Coach operators across the UK are facing increasing costs and changes to Employer National Insurance are adding to the pressure.
The latest Cost Monitor from the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) estimates that changes to Employer National Insurance introduced in April 2025 have added around £110 million a year to bus industry costs. This is equivalent to approximately 2.4% of payroll costs.
Why has National Insurance increased costs for bus operators?
From 6 April 2025, the rate of Employer National Insurance increased from 13.8% to 15%. The earnings threshold at which employers generally start paying National Insurance also fell from £9,100 to £5,000 a year.
For coach operators, this can have a noticeable impact because staffing is a major part of running a passenger transport business.
The latest CPT Cost Monitor shows that labour accounts for 57.8% of total bus operating costs, making it the largest cost for operators.
What does this mean for passenger transport operators?
With costs continuing to change, it's important for coach operators to regularly review their business expenses, including their insurance.
Your insurance needs can change as your business grows or develops. Adding vehicles to your fleet, changing how vehicles are used, employing additional drivers or introducing new services could all affect the cover you need.
Regularly reviewing your insurance can help make sure your policy still reflects your business and the risks you face.
Passenger Transport Insurance from Wrightsure
At Wrightsure, we understand the risks faced by coach and passenger transport operators.
Our Passenger Transport Insurance solutions can be tailored to the individual needs of your business, helping you arrange appropriate cover for your vehicles and operations.
If your business has changed or you haven't reviewed your insurance recently, speak to our team to discuss your requirements.
Click here to find out more about Wrightsure Passenger Transport Insurance
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