The cost of motor insurance can be attributed to five main factors:

• Driver (age, driving experience, points on license etc.)
• Van (what is the insurance group of the van)
• Location (post code, is the car parked in a garage etc.)
• Usage (private or business use)
• The Insurance Company (what is the insurer's specialist area?)

Moving house or commercial premises in order to lower your premium is perhaps a little drastic. However, there are steps you may be able to take that can reduce your premium:

• Voluntary Excess - agree to increase the excess you would pay in the event of a claim being made.
• Security - have a Thatcham approved immobiliser and alarm installed.
• Limit Mileage - agree to limit the number of miles you will drive

Premiums can vary considerably from one insurer to the next. The answer is to shop around. There is no charge for obtaining a quote. The only cost is your time. This is where an insurance broker can help.

Insurance brokers obtain quotes from a number of insurers on your behalf in order to find you the best deal. Some brokers are able to compare hundreds of policies in a matter of seconds. Direct Choice are one example of an impressive online car insurance broker able to do this in order to find you the cheapest quote. In fact, a broker such as Direct Choice can often improve on their online quote if you are able to find a cheaper policy elsewhere. You just need to give them a call. (Tel: 08000 88888)