When it comes to insuring their corporate fleets, companies face a fundamental decision: Should the vehicles be insured under a Per-Vehicle Fleet Insurance be summarized, or is a structure consisting of Individual policies with no-claims classes (SF classes) the more practical choice?
Both models have clear advantages—the best decision regarding whether or not to opt for a motor fleet insurance policy depends heavily on the size of the fleet, the frequency of vehicle replacements, the group of drivers, and the claims history.
True fleet insurance (typically for 15 or more vehicles) is not tied to the individual no-claims class of each vehicle. Instead, the entire fleet is treated as a single economic unit and calculated based on the overall loss ratio (Renta) and a breakdown of individual claims for the respective vehicle class, such as passenger cars or delivery vans.
For the same vehicle categories (e.g., all delivery vans or passenger cars), a fixed premium applies per vehicle type. The driver’s age, the group of users, or the annual mileage no longer affect the premium amount per vehicle. This provides the highest level of budget and cost certainty.
Fleet contracts offer customized provisions that are not included in standard rates. These include, for example, coverage for braking, operational, and collision damage (BBR), coverage for damage between the policyholder’s own vehicles, a waiver of the gross negligence defense, and expanded replacement value compensation.
A huge time saver in day-to-day operations: The company is assigned a permanent EVB number. New and replacement vehicles can be registered directly with the registration authority without having to request an individual quote or a coverage commitment from the insurer each time.
To register a new vehicle, the insurer usually only requires the submission of the Certificate of Registration, Part I (vehicle registration certificate). There is no need for time-consuming application forms or inquiries.
In corporate groups, holding companies, or parent-subsidiary structures, legally independent companies can be covered under a single fleet insurance policy. This consolidates purchasing volume and ensures the best possible terms for all entities.
The premium adjustment at the main renewal date is calculated transparently based on the overall fleet’s own loss ratio (Renta). Thus, a single major claim does not ruin the rating for all individual vehicles; rather, it is absorbed by the overall fleet.
Young drivers (e.g., trainees or employees under the age of 23) as well as drivers who change frequently can operate the vehicles without incurring surcharges for additional pricing criteria (driver category, mileage, vehicle assignment, etc.).
For smaller fleets (often ranging from 3 to 20 vehicles) or companies with an excellent, claims-free history, the model of individual policies with personalized no-claims discounts (SFR) can often be the more cost-effective option.
Each vehicle accumulates its own claim-free years. The reward system is transparent: Drivers who remain accident-free move up to a better SFR class and continue to reduce their premium year after year. On the other hand, claims negatively affect the individual SF classes.
Existing SFRs for departing employees, executives, or older vehicles—as well as special classifications—can be directly imported and utilized. This means that newly purchased vehicles do not start from scratch but immediately benefit from low premium rates.
With a small number of vehicles, a single comprehensive insurance claim in a fleet model would significantly increase the overall loss ratio. The SFR model isolates the claim to the specific vehicle involved—all other vehicles continue to be classified in their favorable SFR classes without interruption.
Some insurers also offer so-called small-fleet or vehicle fleet plans, which are tied to no-claims classes but are flexible within the plan. An overall assessment of claims also applies.
Through special agreements, favorable initial ratings (e.g., SF 1/2 or SF 2 for new vehicles) as well as "discount-preserving" clauses—which mitigate downgrades in the event of a claim—can be arranged.
If a vehicle is sold or is no longer in use, the hard-earned SFR is retained and can be flexibly transferred to a new vehicle, another company vehicle, or even a private individual.
Each vehicle accumulates its own claim-free years and becomes more affordable year after year.
Discounts for vehicles or individuals being phased out can be secured and passed on.
A claim affects only the vehicle involved—all other vehicles remain in their lower-cost classes.
Criterion |
Per-Vehicle Fleet Insurance |
Individual Contracts with SFR |
Recommended Fleet Size |
Starting at about 15 vehicles | Ideal for 3 to 20 vehicles |
Premium Calculation |
Fixed per-unit bonus per vehicle category | Customized by SF Class & Characteristics |
Driver Group & Age |
Unlimited / No additional premiums | Mostly limited / Age taken into account |
Registration / Admission |
Permanent EVB (immediate approval possible) | A separate EVB is required for each license |
Impact of the Damage |
Re: Total Loss Ratio (Renta) | Downgrades only the affected vehicle |
Administrative burden |
Minimal (Collective Billing & Bundling) | Medium to high (individual documents) |
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