Most people don’t need a van every day, but when you do, it can make a massive difference. Whether you’re a student shifting between term-time accommodation and home or tackling a long-overdue dump run, having access to a van can make the task much Life Easier.
If you occasionally need to drive a van, temporary insurance is a practical short-term solution, which we’ll explore in this article.
Why Owning a Van Isn’t Always the Best Option
Vans come with significant ongoing costs, including MOT, tax, insurance, servicing, and parking. If you only need a van once every few months, that financial commitment rarely makes sense. Even hiring a van long-term can be an overinvestment if you’re only doing a one-off job.
Instead, you’re more likely to save money by hiring a van for a few hours or days, depending on the task. You get the benefit of a spacious vehicle without the long-term financial and practical burdens.
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The Convenience of Temporary Van Insurance
Hiring a van is typically a straightforward process, with most rental agencies offering flexible booking options ranging from a few hours to a few days. However, the insurance included with a van rental can come with a high excess or limited coverage. If you’re borrowing one from a friend, you’ll need to arrange your own insurance for Life Easier.
With temporary van insurance, you can get from as little as one hour, which is ideal for short-notice moving days or weekend DIY projects. It’s designed with flexibility in mind for those who prefer not to include it in their annual policy.
Who Can Use It—and for What?
Temporary van insurance provides legal cover for the driver without affecting the van owner’s existing policy. When you borrow a friend’s van for a few hours to collect a large piece of flat-pack furniture, any incident that occurs while you’re driving won’t impact their no-claims bonus. It’s a separate, self-contained cover for your short-term needs for Life Easier.
Temporary insurance usually covers standard UK driving license holders aged 21 and over, although some providers require you to be 25 or older. There are also limits on the weight and type of vehicle you can drive, so be sure to check the requirements before applying.
Safety and Compliance When Using a Van You Don’t Own
The first thing to do when borrowing a van is to check that it’s roadworthy, taxed and has a valid MOT. You can check the MOT status on the government’s website. Beyond the legal obligations, there are physical aspects to consider, including knowing your payload limit for Life Easier. Overloading can make driving unsafe and result in costly fines.
Before setting off, plan your route. Unlike with your car, you’ll have to consider low-clearance bridges, which are especially important in rural or older urban areas. Also, remember to fill the tank up before returning the van to avoid unexpected charges.
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