Yes, in most cases, you can transfer a no-claims bonus (NCB) earned on a car policy to a new insurance policy for a van. However, this is not an automatic right and is entirely at the discretion of your insurance provider. The transferability often depends on the type of van and how it will be used. You must inform your new insurer that you have an NCB to transfer, and they will typically require proof, usually a letter from your previous insurer.
The key factor is the van's classification. A small, personal-use van (often called a "car-derived van") is most likely to be accepted. If the van is larger, used for commercial purposes, or has a significantly higher weight and value, the insurer may not accept the car NCB or may apply it differently, potentially resulting in a higher base premium.
| Factor | Car Policy | Van Policy (Commercial) | Impact on NCB Transfer |
|---|
| Primary Use | Personal, Social, Commuting | Business, Carrying Goods | Insurer may see van as higher risk. |
| Vehicle Weight | Lower (e.g., 1.5 tons) | Higher (e.g., 2.0+ tons) | Heavier vehicles can cause more damage in accidents. |
| Modifications | Rare for standard models | Common (racking, signage) | Modifications can increase premium costs. |
| Annual Mileage | Typically lower | Often significantly higher | Higher mileage increases exposure to risk. |
| Driver Risk Profile | Assessed on personal use | Assessed on business use (e.g., city driving) | Commercial driving is statistically riskier. |
The process is straightforward: when getting a quote for the van, declare your NCB and the number of claim-free years. The insurer will then calculate your discount. It's crucial to be honest about the van's use, as misrepresenting it could invalidate your policy. The best practice is to speak directly with insurance providers to confirm their specific policy on NCB transfers before making a decision.
