Written by Michael Foote, Insurance Expert
Why Parcel Loss Is a Real Risk
Multi-drop driving means constant loading, unloading and parking in busy areas. Even with the best precautions, parcels can be lost, stolen or damaged. For self-employed drivers, this isn’t just stressful, it can also mean being held financially responsible.
Who Is Responsible for Lost Parcels?
When you accept a delivery, the goods are in your care until they reach the customer. If something goes wrong in that time, the courier company or platform may hold you accountable. Without the right cover, you may have to pay for replacements yourself.
How Insurance Helps
This is where goods in transit insurance comes in. It protects the parcels you’re carrying against loss, theft or damage while they’re in your van. Without it, your hire and reward policy will only cover the vehicle and your liability on the road, not the items inside.
Real-Life Scenarios
- Your van is broken into while parked on a delivery round
- A parcel goes missing after you’ve signed for a full load
- Goods are damaged when you have to brake suddenly
In each case, goods in transit insurance would be the cover that pays out.
Steps to Take If Something Happens
- Report the loss or theft to your courier company immediately
- Contact the police if the goods were stolen
- Inform your insurer and start a claim if you have goods in transit cover
- Provide as much detail as possible, including times, locations and delivery logs
Protecting Yourself Against Future Losses
Alongside insurance, couriers can reduce risk by:
- Locking vans whenever they’re unattended
- Parking in well-lit or secure areas
- Using tracking devices or security systems
- Keeping high-value items towards the front of the route to minimise time in transit
Related Reading
If you’re unsure how goods in transit fits into courier cover, you may find our guide on how goods in transit protects self-employed couriers useful.
Final Thoughts
Losing a parcel while on the job can be stressful and expensive. With goods in transit insurance in place, you know you’re protected against theft, damage or loss. To see how it fits with hire and reward cover, visit our courier insurance comparison page.