Van Security: 8 Tips to Protect your Van and Tools

We know that van security is a priority for you and your livelihood. Not only is the van itself expensive, but its contents is a valuable part of your business. That’s why we want to give you the best tips on keeping your van, tools and equipment safe from theft.

Do you need van security devices?

Any van owners out there might be interested to know that since 2016, over 43,000 vans have been stolen across the UK, with an extra 117,000 being broken into. That’s around 43 vans a day.*

Even though your insurance should cover you if the worst happens, it’s best to protect yourself from opportunistic thieves in the first place. That way, the job at hand won’t be delayed by the extra hassle of replacing your equipment.

What are the best van security systems?

Starting with the basics, firstly check if your van has a Thatcham Category 2 security alarm and immobiliser. This means they’re integrated with each other.

Most vans will be factory fitted with an alarm and immobiliser, but older vans may not have these. Modern vans should offer optional extras including an upgrade in security, but these will obviously come with a cost.

While you can't put a price on security, there’s lots of ways to protect your van without spending more than you’d like. Here are some top tips for you to consider to help keep your van and tools safe:

1. Don’t leave tools and valuables in your van overnight

This sounds like an obvious one, but getting your heavy-duty tools out of the van and into the garage isn’t the most relaxing task after a long day’s work. It’s worth doing where possible though, as an empty van is a big deterrent for thieves.

2. Make a list of what’s in your van

Another free way of protecting your equipment is to take photos and make a list of everything in the van. Doing this every now and then is a great way to keep on top of what you're working with.

Not only could it come in handy when submitting an insurance claim, having an up-to-date list could also make it easier to spot tool theft.

3. Use a UV pen to mark items

A lot of people will check second-hand tools for UV markings that don’t match the seller’s information as this usually indicates they could be stolen goods. In the event your tools do go missing, having your business name marked in UV ink makes them much more identifiable.

4. Make your staff aware of security risks

If you employ staff, having your Ford Transits decked out with security devices doesn’t yet mean you’re onto a winner. You don’t want to be working on site and notice the van has been left unattended with its rear doors or side door open for example.

It's a good idea to spend time taking your team through the do’s and don’ts when it comes to van security. Making this a habit whenever you bring someone new on board should also benefit you.

5. Park your van in a safe location

Thieves will be on the look-out day and night. So, have you thought about parking your van in open and well-lit places that have CCTV? With tool theft on the rise, parking somewhere secure is your best bet when you’re away from home.

6. Invest in van security locks

If you’re happy to spend some cash on van security products, there are a few types of van locks you could consider buying. For example, a steering wheel lock would help stop the whole van from being stolen. However, they can be easily broken by experienced thieves. There are two popular locks on the market at the moment:

Slamlocks

A slamlock is what it says on the tin. They’ll kick in as soon as you slam your door shut. The downside is that you could leave your keys in the van and end up locking yourself out. So that’s something to bear in mind when choosing the security locks for you.

These locks could be good for delivery drivers who leave their van often, but only for short periods.

Van deadlocks

This type of lock is separate to your van’s regular one as they need to be locked manually. They’re very difficult to get passed, so a thief will struggle to break all the way into your van even if they get through the internal lock.

Deadlocks could be useful for you if you leave your van unattended for a good few hours each day.

7. Don’t forget about your cat

Protecting your van and its contents is all well and good, but don’t forget about the risk of catalytic converter theft. Vans are targeted more than cars for this, as the added ground clearance makes the catalytic converter much easier to get to.

They’re targeted because of the precious metals they contain. But luckily, there are anti-theft devices and catalytic converter locks you can invest in.

8. Get the right van and tools insurance

Lastly, paying insurance premiums is no one’s favourite hobby, but looking out for your future self is worth it.

Van insurance is a given if you are going to be driving from site to site as it’ll protect you in all sorts of events. And Tool Insurance is a good option to get your business back on its feet ASAP if the worst happens.

*Information has been taken from ‘What Car?’ and is correct as of January 2020.

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