As a Private Hire driver my minibus insurance is never cheap, but somehow over the last few years I have managed to get my premium down three times in a row!

I drive an LDV 17 seater minibus, value is around £10000 and I always have Comprehensive insurance cover. 

I think my insurance quotes have come down because a few new companies (both minibus insurance brokers and insurance companies) have come into the minibus and private hire insurance marketplace, this competition has meant a better deal for us minibus owners.

There are now 6 minibus and private hire insurance companies that I know of who will quote on and cover a private hire minibus or mpv, this is compared to the choice of 2 companies that I had 3 or 4 years ago.

There are also loads more brokers who have the facility to place business with these minibus insurance companies, as a result of the increased competition some are willing to cut commissions to get the business, it is always worth playing the insurance brokers off against each other. 

Another thing that has helped me save money is restricting who drives my minibus and increasing my insurance excess from £250 to £500.

I also try and avoid paying by Direct Debit as this can add around 10% to the total insurance premium paid, also watch out for extras such as breakdown cover that get added on without you being made aware.

Please add your minibus insurance experiences, tips and horror stories to the minibus blog and hopefully the blog will help save other minibus owners some money when they are getting insurance quotes for their minibus, mpv or private hire vehicle!