If your company is dependent on several vehicles to run smoothly, fleet insurance can make life easier for you — and be kind to your wallet. Rather than dealing with multiple policies, fleet insurance lets you insure all your vehicles on one policy.
But what is fleet insurance, and how does it work?
What Is Fleet Insurance?
Fleet insurance is a form of policy that insures two or more company cars under one agreement. (We begin at Howden with as few as two cars!)
The major benefit? Convenience. Single policy. Single renewal date. Single premium. It’s easier, quicker, and often cheaper to manage your business’s vehicle insurance.
Fleet policies can be registered under your company name or in the name of a company director. Coverage is tailored based on:
- Fleet size
- Vehicle types
- Number of drivers
- Your preferred level of cover
How Does Fleet Insurance Work?
Fleet insurance works much like your standard car insurance — but on a larger scale. You’ll pay a premium to keep your policy active, and choose your excess (the amount you’ll contribute in the event of a claim).
Steps to Get Started:
Step 1: Decide Which Vehicles to Cover
Fleet insurance can cover a range of vehicles used for business, such as:
- Company cars and vans
- Delivery and mobility vehicles
- Construction and agricultural machinery
Remember: the more cars and the more specialized they are, the more your premium will probably cost.
Step 2: Select Your Level of Cover
- Comprehensive – Insures everything, including your own cars and drivers, regardless of who’s to blame.
- Third-Party Only – Covers other cars or property damage.
- Third-Party, Fire & Theft – Includes cover for fire damage and theft of your vehicles.
Step 3: Choose How Many Drivers to Insure
You can choose to:
- Cover any authorized driver in your business
- Or cover individual drivers to individual vehicles
Note: Younger or higher-risk drivers will cost more.
Step 4: Work With a Reliable Provider
Select a fleet insurance company that recognizes the specific requirements of your business. An experienced staff will assist in shaping your coverage, streamline claims, and ensure you are adequately covered.
What to Consider Before You Buy
1. Evaluate Your Risk
Risk considerations are:
- Driver experience
- Vehicle usage frequency
- Whether you are carrying hazardous materials
2. Know Your Fleet
Keep a comprehensive list of:
- Types of vehicles
- Their application (construction, delivery, passenger transport, etc.)
Common fleet types include:
- Own Goods Fleets – Transporting your own equipment or supplies
- Logistics/Courier Fleets – Delivering goods for customers
- Taxi, Bus or Coach Fleets – Passenger transport operators
- Vehicle Hire Fleets – Vehicles on hire to customers
- Bluelight Fleets – Emergency service cars
3. Select the Correct Payment Plan
Choose from:
- Fixed annual premiums – Pay an annual lump sum
- Mileage-based premiums – Pay according to car usage
Certain insurers also provide driver behaviour rewards and maintenance incentives for keeping your fleet in top condition.
There’s no single answer to cost. Prices differ depending on:
- Number and type of vehicles
- Driver age and history
- Level of cover
- Type of business and location
Your best bet? Talk to a fleet insurance expert for a personalized quote.
How to Make a Fleet Insurance Claim
Hopefully, you won’t have to — but if you do, this is how:
- Phone or contact your provider directly online
- At Howden, utilize our SMARTClaims Commercial Motor Claims portal for speedy, stress-free submission
Tip: Name a fleet manager to deal with claims, as they’ll have the most accurate, latest information on your drivers and vehicles.
Advantages of Fleet Insurance
- Single policy to cover all your vehicles
- Simplified admin and fewer renewal dates
- Tailored cover for your business
- Potential cost savings
- Professional claims help at your fingertips
Fleet Insurance FAQs
Can anyone drive on fleet insurance?
Yes — if your policy includes “any authorised driver.” Alternatively, you can opt to allocate named drivers to named vehicles.
What is family fleet insurance?
Family fleet insurance protects two or more personal cars in one household. It provides all the features of regular car insurance with the benefit of having one policy for several cars.
How many cars do I need for fleet insurance?
At least two cars are usually needed by most insurers, though some may request five or more. Coverage can be extended to big fleets made up of hundreds of vehicles.
Get a Quote from Howden Today
Fleet insurance doesn’t need to be complex. Contact Howden and discuss your needs with a member of our expert business vehicle insurance team. We will assist you in getting the best solution for your company — irrespective of the size of your fleet.