Ongoing pressure from rising fuel and operating costs is contributing to the stress of self-employed people who rely on vans for their work, according to a new survey from temporary business van insurance specialist Tempcover. The research explores the realities of working independently on the road, including how workload demands, financial pressure and work-life balance are being affected, and where support gaps remain.

The majority (91%) of self-employed van users experience stress to some extent at work, including more than one in five (21%) who report high levels of stress. Many say the reality of working alone adds to this strain, with 59% feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility of managing every aspect of their work themselves.

When asked specifically about what is driving this stress day-to-day, fuel and operating costs come out on top (26%), followed by general financial pressure (23%) and vehicle issues (17%).

Delays and breakdowns

For self-employed van users, delays, cancellations and vehicle breakdowns can directly disrupt scheduled jobs, impact earnings, and create knock-on pressure for the rest of the day. When asked specifically about these types of disruptions, 71% say they significantly increase stress levels, highlighting the impact on day-to-day work.

Managing day-to-day business finances is also a key concern for self-employed van users, with more than six in ten (62%) saying they are worried about covering basic expenses such as fuel, insurance and vehicle maintenance.

This financial pressure is also influencing workload decisions, with nearly two in three (64%) saying they feel pressure to take on more work than is sustainable to cover costs. As a result, the strain extends beyond working hours, with 61% saying they find it difficult to switch off from work-related stress.

Lack of support

While pressures are widespread, many respondents feel available support, such as financial advice, business guidance and wider industry assistance, does not adequately reflect the impact of working alone with less of a safety net. Consequently, two-thirds (66%) of users say they feel overlooked. 

This is also reflected across specific areas, with around one in six saying financial (16%), mental health (15%) and operational support (14%) are not adequate.

Tempcover’s Claire Wills-McKissick comments on the findings: “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.”

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