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How insurance works when an HGV is seized
When a heavy goods vehicle is impounded, the pound applies the same release framework used for smaller vehicles, but the insurance checks are stricter because of the risk profile and the conditions attached to commercial use. A standard fleet or haulage policy is not automatically acceptable, even if it appears fully comprehensive. Pounds look for insurance that clearly permits release from a compound and is valid for use on UK roads from the moment the HGV leaves the site.
Why normal haulage or fleet cover is often rejected
Many fleet and haulage policies exclude seized vehicles, even where the business has “any authorised driver” terms. Some policies remain legally in force but do not contain wording that allows a vehicle to be driven away from a pound. Because pound staff cannot interpret or infer cover, they will only release the HGV by road if the certificate plainly meets impound-release requirements.
The same applies to temporary motor policies. Short-term cover is never accepted because policies lasting from one to twenty-eight days do not insure impounded vehicles. This rule applies regardless of vehicle size.
The insurance type pounds normally expect
To drive an impounded HGV out of the site, the driver usually needs a UK-issued impound-release policy with a minimum thirty-day term. This type of cover exists specifically to satisfy pound requirements. It differs from ordinary HGV, fleet or haulage insurance because it includes the clause needed for compound release and begins at the thirty-day point to distinguish it from excluded temporary cover.
The certificate must match the vehicle’s registration number, show the correct start time and list the person who will be driving the HGV out of the pound. Without this, road release is normally refused.
Where the vehicle belongs to a business or operator
If the HGV is owned by a haulage company, operator or leasing provider, the pound will expect the person attending to have clear authority from the business. Even so, insurance must still meet impound-release requirements. Being named on a company fleet policy is not enough unless the certificate explicitly covers seized vehicles. If the pound cannot confirm suitability, they will not allow the HGV to be driven out, regardless of company size or operator licensing status.
When a recovery company is used instead
Many operators choose to use a specialist vehicle recovery company to collect the HGV instead of arranging impound-release insurance. This is often the practical option for large vehicles, especially if the insurer’s position is unclear, or the vehicle needs inspection before returning to service. Pounds usually allow this once identity, authority and payment of fees have been completed. A driving policy is not required if the vehicle is leaving the pound on a transporter.
Driver requirements at release
The person driving the HGV out must hold the correct category of licence, have suitable impound-valid insurance in their own name and present strong photo ID at the desk. If a company uses an external driver or contractor, the pound will treat them the same as any other driver and will expect a certificate that clearly meets impound-release rules.
Pulling the information together
To release an impounded HGV for road use, pounds normally expect a UK-issued thirty-day impound-ready policy, matched to the vehicle and the driver, with clear wording that satisfies compound-release requirements. Standard haulage or fleet policies are frequently rejected because they exclude seized vehicles. If arranging suitable cover is difficult, a specialist recovery company can remove the HGV instead once all documents and fees are in order.
Impound processes, time limits and costs vary widely across the UK, and authorities can amend their rules at any time. Information on this site is intended as a general overview and should not be relied on as definitive for any specific impound location.