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Trailer Insurance

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Policies and deals from industry leading insurance providers, including

Insurance Protector
CateringInsurance.co.uk
Quotax Insurance

Trailer insurance  


Do I need insurance to tow a trailer?

Some insurance companies may include cover for a trailer when you take out standard car insurance, but any cover would typically be limited. For instance, the car might be fully covered, but the trailer will only be covered for third-party risks. Also, the trailer must typically belong to you to be covered by your policy. Trailer insurance that’s included in car insurance will not cover commercial use either. With that in mind, car trailer insurance might be a worthwhile investment if you regularly have to tow a trailer. This could be for recreational or commercial purposes. It offers peace of mind, ensuring that your asset is protected at all times, no matter what you’re using it for. 

Types of trailers covered by trailer insurance 

Trailer insurance policies can cover the following types of trailers. There may be additional equipment that you’d like insured under your policy. An example would be trailer tent insurance which can usually be added at an additional cost. In some cases, you’ll need specialised trailer insurance. For example, you’ll need livestock trailer insurance to transport animals or commercial trailer insurance if you’re using the trailer for commercial purposes.

Box trailers

Flatbed trailers

Utility trailers

Commercial trailers

Boat trailers

Garden trailers

Factors to consider when choosing a trailer insurance policy

Coverage options

There are various levels of trailer insurance in the UK. The options typically fall into these categories: 

  • Basic cover – typically covers accidental damage, third-party damage, fire and theft. 
  • Comprehensive policy – in addition to basic cover it can include replacement hire if your trailer is unusable because of an insured event. It may also include new for old cover for trailers younger than 3 years, cover for factory-fitted accessories, and European use. 
  • Specialised cover – for catering, horse, or race transport trailers. 

You can also choose the duration of your cover to suit your needs. Your options are usually short-term if you occasionally make use of a trailer, or long-term if you’re using your trailer continuously.  

Price and cost considerations

Your trailer insurance cost can vary because many factors are taken into consideration. These include the value of the trailer, the intended use, the owner’s experience, security features, the trailer’s contents and of course, the excess amount. The duration of cover and any add-ons you choose will also impact the cost. If you’re looking for the best trailer insurance quote, you could benefit from comparing a wide range of quotes in order to find the best trailer insurance in the UK for your needs. 

Public liability coverage

Car trailer insurance in the UK typically covers legal liability costs for injury or property damage to third parties. Public liability cover may be included in the towing section of your standard car insurance and not in your trailer insurance. Make sure to read through your policy carefully to understand the limitations of any cover you consider.  

Accidental damage coverage

The details about what qualifies as accidental damage in insurance for a trailer could vary between insurers. It’s always a good idea to compare various quotes to find a policy with terms and conditions that best align with your needs. Comparing quotes increases your odds of finding a favourable deal. 

Theft and damage protection

You’ll typically be paid out the market value of your trailer if it is stolen or damaged beyond repair. 

Additional coverage options

As with any other insurance policy you can choose from several add-ons to ensure you have sufficient cover. This could include breakdown cover, key protection, contents cover, replacement hire cover, European coverage and more. Add-ons typically come at an additional cost but might be worth it for the extra protection they offer. 

How to get cheaper trailer insurance

Increase security measures

Choose a higher excess

Bundle trailer insurance with other policies

Keep a clean claims history

Review and update coverage regularly

Compare trailer insurance policies before you buy

Trailer insurance FAQs

How much is trailer insurance?

The cost of trailer insurance will vary depending on the market value of the trailer, the intended use and the personal details of the owner. The level of coverage and any additional add-ons will affect the price too. Comparing multiple quotes could increase your chances of securing a fair price for your trailer insurance. 

Do you need insurance to tow a trailer in the UK?

Not necessarily. It is not a legal mandate in the UK to insure your trailer. Some car insurance policies may also include third-party liability cover for a trailer as standard. If you want to protect your asset, or if you use a trailer for commercial purposes or to transport animals or larger objects, it’s probably better to have it in place. 

Do trailers need an MOT?

No. Trailers do not need an MOT in the UK. They must be roadworthy if used on public roads though. A trailer must display the same number plate as the vehicle pulling it, and the lights and indicators must be connected and working properly. These are non-negotiable. 

Does car insurance cover you for towing?

Some car insurance policies may offer limited third-party cover when towing a trailer, but this is not guaranteed. Damage to your trailer and contents will almost certainly not be covered unless you take out specific cover. If you’re concerned about risks to your trailer, it could be best to take out a separate policy that’s tailored to those risks. 

Is trailer insurance mandatory?

No. Trailer insurance is not mandatory in the UK. However, there is a strong case for it if you use it for business purposes or even just on a regular basis. Trailer insurance can cover you for accidental damage, fire, theft, third-party liabilities and even contents. It could save you a lot of money in the long run. 

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