Running a haulage business in the UK is challenging enough without dealing with the wrong truck insurance. Rising fuel costs, stricter road safety laws and supply chain pressures mean your vehicles need reliable protection. Yet many operators unknowingly take out policies that leave gaps in cover. These gaps can lead to expensive claims and dangerous business interruptions.

This guide highlights the five most common mistakes haulage companies make when arranging truck insurance. Understanding these pitfalls will help you secure better protection for your fleet and keep your business running smoothly.

1. Relying on Standard Commercial Vehicle Cover

One of the biggest errors is assuming a regular commercial vehicle policy will protect your trucks. Many standard policies focus on vans and smaller business vehicles. Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and long-distance haulage fleets have very different risks.

Specialist truck insurance is designed for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes and for operations that include long-distance deliveries, hazardous goods or high-value cargo. Using the wrong policy can result in denied claims if the insurer finds your vehicles are not covered for the work you do.

Tip: Always confirm that your policy specifically covers HGVs and your type of haulage, whether it involves chilled goods, fragile loads or cross-border deliveries.

2. Ignoring Goods in Transit Cover

A truck policy that only covers the vehicle itself leaves a major gap. Your lorries may transport goods worth thousands of pounds. If cargo is lost, stolen or damaged, you could face huge financial losses and angry customers.

Goods in transit insurance protects the value of the cargo while it is being transported. Many freight clients also expect proof of this cover before they agree to work with a haulier. Without it, you risk losing contracts and paying out of pocket for claims.

Tip: Match your goods in transit limit to the maximum value of the loads you carry. Do not underestimate the worth of the cargo.

3. Failing to Cover the Entire Fleet

Some operators insure trucks individually instead of arranging fleet truck insurance. While this may seem simple for small businesses, it can quickly become expensive and confusing as you add more vehicles.

A truck fleet insurance policy covers all vehicles under one plan. This approach reduces paperwork, can lower your premiums and provides consistent cover across the entire fleet. It is especially useful if you regularly buy and sell vehicles.

Tip: Consider fleet insurance if you run two or more trucks. It saves time, money and reduces the risk of missed renewals.

4. Overlooking Employer’s Liability and Driver Protection

A haulage business depends on its drivers. Accidents, injuries and legal claims can disrupt operations and lead to heavy compensation costs. Many owners forget that UK law requires employers’ liability insurance if you employ staff.

Driver protection is equally important. This can include personal accident cover and legal expenses cover if your drivers face prosecution after an incident. Without these, one accident could lead to financial strain and staff shortages.

Tip: Always include employers’ liability and driver legal protection when building your truck insurance package.

5. Not Reviewing Your Policy Regularly

Your haulage business changes over time. You may add new trucks, take on bigger contracts or change delivery routes. Yet many operators renew the same policy year after year without checking if it still fits their needs.

Failing to review cover can lead to underinsurance or paying for unnecessary extras. For example, you might need higher cargo limits, European cover or breakdown protection for new routes.

Tip: Review your truck insurance at least once a year or whenever you change your fleet or type of work. A specialist broker can help compare the market and adjust cover.

How to Secure the Right Truck Insurance

Avoiding these mistakes can save thousands of pounds and protect your business from serious disruption. The best approach is to work with a broker who understands truck fleet insurance and haulage risks. They can help you:

• Identify the right level of vehicle, goods in transit and liability cover

• Combine policies to reduce costs and paperwork

• Add optional extras like European breakdown assistance or legal expenses

• Compare quotes from multiple specialist insurers

Protect Your Haulage Business with the Right Truck Insurance

Your trucks are the backbone of your haulage business. Choosing the wrong insurance can put your vehicles, drivers and contracts at risk. By avoiding these five mistakes and seeking expert advice, you can secure reliable truck insurance that keeps your business moving and protects your bottom line. Get your truck insurance quote through us today.