LARGE GOODS VEHICLES
In UK road-freight use, LGV commonly means a large goods vehicle. This guide focuses on goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes—not vans or light commercial vehicles.
Start with the exact vehicle classification
“LGV” is used inconsistently online, so give the broker the vehicle’s plated weight, body type, registration, use and loads rather than relying on the abbreviation alone. A 7.5 tonne rigid, tractor unit, tipper and refrigerated truck can present very different risks.
What a large-goods-vehicle quote may consider
- Gross vehicle weight, value, age, body and modifications
- Carriage of own goods or carriage of goods for hire or reward
- Loads, operating radius, mileage and European use
- Drivers’ licence categories, experience, convictions and claims
- Overnight location, security and fleet risk controls
Cover questions to take to the broker
Third-party motor insurance is the legal minimum for driving on UK roads, but do not assume it will be the lowest-priced quotation. Ask what each quotation covers for damage to the vehicle, fire and theft, windscreens, permitted drivers, territorial use and recovery after an incident.
Goods in transit, public liability, employers’ liability, breakdown and legal expenses may be separate products or optional sections. Availability, limits and exclusions vary. Check the policy schedule and wording rather than assuming they are included.
Driving in the EU
UK motorists generally do not need to carry a Green Card to drive in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia or Switzerland. You still need valid insurance and should check the countries, duration and cover level in your policy before travel. See the current GOV.UK driving-abroad guidance.
Prepare a useful quote brief
Have the vehicle schedule, driver details, operating use, claims history and current or renewal information ready. Describe unusual loads, equipment or contracts accurately and tell the broker if anything changes.
TRUCK INSURANCE QUOTE ENQUIRY
Start a truck insurance enquiryGeneral information only. This website does not provide personal insurance or legal advice.
For a broader explanation of cover levels and policy checks, read the HGV insurance guide.