Who Is Responsible For The Van Security Budget? 12 Top Notch Ways To Spend Your Money
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Easy to Install Van Security Measures
There are a number of security measures you can implement to improve the protection of your van. Parking in areas that have CCTV and having a sticker that says "tools are not to be stored in the van for more than a day" could be helpful.
Physical theft prevention devices like steering locks and pedal locks, as well as hook lock catches can also make a significant difference. Make sure to select locks that are certified by Thatcham.
1. Lock the doors
Many van drivers make use of their vehicles for work, including transporting expensive tools and equipment. This makes them targets for opportunistic thieves. Your life could be at risk if your van is broken into.
When you're not using your van ensure that it's locked securely and that keys are kept in a safe place. It is also recommended to park in open, well-lit areas with a strong public presence, as this could discourage criminals.
Specialists can replace standard locks with more difficult-to-crack alternatives. Dealer-fit RepLocks for Ford Transit vans are a excellent example as are wheel clamps and pedal locks. Lock shields are another option, as they protect the area of the lock by using an aluminum plate that is difficult to drill through. They also stop cutting bolts.
Another option is a slam lock which locks the doors to your load area when you close them but requires a key to operate. They are perfect for couriers or multi-drop vans, and they can also be fitted with hook locks, which provides more security to your rear and side doors.
An engine immobiliser is a different option - though it isn't a way to stop theft, it does prevent your vehicle from starting if the right key isn't in place. These are usually fitted to new vans, but could also be retrofitted to older models.
2. Secure the cap on the fuel tank
The vast majority of vans run on diesel or petrol engines, and thieves can gain access to the fuel tank by removing wheel trims, and lowering the fuel cap with an instrument. There are many ways to secure this part of your van. You can use a padlock or a sturdy metal cord that keeps it in the right place. A lot of these cables come with an LED that is activated by movement to alert you to any suspicious activity in the vicinity of your van.
Another physical dissuader is a steering or pedal lock, which stops the wheel and pedals from being used to drive away your vehicle. They are secured by keys and locks. They are difficult to remove, even using an angle grinder.
Of course, these van security ideas are only effective if keep them in mind! So, make sure that securing your van is part of your routine, and always secure the doors when you're not in it. It's also worth looking into an engine immobiliser for your van These are typically built into new models and are also available for older vehicles, too. They stop the engine from starting if it doesn't have the proper key, and most have a Cat 1 Thatcham rating that can reduce your insurance premiums.
3. Install the lock that locks a
The back of your van is susceptible to swindlers if not locked properly. However, there are different kinds of van locks to safeguard your cargo. They include deadlocks and locks that slam. Both offer protection for your van's cargo, but a slam locks is better suited for those who frequently use the back of their vehicles like courier drivers and delivery drivers who have multiple drop deliveries.
These slamlocks are designed to lock the doors of your van immediately after they are shut. You don't have to worry about omitting your van doors when you are in a hurry. They also act as a visual deterrent for thieves. They are ideal for delivery drivers who have multiple drop points, primarily as they help stop the temptation to leave vehicles unlocked for too long.
Our slam locks are car specific and therefore you can be certain that they will fit. Our locksmiths are able to install these locks on the spot. We also offer a training course for locksmiths who would like to offer this service to deal with the large number of commercial vehicle burglaries.
The slam lock kit we use on our training course is the Garrison Slamlock. It is mechanical slam lock that integrates with the vehicle manufacturer's locking system for Maximum Security and a simple installation. It eliminates the requirement for the driver to physically open the manufacturers door handle, providing conformity with Health & Safety at Work and Corporate Manslaughter law.
4. Install a catalytic lock
The catalytic converter is essential to control the emission of your car However, it also has precious metals which make it a tempting target for thieves. Installing a lock for a catalytic converter is an inexpensive way to stop theft by providing physical barriers and a visual deterrent. This small investment can save you from costly replacement and the hassle of driving around with an unusable car.
There are a variety of catalytic converter locks on the market, ranging from simple cable-locking devices to more sophisticated systems which incorporate sensors to detect heat or vibrations. These devices are all effective in deterring thieves regardless of their effectiveness.
One of the most sought-after solutions is a cable clamp device that fits over the catalyser converter. It comes with a mechanism to lock the cable to keep it in place. Amazon has a large selection of these devices that can be installed on almost every vehicle. Some even come with a bright orange coating to make the catalytic converter more visible as well as others made of stainless steel for an increased cut resistance.
You can also engrave the vehicle's number on the catalytic converter. This makes it easier for authorities or scrap dealers to trace the part back to its owner and can act as an effective deterrent to theft. Finally, you can also paint your catalytic converter with fluorescent paint to make it visible. This will not stop thieves from stealing the catalytic converter, but it will deter thieves van hook lock fitting and allow them to make a quick profit from reselling.
5. Fit a partition
A partition for your van is a great solution for those concerned about the vulnerability of their cargo space. It's a metal partition that separates your van's back from the driver's compartment. This lets you store items such as fire extinguishers and reflective kits as well as First Aid kits while being capable of driving your vehicle safely.
A partition also serves as a deterrent, because it blocks thieves from accessing the rear end of your vehicle. This is a very effective security measure for vans older than ten years old that don't have locks for the fuel cap. These can be accessed with ease using simple tools.
A partition can also be fitted with motion detectors that monitor the movement of people inside and outside your vehicle. These systems function like a home alarm system. They will notify you if there is any interference or altering. In addition to these systems, some offer GPS tracking capabilities that allow you to know where your van is located in real-time.
These systems can be wired into your van or powered by batteries to provide flexibility and portability. These systems are also available with different options for mounting and features to meet your needs. For example they could have multiple cameras or a camera that can be adjusted in position. In addition, a partition can be used in conjunction with security signs visible to the public and audible alarms for additional security. You can also purchase an invisible lockbox that is concealed inside your vehicle. This will allow you to safely store a spare key.
6. Brand your van
Your van's space is essentially an advertisement for free. If you use it right, branding will help you attract new business and increase the visibility of your business. It also helps discourage criminals since an attractive, well-designed signage on your van will advertise your business and warn potential thieves of the tools or valuables are inside.
Magnetic signs are the most straightforward to remove without damaging the paintwork of your vehicle. Vinyl wraps cost more but they offer protection from scratches and last for a long time. Hire a professional graphics or sign writer to design a unique look that will look amazing on your vehicle. But make sure they have experience installing security upgrades.
It is important to ensure whether your van is Category 2 certified. You can also add an slamlock, catalytic convertor lock or even a partition in order to improve the security of your vehicle. Some insurance companies will reduce the cost of your insurance if you install additional security measures, so it's always worth comparing to find the best deal. Inform your insurance provider of any modifications that you make to your vehicle. Improve the safety of your van to protect your investment and ensure it is always secure.