Private Plates

If you are travelling abroad with your van, third party cover is the minimum level of insurance you require to comply with the laws in each of the EEC countries.  Many insurance companies now include this level of cover as standard; it’s important to note that third party cover offers minimal protection and is advised to be increased.
It’s worth upgrading your insurance policy to offer the same level of cover overseas as you currently have in the UK.

What do I need to consider?

Am I covered for a courtesy van if my vehicle is lost/stolen or involved in an accident whilst overseas, and how long will a replacement take?
Do I have 24 hour accident recovery?
Does my policy include breakdown cover?
What medical expenses am I covered for in the unfortunate event of an accident?
Are my personal possessions and equipment insured while in the van?

What additional documents do I need?

If you are taking your van out of the country for less than 12 months, you need to make sure that you take your V5C registration documents with you.  The V5C document replaced the older V5 document in January 2004.  If you haven’t yet updated your document you can do so through your local DVLA office with a V62 form.  Please be aware that this form can take 2-3 weeks to be issued so apply in plenty of time before you travel.  The V5C change has been brought about to comply with the European Directive 1999/37/EC, which was agreed upon by all Members of the EEC.  It helps to combat vehicle trafficking and is used to identifies the owner of the vehicle.

Taking a van abroad that is on lease or hire purchase

If you are not the owner of the vehicle you are taking abroad because it is on lease, contract hire or hire purchase, it’s likely the hire company will hold the ownership document.  In such cases you will require a vehicle on-hire certificate (VE 103) available from the hire company.

For more information about VE 103 forms Visit the BVRLA

Lastly don’t forget to ensure that your driving licence is up to date.