With the recent economic downturn Courier Insurance is one of those issues that seems to be returning to the head of the table, for a number of different, even extraordinary reasons;

1. Insurance companies are advising courier companies to check that their insurance policies are up to date.  They are recommending this as many couriers are keeping on older vehicles as opposed to replacing with new vans.  With Couriers keeping vans for longer companies need to make sure that the mileage limits stated in the quotations are sufficient, and also advised to check that their insurance policies offer sufficient cover should a van be off the road due to accidents etc.
2. Coming into Christmas, everyone is very aware of the large number of high value electronic items being ordered online and delivered by parcel couriers.  This makes the courier vans possible targets for van-jacking, and theft.  Courier companies are being advised that there are gangs that are "flagging down" single driver vans, telling them that the back doors are open, etc, and then when the driver gets out to check the gangs steal and drive away the van. 
3. With potentially large numbers of high value items on the vans for delivery up to and through the Christmas period, couriers are recommended to check that their Goods in Transit insurance is sufficient to cover all goods that they carry.  An accident which resulted in the full loss of a full load, when the goods in transit insurance cover is insufficient, could put a company into bankruptcy at times like this. 
4. Many courier companies are choosing to rent vans short and long term rather than commit to the purchase of a new vehicle.  The insurance industry recommends that courier companies check their policies to ensure that their insurance policy covers them fully whilst using hire vehicles.

There are many different companies offering courier insurance, so make sure that you shop around, and that the cover you purchase is sufficient for your business.