If you drive a transit van for either personal or business needs, or both, it is essential to make sure you have the correct type of insurance cover. Despite what you may have been told about transit van insurance being expensive due to some people’s perception that many road traffic accidents are caused by ‘white van man’, insurance companies offer some very competitive rates for careful drivers.

If you have any no claims discounts make sure you tell the insurance companies when asking for a quotation. Huge savings can be made on the premiums, with some insurers offering massive no claims discounts which can reduce the cost of the insurance dramatically.

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.

Breakdown and roadside assistance. Restrictions will apply within the policy. Usually the gross vehicle weight is restricted to 3.5 tons. If you need to have full breakdown, roadside assistance or home-start cover it will be advisable to speak with the insurers to arrange for this to be added to the policy, there will be additional costs involved.

If you carry valuable items which exceed the insurance limits it will be possible to insure these separately. The insurance companies will advise as to the best possible cover required.

Having tracking devices fitted is becoming a requirement of the terms and conditions of the insurance with many insurers as trackers can help reduce the risk of total loss claims. Check whether this is a requirement by making enquiries with the insurers or reading the terms and conditions of the policy and schedule.

Limited mileage discounts. The amount of unlimited miles can vary greatly between insurers. If your courier service only operates within a specific radius it is worth while mentioning this to see whether further discounts can be offered.

Failure to do so may make your insurance invalid or may mean that should you need to make a claim goods which are considered ‘target goods’, those which are a greater risk of being stolen such as electrical goods and computer parts, you will only receive 50% of their value.