Who needs motor trade insurance?
Anyone whose work involves vehicles they don't own — buying, selling, repairing, valeting or moving them — needs motor trade insurance rather than a standard car policy.
Trades that typically need cover
Motor trade insurance is built for people who handle customers' vehicles as part of their living. A standard private car policy won't cover you to drive or work on vehicles you don't own, so the trade is treated separately.
You'll usually need it if you're a:
- Car dealer, trader or part-time buyer/seller
- Mechanic, garage or MOT station
- Mobile mechanic or car valeter
- Body shop, tyre fitter or vehicle electrician
- Recovery operator or vehicle transporter
Even occasional traders flipping a few cars a year often need it. Whether you work full-time, part-time or from home, you can compare quotes from regulated UK brokers to find the right level of cover.
Compare motor trade insurance quotes
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Get my quote →Related questions
Do I need motor trade insurance to flip a couple of cars a year?
If you buy and sell vehicles with the intent of making a profit, even occasionally, you're trading and a private policy won't cover it. A part-time motor trade policy is the right fit.
Can I use my own car insurance for work vehicles?
No. A private car policy only covers your own named vehicle for social and commuting use, not vehicles you handle for trade.
Does a hobby restorer need motor trade insurance?
If you're not buying or selling for profit and only work on your own vehicles, you likely don't — but if you take on others' cars for payment, you do.