If you use your vehicle for work—whether delivering parcels or transporting heavy goods—it’s important to have the right insurance. Many UK drivers confuse van insurance with HGV insurance, but the two are not the same.
Both offer protection for commercial vehicles, but they cover very different types of vehicles, risks, and legal requirements. Let’s break down the key differences so you can choose the right cover for your business.
What Is Van Insurance For?
Van insurance is for light commercial vehicles that weigh up to 3.5 tonnes (also known as 3,500kg). This includes popular models like:
- Ford Transit
- Vauxhall Vivaro
- Mercedes-Benz Vito
- Citroën Dispatch
If you use your van for delivery, building work, plumbing, or courier services, van insurance gives you the cover you need. It protects against accidents, theft, and third-party claims, just like car insurance, but is designed for business use.
Optional extras can include:
- Tool cover
- Goods-in-transit cover
- Courtesy van hire
- Breakdown cover
You can usually drive these vans with a standard Category B driving licence.
What Is HGV Insurance For?
HGV insurance is for heavy goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes. These are larger, often long-distance vehicles such as:
- Rigid lorries
- Articulated lorries (artics)
- Tankers
- Flatbeds
- Tippers
Driving an HGV legally requires a special licence—either Category C1, C, or C+E, depending on the vehicle type and size.
HGV insurance is built to cover the higher risks that come with operating these vehicles. They’re bigger, cost more to repair, and carry valuable or heavy cargo. Policies, depending on the insurer, can include:
- Public liability cover
- Employer’s liability (if you hire other drivers)
- Cover for European travel
- Goods-in-transit protection
Because HGVs tend to travel further and carry more, the insurance is usually more expensive—than standard van cover.
The Key Differences
1. Vehicle Weight and Type – The biggest difference is the vehicle size. Vans are up to 3.5 tonnes. Anything above that weight needs HGV cover. It’s a legal line, and insurance providers treat them separately.
2. Driving Licence – You can drive most vans with a regular UK car licence. For HGVs, you need the correct LGV licence, such as Category C or C+E. Insurers will check this when offering quotes.
3. Business Use and Risk – Vans are often used for local jobs. HGVs usually carry heavier loads over longer distances—sometimes across borders. These risks are reflected in HGV insurance policies, which are more specialised and can include extra cover options, depending on the insurance provider.
4. Policy Extras – Van policies might include tool covers or replacement vans. HGV policies focus more on cargo protection, cross-border driving, and liability for higher-value loads.
What Happens If You Get It Wrong?
Using the wrong type of insurance—for example, trying to cover a 7.5-tonne truck under a van policy—can lead to denied claims, fines, or even having your licence suspended. It’s not worth the risk.
If your business is growing and you’re moving into heavier vehicles, always check that your insurance matches your new needs.
Who Offers the Right Cover?
Insurance companies understand the difference between vans and HGVs. They can help you find the right HGV insurance policy for your vehicle, route, and type of cargo—while making sure you’re legally covered at every step.
Whether you run one lorry or a full haulage fleet, working with a broker who knows your industry makes everything simpler.
Choosing between van insurance and HGV insurance isn’t just about the size of the vehicle—it’s about what you use it for, what it carries, and how far it travels.
If you’re moving into larger vehicles, don’t rely on guesswork. Make sure your insurance fits your work. With the right policy in place, you’ll protect your business, your drivers, and your cargo—no matter how heavy the load.