How much goods in transit cover do I need?

Match the limit to the most valuable load you carry at one time, and check any minimum your client or platform sets.

Does goods in transit cover the goods at my home or depot?

Usually only while they are in transit. Goods stored at home or in a depot often need separate cover.

Are all goods covered?

No. Cash, jewellery, livestock and hazardous items are commonly excluded, so check the policy wording before accepting such loads.

Courier

What is goods in transit cover for couriers?

Goods in transit cover protects the parcels couriers carry against loss, theft and damage. Here is what it covers, its limits and common exclusions.

Goods in transit cover protects the parcels and cargo you carry against loss, theft or damage while they are in your vehicle. It pays towards replacing or repairing the goods, not your van itself, which is covered by your motor policy.

What it covers and why it matters

While hire and reward covers you to drive for payment, goods in transit protects the items you are actually delivering. If a parcel is stolen from your van, damaged in an accident or lost in a fire, this cover can meet the cost.

Loss or theft of goods while loaded or in transit.
Accidental damage to parcels during a journey.
Loss following a fire or a road traffic accident.

Without it, you could be asked to pay for lost or damaged goods yourself, and some clients will not give you work unless you can show the cover is in place.

Limits and conditions

Policies carry a cover limit per load, so check the figure matches the value you typically carry. Many clients and platforms set a minimum level you must hold.

You may also want to check:

Unattended vehicle conditions: many policies need the van to be locked, with windows closed and any alarm set, and some limit cover overnight.
Excluded goods: some policies exclude high-risk items, so read the terms.
Loading and unloading: some policies cover goods while they are being loaded, others only once they are in the vehicle.
The excess you would pay on each claim.

Getting courier insurance quotes

With Kompare you fill in a short form about your vehicle and your work. A specialist FCA-authorised broker from our panel then contacts you about courier insurance quotes, including a goods in transit limit to suit what you carry. Read how we work, or start on our courier insurance page.