What types of HGV can be insured?

HGV insurance is available for many body types, including tippers, flatbeds, box vans, container lorries and refrigerated vehicles. Tell the insurer exactly what type of vehicle you have and what it carries.

Will my policy restrict what I use my HGV for?

Your policy will be based on the use you declare. Most HGVs are used for haulage or deliveries, but if you use yours differently, make sure the policy reflects that.

I'm new to driving HGVs. Can I be insured?

New drivers and new businesses can often find cover, though insurers will look closely at licence history and experience, and premiums may be higher at first.

Do I need an operator's licence?

Generally, if your business uses vehicles over 3.5 tonnes to carry goods, you need a goods vehicle operator's licence. There are some exemptions, so check the rules on GOV.UK.

Insurance basics

HGV insurance

A plain guide to HGV insurance: who needs it, what insurers ask, the three levels of cover and when you need a goods vehicle operator's licence.

If you drive a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) for a living, you'll know it's a legal requirement to have it insured, and you'll want a policy that protects both you and other road users.

HGV insurance can cover lorries and trucks of many sizes and types. When you look for a policy, you'll be asked for the same contact and personal details as for any other vehicle, plus questions about the nature of your business, what you carry and the weight of the vehicle.

What are the different levels of cover?

HGV policies come in the same three levels as other vehicle insurance.

Fully comprehensive

This is the highest level of cover. It includes everything in third party, fire and theft, and also covers damage to your own HGV, even if an accident was your fault.

Third party, fire and theft

This covers you if you're responsible for injury to other people or damage to their property. It also covers your HGV if it's stolen or damaged by fire. It won't pay for repairs to your own vehicle if you cause an accident.

Third party only

This is the most basic level of cover and the minimum required by law. It pays for injury to others and damage you cause to other vehicles and property, but there is no cover for your own HGV.

Other cover to think about

Depending on your work, you may also want to look at goods in transit cover for the loads you carry, and public or employers' liability if you run a haulage business. A policy covering several vehicles together may suit operators with more than one truck.

Operator's licence

If your business uses goods vehicles above 3.5 tonnes, you'll generally need a goods vehicle operator's licence. You can read the rules and exemptions on GOV.UK.

Other cover we can help with

Kompare doesn't currently offer quotes for HGV insurance. If you run several vans or cars, see our fleet insurance page, and for lighter vehicles see van insurance and courier insurance. See how we work for more.