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If you work as a bicycle courier your bike is more than just a mode of transport – it’s your livelihood. That’s why it could be a very wise idea to take into a commercial bicycle insurance policy, which could help cover the cost of repairing or replacing your bicycle in the event of an accident or theft.

Without an appropriate policy in place, you could end up with hefty repair bills if your courier bike is ever damaged or stolen by a thief.

What is commercial bicycle insurance?

It’s a specific type of insurance policy that can insure you and your bicycle against the specific risks you face on the road when you’re working as a commercial courier. Policies take into account the fact that there’s a greater risk of an accident occurring because you’re delivering items to a strict timetable, navigating through heavily built-up urban areas and covering more miles than someone cycling for pleasure.

Won’t my standard bicycle insurance cover me?

No, if you’re using your bicycle to deliver letters, parcels or takeaway food, then those journeys are classed as commercial which means you’ll need commercial bicycle insurance instead of regular, run-of-the-mill bicycle insurance. A policy that doesn’t cover your couriering activities is invalid which means if you do have an accident, your insurer can refuse to pay out.

Without the right insurance, you could end up paying for bike repairs yourself. But in extreme cases, you could find yourself responsible for paying compensation claims or court costs if you cause injury or damage to someone else or their property.

What does a delivery bike insurance policy actually cover me against?

Policies vary depending on the insurer’s own terms and conditions so it’s crucial to be aware of what is and isn’t covered. At the most basic level, your delivery bike insurance should cover your bicycle against the risk of theft and accidental damage, although some of the better policies may also include extra policy features like legal cover, public liability cover or personal injury cover.

Are there any exclusions I should be aware of when I’m comparing delivery bike insurance?

One of the most common exclusions is that insurable events that arise due to some sort of negligence on the policyholder’s part will be excluded from coverage.

For example, if a delivery bike is stolen because the bicycle owner failed to adequately secure the bike with an insurer-approved bicycle chain and lock, then that theft is unlikely to be covered.

Similarly, if a bicycle courier is involved in a road accident that damages their bike, but the accident occurred because the bike rider rode through a red light, then the damage to their delivery bike likely won’t be covered by their delivery bike insurance.

How much does courier bike insurance cost?

Prices will depend on the policy you choose and whether or not you decide to add on any extra features. Insurers are also likely to consider your own unique circumstances including:

• The type of bicycle you use for your deliveries – electric bikes or other high-end bicycles may cost more to insure as they’re sometimes more attractive to thieves, and will also cost more to replace.
• The types of things you’re delivering – if you’re delivering high value items then this may well be reflected in your premium.
• Where you store your delivery bike at night – keeping it safe indoors or in a locked garage can help lower your insurance as it’s less likely to be stolen.
• Where you live – If you live in an area with a higher crime rate then this could result in higher courier bike insurance premiums.