Whether you drive your van for business, pleasure or a combination of both there are a number of proactive steps which you can take to help lower the insurance premiums.

1. Probably the most important factor is to shop around and compare quotations. This may seem like the most logical step to take, however, many people simply opt to renew their policy with the same insurance company year after year, which means they may not always be getting the best deals.

2. Inform the insurance companies that you are shopping around for the most competitive prices. Many, including your existing insurance company, may offer to beat any like-for-like quote you have been given. It is definitely a buyer\'s market when it comes to finding great deals. Insurance companies are being hit as hard by the recession as many other businesses, as such they are offering some great incentives and very competitive pricing to try and gain new custom.

3. One of the easiest ways to lower insurance premiums is to ask to pay a higher excess. Excess is the amount of money you will have to pay should you make a claim, this is not usually an actual monetary payment, the insurers will deduct this from the amount of money they payout on successful claims. All insurance policies come with a set amount of excess attached to them. By offering to increase the excess it is possible for the premiums to be reduced. Remember, if you do have the need to make a claim it will cost you more, therefore this option should be given careful consideration before you make a decision.

4. Drivers who have a proven no claims history and have accrued a number of years no claims bonuses with be offered some very generous discounts. The amount of discount does vary between insurance companies which is another reason shopping around is a good idea. Some insurance companies are offering up to 70% discounts at the moment. So, if you have a no claims discount of over four or five years make sure you inform the insurance companies.

5. Proactive security measures to help reduce the risk of theft and damage are seen very favourably by insurance companies. Having an alarm and immobiliser fitted, along with tracking devices can help lower the insurance premiums. Other proactive measures such as keeping your van in a secure place, such as a garage, when it\'s not in use will also be taken into consideration by the insurance companies. Stickers which inform would be opportunist thieves that no tools or equipment are kept in the van overnight may not actually help lower the insurance costs, but they may be enough of a deterrent to make thieves think twice before attempting to steal from your van.

6. Having Third Party only insurance cover will also reduce the premiums. However, it should be realised that this is the basic insurance available and will not provide cover if your van is damaged or written off after being involved in an accident which is proven to be caused by you. This level of cover does not include theft or fire protection either.

Cheap van insurance is available if you carry out some research and discuss your individual needs with the insurance companies.