Those who own or work for haulage companies know (often firsthand) how important it is to not only have insurance, but also to have the right kind. When you’re on the road as much as hauliers are, anything can happen – from a flat tyre to a flattened vehicle, there are always risks associated with this career choice, no matter how diligent a driver you may be.
Yet, getting yourself covered can seem like an impossible task at times, and obstacles can appear around any corner. Many insurers are either under or over informed when it comes to haulage companies and the work they do. Those who have even the slightest inkling tend to shy away from taking you on board as a client (after all, you are considered high risk), or expect you to pay an arm and a leg for their services. Some who are ignorant to the industry’s needs aren’t even able to give you coverage that’s right for you.
Here are some things you can do to help you find your perfect insurance policy match.
Research
This may seem like an obvious one, but it’s also one that many don’t properly take into consideration. With the Internet at your fingertips, it’s easier than ever to find just about anything you need. Make sure you’re using the right key words in your searches.
For example, simply looking for ‘insurance policies’ can get you anything from travel to pets – not exactly what you’re searching for. Terms such as ‘haulier’, ‘vehicle’, or ‘business’ attached to insurance’ (if you’re an owner) will give you much more useful results and save you lots of time sorting through options that serve you no purpose.
Find the Right Fit
This next tip relates directly to the preceding one. Make sure the company you’re purchasing a policy from has experience catering to haulage companies and knows about the industry – or, at the very least, knows about the kinds of policy you need. In short, you should be sure the insurer you choose from is on the same page as you – they’re aware of what you want and need, and (preferably) have policies specific to what you’re in the market for.
This may take a bit more time and research, but it could potentially save you money in the long run – and you’ll definitely have more peace of mind. After all, those with a thorough knowledge of haulage companies and what they need are more likely to offer policies that actually cover you, answer questions more accurately, and have representatives who can take a genuine interest in your business.
Investing in a good policy can be almost as scary as the accident you’re trying to protect yourself from. But these tips will make ensuring your safety seem less daunting – because an insured haulier is a happy (and safe) one.
Norman Dulwich is a Correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the leading online trade network for the road transport industry. Connecting professionals across the UK and Europe through their website, Haulage Exchange provides services for matching haulage companies or self-employed drivers with jobs in road transport and haulage work. Over 5,400 member companies are networked together through the Exchange to fill empty capacity, get new clients and form long-lasting business relationships.
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