, you know that driving comes with a whole host of risks. You could be involved in an accident, or you could suffer a mechanical breakdown. You might even damage someone else's property whilst making a delivery. This is why it's so important for delivery drivers to have the right insurance in place to protect them and their livelihoods.