Do you need business van insurance when you travel to different work sites? In most cases, yes. Ordinary commuting may be limited to one regular place of work, while a plumber, electrician or builder visiting changing sites is using the van as part of the job.
Why the journey pattern matters
Mileage, road types, parking and the contents of the van can change from one contract to the next. Insurers use those details to set terms, so “commuting” should not be used as a shortcut when the van is effectively a mobile workplace.
Carrying your own tools and materials
Transporting tools, stock or materials for your own trade is often described as carriage of own goods. That is different from carrying other people’s goods for payment. Tools are also commonly excluded from the vehicle section and may need separate cover.
Employees moving between sites
If several employees drive, check whether the policy names them individually or uses an any-driver arrangement with age and licence restrictions. Also say if the van is taken home at night.
Information worth having ready
Estimate annual mileage honestly, including travel between sites. Give the main trade, overnight postcode, driver details, security and any racking, signwriting or other changes to the van.
Useful official guidance: vehicle insurance, SORN, MOTs and driving abroad.