How far will van drivers go to take jobs?

A new Tempcover survey has revealed that 63% of tradespeople are now willing to drive their van 31.7 miles further than when they started their current job[1].

Key motivations for this increase[2] in driving miles include:

• Higher pay
• More job opportunities
• A desire to expand client base or business reach

Reasons for this could include changing industry demands, financial pressures, growing competition and the cost of living.

Why are van drivers travelling further?

We surveyed 500 UK tradespeople who drive vans for their work[3], exploring the distances they’re willing to travel – and the reasons why. Here’s a breakdown of the most common reasons tradespeople gave for travelling further*.

• Higher pay – 61%
• More job opportunities – 56%
• Desire to expand client base or business reach – 43%
• More high-end/large-scale projects – 40%
• Increased local competition – 35%
• More reliable clients further away – 32%
• Fewer local jobs available – 32%
• Better working conditions – 29%
• Preference for certain types of projects that are not available locally – 21%

*Multiple responses were permitted from those who are willing to travel further for work

Top tips for van drivers working further afield

To support tradespeople who are looking to expand their business further afield, we’re offering the following tips:

1. Plan Efficient Routes: Use route-planning apps to avoid traffic congestion, reduce fuel costs, and arrive at jobs on time.
2. Combine Jobs in Similar Areas: Grouping multiple jobs in the same region can help reduce mileage, save time, and increase efficiency.
3. Consider Flexible Insurance: Temporary business van insurance offers tradespeople the flexibility to take on jobs further away from home without committing to an annual policy.
4. Keep Tools and Equipment Secure: Always lock and store tools securely to prevent theft, whether on-site, in transit, or at home.
5. Factor in Travel Costs: When quoting for jobs further afield, be sure to account for fuel, accommodation (if necessary), and potential toll charges.

Our survey suggests that tradespeople are increasingly likely to travel further as they seek more opportunities for their business. Although this could result in higher pay, it’s also likely to require increased flexibility as travel and schedules may vary.

Whether a van is needed for a one-off job, to cover for a colleague at short notice, or to travel extended distances, temporary business van insurance provides immediate coverage.  It allows van drivers to adapt their plans without committing to a long-term policy.

Sources and Methodology

[1] Combined MUCH + SOMEWHAT MORE answer options for the question: Are you willing to travel more or less for jobs now compared to since you started your current job?  Average distance taken for the question: How much more are you willing to travel for jobs now, on average, compared to when you started your current job? This was asked only to those who would be more willing to travel for work. 

[2] Multiple responses were permitted from those who are willing to travel further for work

[3] This online survey of 500 UK Tradespeople who drive a van for work was commissioned by RVU on behalf of Tempcover and conducted by market research company OnePoll, in accordance with the Market Research Society’s code of conduct. Data was collected between 10/03/2025 and 13/03/2025. All participants are double-opted in to take part in research and are paid an amount depending on the length and complexity of the survey. This survey was overseen and edited by the OnePoll research team. OnePoll are MRS Company Partners, corporate membership of ESOMAR and Members of the British Polling Council.