In any business, insurance is essential. It’s especially important in the field of courier work where you’re encountering a range of situations on a daily basis. Not only is it vital for your own protection (and that of your employees), but it’s a key factor in maintaining the reputation of your company.
When it comes to a courier work business, there are four basics that need to be covered. The world of insurance can be a little daunting, even for the most experienced of business owners, so here’s an easy-to-understand rundown of what you need and why.
Vehicle Insurance
As a professional doing courier work, whether you’re a business owner or employee, protecting your most valuable asset (your mode of transport) is a must. No matter what you use, be it vans, cars, even bikes, they all require insurance to protect you, other drivers and the vehicle itself from any eventuality.
When purchasing these kinds of policies, the liability of the driver also needs to be considered. This will depend on multiple factors, from age and experience to the number of points on their licence. It’s also worth knowing that any additional systems fitted in the vehicle, such as a dash cam, for example, will have an effect on the cost. So, while they might appear to be a pricey accessory to start off with, they can be a very worthwhile investment in the long run.
Liability
This cover is a little more complicated but equally as important for anyone doing courier work. Dealing with the public is part of a delivery worker’s job; however this means you’re at a higher risk if anything happens to a member of the public or their property in the course of your work.
Ultimately, there are two options: public and employers’ liability. Which one you invest in will depend on the size of your company. While public liability cover is necessary for all delivery businesses, according to the law, larger companies who employ a team of drivers will need employers’ liability cover as well.
Goods in Transit
While this might not be as vital as the previously discussed covers, anyone delivering valuable items would be very wise to invest in this useful protection. With the rise of online shopping, delivery services have never been so busy, and the demand for safe and secure transport of expensive goods is high.
Offering a delivery service can often be unpredictable and, in some instances, unforeseen circumstances can be out of your control. By investing in this protection you (and your valuable cargo) won’t be left vulnerable. A proper policy covers your reputation as well as your company, meaning you can provide top quality service and maintain loyal customers with peace of mind.
Don’t Forget Your Fleet
Whether you’re a small business owner or run a large fleet of vehicles, fleet cover is a must for companies with multiple drivers. Bikes, cars, vans or whatever your mode of transport, it’s very important to get cover. As well as giving you peace of mind, this protection allows you to combine vehicle cover, making administration much simpler and potentially saving you some hard-earned cash.
Although the insurance required for courier work might seem complicated and costly, it is essential. Protecting your company, your drivers and your reputation will be one of your best investments ever.
Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for same day courier work in the express freight exchange industry. Numerous transport exchange businesses are networked together on their website, trading jobs and capacity through what is now the fastest growing Freight Exchange in the UK.
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