Van Insurance: Which Occupations Get The Lowest Quotes on Average?

It’s a vital question for many sole traders, small companies and freelance van owner/drivers of course. The occupation makes a big difference as the number of “drops” can vary enormously in a  typical working day. More stops equals more chances of theft, bumps, dings etc although parking all day in a dodgy area can be more risky. It depends, is always the short answer. Meanwhile here’s some pricing info from Go.Compare.

Handymen, painters and decorators, and gardeners are among the van-driving professions benefiting from the cheapest van insurance policies in the UK, according to new data. The figures show that handymen pay a median premium of just £382 per year, while painters and decorators follow closely at £383.

At the other end of the scale, delivery couriers are paying the most. Van drivers with this job title are forking out an average of £1,689 annually for their insurance. That’s a huge £1,307 more than the cheapest premium per year.

The findings are based on internal data from Go.Compare business van insurance, which analysed comprehensive van insurance policies purchased in 2024. The results highlight how the nature of work can significantly affect what van drivers pay on the road.

Jobs with the cheapest van insurance premiums:

Most of the cheapest jobs for van insurance sit below the £460 mark. Roles are typically local, often with lower mileage, reducing the perceived risk to insurers. That means fewer accidents and less frequent claims – all of which help bring down premiums.

Least expensive business types:

Decorating businesses had the lowest typical premiums in 2024, at just £356, likely because many decorators stay local. Building trades and cleaning services also fared well, with premiums sitting below £460 on average.

In contrast, courier services topped the list for the most expensive sector, with a median premium of £1,711 – that’s 381% higher than decorating businesses. The high mileage, tight deadlines, and valuable cargo that come with delivery work make it a much riskier business in the eyes of an insurer.

Tom Banks, motoring expert at Go.Compare, said: “These figures show just how much your job can influence the cost of your van insurance. If your work keeps you local, involves less driving, or uses tools that aren’t particularly expensive, you’re likely to be seen as a lower risk and your premiums reflect that.

“But for jobs like courier work, where there’s more time on the road, tighter schedules, and higher-value cargo, insurers have to factor in the increased likelihood of accidents or theft. That’s why couriers often pay significantly more.

“No matter what you do, comparing quotes regularly is the best way to keep your costs down. Even small changes to your policy details (like your mileage or where you keep your van) can have a big impact on what you pay, so make sure those details are accurate. Don’t just auto-renew each year, shop around and make sure you’re getting a deal that matches your needs and budget.”

Find out more about the jobs with the highest and lowest van insurance premiums on Go.Compare’s website.