Do You Really Need a Different Policy Just for a Few Shifts a Week?

Short answer? Yes. Long answer? Also yes, but with a few important details to think about first.

If you're delivering pizzas a few nights a week or doing the odd shift with a delivery app on weekends, it might seem harmless to stick with your regular car insurance. After all, it's not like you're doing long-haul lorry work, right?

But here's the thing: most standard policies don't cover **business use** - and that includes delivering food, parcels, or anything else for money. Whether you're on the clock 40 hours or just popping out with a few orders after tea, that kind of driving classifies as **'hire and reward'**.

And if something goes wrong whilst you're out delivering and you haven't got the right insurance? Your claim could be rejected entirely. Ouch.

Relaxed motorist feeling secure with updated protection
Mobile-friendly, quote whilst you commute

What Kind of Cover Do Part-Time Delivery Drivers Need?

There are a couple of ways to stay properly insured without selling your soul , or your car , to the insurance gods.

  • Hire and Reward Insurance: This is the golden ticket. It covers you for carrying goods (or food!) in exchange for payment. It's what delivery drivers need, full stop.
  • Top-Up Policies: Already have standard cover? You might be able to get a separate top-up for your delivery hours. These can be flexible and are popular for people doing app-based work like Uber Eats or Deliveroo.
  • Pay-As-You-Go Options: Some policies let you only pay for the hours you're actually working. Great if you're dipping in and out rather than doing regular shifts.

Each option has pros and cons, but the big idea is this: your insurer needs to know how you're using the car. If you're getting paid to drive, it's business - and your cover has to reflect that.

Just Imagine This...

You're out on a Friday night, delivering Chinese takeaways to half the neighbourhood. It's raining. You're hungry. And someone pulls out of a junction without looking ; right into the side of your car.

Now picture calling your insurer, only to hear: "Sorry, this claim isn't covered. You didn't declare you were using the car for deliveries."

That takeaway might've cost someone 22 pounds. Your repair bill? Try 2,000. And that's before the no-claims discount takes a hit. Not exactly the kind of fortune cookie message you want to end the night on.

Why Does It Matter If You're Only Doing It 'Now and Then'?

It's easy to assume you can fly under the radar if you're not doing deliveries full-time. But insurance doesn't work like that. Even just one job done without proper cover could land you in hot water. Think fines. Points. Or worse , losing your licence entirely.

Besides, if you're going to the effort of working evenings and weekends, the last thing you want is to see that hard-earned income go up in smoke because of one oversight. Better to sort the cover and sleep a bit easier.

What Else Should You Look Out For?

Once you start comparing your options, keep a few key things in mind:

  • Excess Amounts: How much would you may need to pay out of pocket if something happened?
  • Mileage Limits: Some policies restrict how much you can drive whilst delivering.
  • Named Driver Rules: Only you might be covered during delivery hours - check if others are allowed behind the wheel too.
  • Vehicle Requirements: Older cars or modified vehicles might need special consideration.

And here's a good one - some policies won't cover you if your delivery gig is with certain apps or companies. Always check the small print. Boring? Maybe. But better than being caught out later.

Alright, So How Do You Get Covered Without Losing Your Mind?

First, figure out what kind of delivery you're doing - food, parcels, local shops, whatever. Then decide whether you're after full-time cover, part-time top-up, or something in between.

Then , and this bit really matters , compare quotes. You'd be surprised how much the numbers vary. Some might be double the price for basically the same thing. Others might not even cover your situation properly.

So before your next shift starts, or before you accept that tempting offer of "just a few hours to help out," get your cover sorted. The right insurance can make all the difference , to your finances, your car, and your stress levels.

Reflections:? Get a Quote and Be Sure You're Covered

Part-time delivery work can be a brilliant side hustle. Flexible, relatively straightforward, and a decent way to earn some extra cash. But only if you're covered properly. One accident without the right insurance could wipe out months of earnings - or worse.

So don't wing it. Don't guess. Take a couple of minutes to compare delivery driver insurance quotes now and protect yourself the smart way. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.