If your business relies on vans as a mode of transport then you'll know how difficult it can be to find the right insurance. Insurance is a pain for everyone, but for commercial van users it is even more of a hassle.
Too many insurers don't include everything you need them too on your basic insurance premium so you end up forking out more money for things you believe should come as standard. Tools for example, are often excluded from many policies. This seems rather odd seeing as vans are used for transporting tools to and from the work place so getting a separate policy for this is rather unnecessary.
Many tradesmen actually spend more on tools than they do on a van and seeing as their tools are required to do their job, one without the other means no work so no money.
Secondly, breakdown cover is also forgotten. Due to their high usage levels the strain put on your standard white Transit van will mean that it is more likely to breakdown than a car for personal use. However, too many insurers leave this out of their standard policies and charge the world for it as an 'added extra'.
When you are looking for van insurance go to a specialist insurer. Make sure you are specific about your usage and the contents you will be carrying on any given day. Take pictures of your tools as this photographic evidence can mean the difference between getting the proper replacement tools or some low-quality offerings.
Combining breakdown cover as well as contents insurance included with your general van insurance makes more sense, especially for larger business with several different drivers. A good way to navigate the market is through price comparison websites. However, once you have found a deal that you think suits your needs go to the insurer direct because they can usually offer you a better deal.
Also bear in mind and make sure you point out to the insurance company, are the age of the drivers because older drivers may get a discount. In addition, where you store your vans and the level of security around them is important too as locked garages with alarms will lower your premiums.
Depending on the value of your tools and the van itself, in the long term you could save money, by increasing your excess i.e. the amount you pay towards a claim. This will reduce you annual premiums, however in the short term it could be a risky quick fix so make sure you weigh up both sides.
