Delivery couriers are paying the most expensive van insurance premiums in the UK, forking out an average of £1,689 a year - £1,307 more than a handyman, who has the cheapest median policy price at just £382, according to a survey by Go.Compare.
The findings from the financial services comparison company are based on internal data from Go.Compare business van insurance, which analysed comprehensive van insurance policies purchased in 2024.
The figures show that jobs involving more time on the road, tight delivery schedules and valuable cargo tend to push premiums up.
Delivery couriers face by far the highest median prices, followed by scaffolders, construction workers and carpet fitters.
Whilst the median van insurance premium for delivery couriers is £1,689, the premium for scaffolders is £603, £582 for construction workers and £499 for plumbers..
In addition, courier professionals pay four times as much as painters and decorators for their van insurance, whose average premium is just £383.
This difference reflects the risk factors that couriers face, including higher annual mileage to frequent stops and valuable items in transit.
In comparison, prices for several van-driving roles such as gardeners or painters and decorators, sit at less than £400 per year.
By industry type the research revealed that the courier industry was the most expensive by more than £1,100. With a median van insurance cost of £1,711, the courier services sector tops the table by a wide margin.
By business type median van insurance costs for courier services came in at £1,711, compared to £606 for corporate hospitality, £564 for road transport and £531 for waste disposal
Tom Banks, motoring expert at Go.Compare, said: “Insurance is all about weighing risks and the more time you spend on the road, the more that risk increases. Couriers are constantly on the move, often working to tight deadlines and carrying valuable parcels, so it’s no surprise that they pay more for cover.
“But even within industries that seem lower risk at first glance, like mobile hairdressing or dog walking, these workers need to travel between clients, which can bump up premiums.
“No matter your profession, the best way to get a good deal is to compare quotes every year, make sure your mileage estimate is accurate, and consider things like security devices or paying annually, which can all help cut the cost of your insurance.”
