
Pay as you go food delivery insurance is a flexible and affordable way to protect yourself against the unexpected costs of food delivery accidents. This type of insurance allows you to pay for coverage only when you need it, making it perfect for riders who only occasionally use food delivery services.
The cost of pay as you go food delivery insurance can vary depending on the provider and the level of coverage you choose. In the UK, some providers offer coverage starting from as little as £1.50 per month.
You can purchase pay as you go food delivery insurance online or through a mobile app, making it easy to get the coverage you need when you need it.
What Is Payg?
Pay as you go delivery insurance is a form of hire and reward insurance. It provides the necessary legal cover for working as a delivery driver.
The PAYG Delivery Insurance is only activated when you're working and making deliveries. This makes it a good fit for those who work on a part-time or seasonal basis.
The amount you pay for cover is based on usage, so the more you use, the more you pay, and vice versa. This is a relatively new concept in the UK insurance marketplace.
PAYG was first introduced in 2013 under the Cuvva brand. It allows customers to buy pay-as-you-go insurance via an app.
The pay as you use approach provides temporary insurance that covers you for providing a delivery service. This is a popular model in all sectors of the UK insurance market.
PAYG courier insurance is perfect for fast food delivery drivers who operate for the local takeaway or via Deliveroo.
Benefits
Pay as you go food delivery insurance in the UK is a game-changer for part-time drivers.
There are several benefits to PAYG food delivery insurance, including the flexibility to only pay for coverage while on the job.
PAYG insurance is the perfect option for a part-time food delivery driver who only wants courier insurance while on the job.
This type of insurance allows you to pay for coverage only when you're actively working, which can be a huge cost-saver.
The benefits of PAYG delivery insurance include flexibility, cost savings, and only paying for what you need.
Check this out: How Much Is Insurance for a Transportation Company
Cost and Pricing

Pay as you go food delivery insurance in the UK can be a cost-effective option for those who don't want to commit to an annual policy. The rates for pay as you go insurance vary depending on the vehicle type.
For scooter delivery drivers, the cost per hour is approximately 70p, while for car delivery drivers, it's around 80p per hour. This can add up quickly, but it's a more flexible option than an annual policy.
You can expect to pay between £0.50 and £3.00 per hour for standard cars, depending on the engine size and car value. This is a significant range, so it's essential to check the rates with your provider.
The cost for small vans is £1.00 to £2.00 per hour, while large vans are £2.00 to £3.00 per hour. These rates can help you estimate your costs for pay as you go insurance.
Here's a breakdown of the estimated costs for pay as you go food delivery insurance in the UK:
These rates can change between providers, so it's always a good idea to check with your insurance company for the most up-to-date information.
What's Covered
Pay as you go food delivery insurance in the UK typically covers third-party liability, which means you're protected if you accidentally damage someone or their property while making deliveries. This includes medical bills and lost wages if you're injured.
You're also covered for own vehicle damage, so if your scooter, motorbike, or car gets damaged while you're out delivering, you can get it repaired or replaced. This is especially important if you're using a vehicle that's not your own.
Here's a breakdown of the average insurance cost per hour for different types of vehicles:
Goods in transit are also protected, which means you'll be compensated if any of the food you're delivering gets damaged or spoiled. This includes the cost of replacing the items.
How It Works
To get started with PAYG food delivery insurance, you must first create a central insurance management account with an insurance agent that offers PAYG cover, which can be done with a deposit as low as £25.

You'll need a firm reference number to activate your coverage, which you can do when picking up a package to be delivered.
A black box mounted to your vehicle tracks your activity and helps activate the coverage.
Once you're done making the delivery, you simply deactivate the coverage.
If you provide a delivery service by bike or scooter, you can also apply for PAYG bike insurance.
What Is Covered
So, what's covered by pay-as-you-go delivery insurance? Let's break it down. Third-party liability is typically covered, which means you're protected if you cause damage to someone or their property while out on deliveries.
You'll also have coverage for own vehicle damage, which includes repairs or replacement if your vehicle is damaged while doing deliveries. This is a must-have for any delivery driver. Personal injury is also covered, which includes medical bills and lost wages if you're injured in an accident while out on deliveries.

Goods in transit are protected, which means if you're transporting food and it gets lost or damaged, the insurance will pay to replace it. This gives you peace of mind while you're on the job. Legal expenses are also covered, which means you won't have to worry about legal costs if you're involved in a dispute due to your delivery work.
Here's a quick rundown of the average insurance cost per hour for different types of vehicles:
Some pay-as-you-go insurance policies may also cover public liability insurance and products liability insurance. These types of insurance cover you financially if you injure someone or damage their property, and if the food you're transporting causes harm to a customer.
Factors Affecting Cost
If you're considering pay as you go food delivery insurance in the UK, it's essential to understand the factors that affect the cost. Your driver's age and driving experience will play a significant role in determining the premium.
The type of vehicle you drive is another crucial factor, with scooters costing around £0.50-£0.60 per hour, motorbikes £0.70-£0.80, and standard cars £0.85-£3.00, depending on engine size and car value.
The frequency of deliveries and hours of delivery also impact the cost. If you're making frequent deliveries, you can expect to pay more. The location where deliveries are made can also increase the premium, especially in high-crime or congested areas.
The level of cover and policy add-ons will also affect the cost. You may need to pay extra for features like voluntary excess or per hour or per trip PAYG insurance.
Comparison and Selection
Comparing pay as you go food delivery insurance options can be a challenge, especially if you're new to the gig economy.
You can compare PAYG insurance policies from leading insurers, including those that cater to delivery drivers like you.
It's essential to research and find a policy that suits your unique requirements, rather than settling for a generic policy that may not provide adequate coverage.

MultiQuoteTime and Quotezone have partnered to provide a streamlined online quote process, making it easier for you to compare food delivery insurance from trusted UK insurers.
If you're an Uber, Just Eat, or Deliveroo driver, you can compare PAYG Food Delivery Insurance that covers you for these platforms.
You can save money by filling out just one short form, which can result in significant cost savings.
Multiple specialist providers are available to compare, ensuring you get the best deal for your needs.
Here's a rough idea of the cost difference between pay-as-you-go and annual policies:
Keep in mind that these are approximate costs, and your actual expenses may vary depending on your specific situation.
Limiting Risk
Late-night deliveries can increase your premiums, so try to avoid them if possible. This is because they may increase the risk of accidents or theft.
Delivering in high-crime areas can also lead to higher premiums, so it's best to limit these types of deliveries as well. This can help you save money on your insurance costs.
Limiting your deliveries can help reduce mileage and potential risk, which can lower your insurance costs.
Insurance Availability
Most suppliers will provide cover for delivery drivers under the age of 25, and in some cases, even those under 21, but they may stipulate extra conditions.
Installing a black box is one example of an extra condition that may be required for younger drivers to get insurance coverage.
You can get pay as you go insurance, even if you're under 25, but be prepared for some added requirements.
Considerations
When choosing pay as you go food delivery insurance in the UK, there are several key considerations to keep in mind.
You should compare the costs of pay-as-you-go policies with conventional policies to ensure you're getting the best deal.
Policy limitations can vary, so it's essential to research the specifics of any policy you're considering.
Some pay-as-you-go policies may have exclusions or limitations that could leave you underinsured, so be sure to read the fine print.
Forgetting to log on or off can leave you uninsured, so it's crucial to have a good memory and stay on top of your policy.
If you work full-time as a delivery driver, pay-as-you-go insurance can become very costly, so it may be better to opt for an annual policy.
According to ZEGO Insurance, delivery drivers can expect to pay varying amounts for insurance, although specific costs are not provided in the article.
Potential Drawbacks
Pay as you go food delivery insurance can be a great option, but it's essential to consider the potential drawbacks.
The cost-effectiveness of this model relies heavily on the driver's activity level, and for those spending a fair amount of time working, the accumulated hourly premiums may greatly exceed those of a standard policy.
You may find that the choice of delivery companies you work for is limited to just some of the better known ones, which could be a drawback if you want to work for a variety of companies or even a local restaurant on the side.
If there are issues with the app used to track working hours, there may be discrepancies in the cover and costs, which could be frustrating and confusing.
This could lead to voided cover, leaving you without the protection you need in case of an accident or other incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which insurance is best for food delivery?
For food delivery, consider 'commercial travelling' cover, which includes social use, allowing you to use your vehicle for both work and personal activities. This type of insurance is specifically designed for drivers who transport goods for payment.
What happens if I don't have food delivery insurance?
If you're involved in an accident while delivering goods without insurance, you may be held financially responsible for damages and could face legal consequences. Consider investing in delivery driver insurance to protect yourself and your livelihood.
Sources
- https://www.simplyquote.co.uk/courier-insurance/food-delivery/pay-as-you-go/
- https://multiquotetime.co.uk/fast-food-delivery-insurance/pay-as-you-go-delivery-insurance/
- https://www.prudentplus.com/pay-as-you-go-courier-insurance.html
- https://www.simplyquote.co.uk/insights/what-is-pay-as-you-go-food-delivery-insurance/
- https://ugoscootersblog.com/2024/07/22/5-benefits-of-pay-as-you-go-food-delivery-insurance/
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