If you own a skip lorry, whether for business or personal use, you need insurance. But it can be expensive, so it’s smart to compare different options in the UK. Using a comparison service helps you get multiple quotes from insurance companies that specialise in lorry insurance. Whether you’re getting a new policy or renewing an old one, filling out a quick online form can help you compare prices and coverage easily.
Insurance for skip lorries is essential because these vehicles are large, heavy, and used to carry loads that can be risky. Without proper coverage, you could face huge costs if your lorry is involved in an accident, stolen, or damaged. Insurance can also protect you from liability if your vehicle causes harm to others or damages property. That’s why taking the time to understand your options and securing the best policy is important for both safety and financial security.
Ways to Save Money on Skip Lorry Insurance
Every vehicle on the road must have insurance by law. This is especially important for large trucks like skip lorries because they can cause more damage in an accident. Unlike smaller cars, skip lorries require special policies due to their size, weight, and usage.
The cost of your insurance depends on your lorry’s weight. Skip lorries fall into the ‘heavy vehicle’ category, weighing between 11,794 kg and 14,969 kg. That’s the same as cranes, garbage trucks, and tractors. Heavier vehicles are riskier to drive, which means insurance costs more. Additionally, skip lorries are often driven in urban areas where they frequently stop and start, increasing the chances of collisions.
If you want to lower your premium, consider these factors:
- Secure parking – Parking your lorry in a secure, monitored area reduces theft risk and could lower costs.
- Telematics and tracking – Installing a GPS tracker or telematics device can demonstrate safe driving habits to insurers.
- Multiple drivers vs named drivers – Limiting the policy to named drivers with good records may lower your premium.
- Annual mileage – The fewer miles you drive, the lower your risk, which could reduce costs.
Choosing the Right Insurance
It’s important to pick the right kind of insurance for your needs. Here are some things to think about:
- Type of Cover: You can choose third-party only, third-party fire and theft, or fully comprehensive cover.
- How You Use It: Your policy should match whether you use the lorry for business, contract work, or personal jobs.
- Extra Cover: You might need options like goods-in-transit insurance, public liability, or breakdown assistance.
- Legal expenses insurance: This can help with legal fees if you need to go to court due to a claim.
- Personal accident cover: Provides financial help if you or your drivers are injured in an accident.
- Employer’s liability insurance: If you employ drivers, this is a legal requirement to protect them in case of accidents.
How an Insurance Broker Can Help
Looking for insurance can feel overwhelming, but a broker can make it easier. Instead of calling lots of insurers yourself, a broker can:
- Find policies that match your needs.
- Suggest ways to save money, like fleet insurance if you own more than one vehicle.
- Help you get the best deal on your insurance.
- Explain policy details and help you understand exactly what’s covered and what’s not.
- Negotiate on your behalf for better rates and additional benefits.
Working with a broker who specialises in lorry insurance means you’re more likely to find a policy that suits your specific requirements without unnecessary extras.
Why Skip Lorry Insurance Costs More
Insuring a skip lorry can be pricey because:
- They are heavy. The lorry itself is big, plus the skip adds extra weight.
- They carry tough loads. The cargo inside is usually heavy and sometimes dangerous.
- They can cause serious damage. Because they’re so large, accidents can be more severe.
- They are used for business purposes. Business vehicles tend to be driven more frequently and in riskier conditions than personal vehicles.
- They require specialist parts and repairs. Fixing a skip lorry can be costly, which impacts insurance pricing.
How to Get a Better Deal
Here are some ways to lower your insurance cost:
- Compare different quotes to find the best price.
- Use security features like GPS trackers or immobilisers to reduce the risk of theft.
- Choose a higher excess if you can afford it to lower your premium.
- Check driver records—experienced drivers with no claims often get cheaper insurance.
- Consider fleet insurance if you have multiple vehicles, as it may be cheaper than insuring each one separately.
- Pay annually rather than monthly to avoid interest charges.
- Join a trade association as some groups offer discounted insurance rates to members.
Understanding Policy Exclusions
When comparing policies, always check for exclusions. Some policies may not cover:
- Unlicensed or unregistered drivers – If a driver doesn’t have the correct licence, your policy may not be valid.
- Wear and tear – General maintenance issues aren’t usually covered.
- Negligence – If an accident happens due to reckless driving, your claim could be denied.
- Using the vehicle outside the agreed area – Some policies have location restrictions.
Skip lorry insurance is a must, but that doesn’t mean you have to overpay. Take your time to compare options, understand what cover you need, and talk to a broker if you need help finding the best deal. By making smart choices, such as improving security, reducing mileage, and choosing the right cover, you can keep your costs down while ensuring your business stays protected.