Fuel and operating costs are the leading source of work-related stress for self-employed van users, according to research by Tempcover, a temporary business van insurance company.
The insurance provider surveyed 500 self-employed people across the UK who rely on vans for work, including drivers, tradespeople, and mobile service providers.
The research found that 91% experience some level of work-related stress, with 21% reporting high levels. More than half (59%) say they feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of managing every aspect of their work independently.
Fuel and operating costs are the most commonly cited source of day-to-day stress, at 26%, followed by general financial pressure (23%) and vehicle issues or breakdowns (17%). Managing workloads and deadlines accounts for 11% of responses, whilst finding consistent work accounts for 10%.
Financial pressures drive longer working hours
Disruptions also contribute to stress, with 71% of respondents saying delays, cancellations, and vehicle breakdowns significantly increase their stress levels.
Moreover, financial concerns affect workload decisions. More than six in 10 (62%) worry about covering basic expenses, including fuel, insurance, and vehicle maintenance, while 64% feel pressured to take on more work than is sustainable to cover costs.
Meanwhile, 61% find it difficult to switch off from work-related stress.
Two thirds (66%) feel overlooked by existing support structures, and around one in six say they receive inadequate financial support (16%), mental health support (15%), or operational support (14%).
Friends and family are the most commonly relied-on source of support, cited by 40% of respondents, followed by online forums and driver communities (30%). Insurance providers are a source of support for 27%, whilst 24% turn to trade associations or unions.
Vehicle costs top demand for practical support
Affordable vehicle maintenance or repair schemes are the most commonly requested form of support, cited by 40% of respondents. Fuel cost support or discounts follow at 37%, while 29% want better access to consistent work and 28% would welcome a financial safety net or income protection.
Mental health or wellbeing support is a priority for 17%, whilst 10% want access to replacement vehicles during downtime.
Claire Wills-McKissick, Temporary Business Van Insurance Expert at Tempcover, says, “These results highlight the pressures many self-employed van users face as they balance rising operating costs, unpredictable workloads, and the responsibility of running their work independently.
“While many are managing day to day, the data suggests a clear gap between the support people feel they need and how that support is accessed in practice.
“For many, informal networks such as friends, family, or peer communities are acting as a makeshift safety net, but it’s crucial to look towards a broader package of support when dealing with ongoing financial pressure, workload demands, and unexpected disruption.
“Our research shows many self-employed van users feel their specific challenges are being missed, so we urge van users to check they’re getting the full support available.
“By ensuring they have access to practical guidance and resources available through trade bodies and industry networks, solo operators can ensure they have the best possible support structure in place when it is needed most.”
For more from Tempcover, click here.
