When summer finally rolls around in the UK, there’s nothing quite like hearing the melody from an ice cream van rolling down the street. But behind those soft-serve swirls and 99 flakes is a mobile business that needs proper protection and that’s where ice cream van insurance comes in.
If you’re running (or thinking about starting) an ice cream van business, it’s important to understand that your needs are very different from someone using a van for deliveries or commuting. Standard van insurance just won’t cut it and here’s why.
It’s More Than Just a Van – It’s Your Business on Wheels
A regular van might be used for transporting goods or tools, but an ice cream van is a business. You’re serving food, handling cash, operating equipment, and interacting with the public, often all at once. So, your insurance needs to reflect that.
Specialist ice cream van insurance combines vehicle cover, with elements of business protection, such as public liability, stock insurance, and cover for your equipment.
Public Liability Cover is a Must
When you’re serving from the side of the van, whether it’s in a park, outside a school, or at a local event, there’s always a risk of accidents involving members of the public. Someone could trip over a cable or even burn themselves on equipment.
This is where public liability insurance comes in. It’s not included in standard van policies, but it’s essential for any business dealing with the public. If a customer makes a claim against you, liability insurance can cover legal costs and compensation.
Protection for Your Stock and Equipment
Your van isn’t just a vehicle, it’s packed with valuable equipment like freezers, generators, and ice cream machines. Plus, there’s your stock to think about: cones, lollies, drinks, and toppings.
A specialist policy can include:
- Equipment cover – for built-in and portable machinery
- Stock insurance – for loss due to breakdown, theft or spoilage
- Generator and freezer cover – crucial if your van relies on cold storage
None of these would be covered under a standard commercial van policy.
Cover While You’re Stationery and Trading
Traditional van insurance only really covers you while you’re on the move. But most of your working day might be spent parked up and trading, which comes with its own set of risks.
Ice cream van insurance ensures you’re protected whether you’re driving or parked up and serving. This includes cover for incidents like fire, theft, or customer injury while stationery.
Product Liability Insurance – Food Safety Matters
If someone were to get ill from something you served, you could face a claim even if you’ve followed all the rules. That’s where product liability insurance steps in. It protects you against claims resulting from contaminated or unsafe food and drink.
Again, this is not part of standard van insurance, but it’s often included in comprehensive ice cream van policies.
Seasonal and Part-Time Policies Available
Many ice cream vendors operate seasonally especially in the UK, where the weather can be unpredictable. Some insurers offer seasonal insurance or part-time cover, so you’re not paying full whack for months you’re not trading.
It’s always worth asking about flexible options, especially if you only operate between spring and early autumn.
If You Have Staff, You’ll Need Employer’s Liability Cover
If you employ anyone to help you serve or run the van, even part-time or casually, you’re legally required to have employer’s liability insurance in the UK. This covers injury or illness claims made by your staff.
Some ice cream van insurance packages include this, but it’s worth double-checking what’s covered.
Extras to Look Out For
Depending on your setup, you might also want cover for:
- Chimes/music system
- Takings (cash stored in the van)
- Breakdown cover – especially if your van has older equipment or refrigeration units
- European use – if you attend festivals or events abroad
In Summary
Ice cream van insurance isn’t just a variation of standard van cover, it’s tailored protection for a unique kind of business. It’s there to safeguard your equipment, stock, income, and, most importantly, your customers.
Before you hit the road, make sure you’ve got the right policy in place. Not only will it give you peace of mind, but it’ll also help keep your business (and your freezer) running smoothly.
If you’d like to find out more about how Catering Insurance can help to keep your ice cream van secure, get in touch with us today.