Easy to Install Van Security Measures
There are numerous security measures you can put in place to protect your vehicle. Simple things like parking in well-lit areas with CCTV coverage and installing a 'tools are not left in the van overnight' sticker could assist.
Physical security devices such as steering locks, pedal locks and hook lock catches are also efficient. Select locks that have been approved by Thatcham.
1. Lock the doors
Many van drivers use vehicles to transport expensive equipment and tools. This makes them targets for thieves who are opportunistic. Having your van broken into it could hinder you from doing your job and could cost you your livelihood.
Make sure that your van is secured when you're not making use of it, and make sure keys are hidden from view. Parking in well-lit, open areas that have a large public presence can also hinder criminals.
Locks from the standard manufacturer are usually easy to pick or force open, but specialist suppliers can upgrade them with more difficult-to-break alternatives. RepLocks that are fitted by Ford Transit van dealers, are an example. Wheel pedals and clamps are great examples. Lock shields are another option, since they protect the lock's area with the use of a metal plate that is not drillable. They also prevent bolt cutting.
Another alternative is a slam locks that locks automatically the doors to your load area when you close them, but requires an entry key. They are ideal for vans with multiple drop points and couriers. They can also be fitted a hook lock to provide more protection for the side and rear doors.
Another alternative is to install an engine immobiliser. While it won't stop theft, it will prevent your van from starting without the right key. These are usually fitted to new vans, but could also be retrofitted to older ones.
2. Secure the fuel cap
Caps for fuel can be removed using a tool used by thieves who remove the wheel trims from vans with engines that run on petrol or diesel. There are van security systems to secure this area of your vehicle. You can use a padlock, or a strong cord that keeps it in the right place. A lot of these cables come with an LED that can be activated by movement to alert you to any suspicious activities around your van.
A pedal lock or steering lock is another physical barrier. It prevents the pedals and wheel from being used to drive your vehicle away. They can be secured using a key, and are difficult to remove without the aid of an angle grinder or other specialist tools.
Of course the van security suggestions are only effective if you remember to use them! Make sure to lock your doors when you leave your vehicle. It is also recommended to consider an engine immobiliser. These are often installed in new vans, but they can be fitted in older vehicles too. They prevent the engine from running without the correct key, and a lot of them have a Thatcham Cat 1 rating that can reduce your insurance premiums.
3. Install a slam lock
If you don't secure your van correctly the back area is susceptible to thieves who are opportunistic. There are a variety of kinds of van locks available to protect your cargo. These include deadlocks as well as locks that slam. Both locks provide security for your van's cargo but a slamlock would be better suited for those who access their vehicle's rear frequently, such as couriers and multi-drop drivers.
The slam locks are made to automatically lock the van's door as soon as it is shut. There is no need to worry about forgetting your van doors when you're in a rush. They also act as a visual restraining device for thieves. They are ideal for multi-drop delivery drivers in particular, as they prevent 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. These can be installed at the site by our trained locksmiths. We also offer a training course for locksmiths who would like to offer this service to combat the increasing number of commercial vehicle burglaries.
The Garrison Slamlock is the slamlock kit we use during our training course. It is an electronic slam lock that works with the manufacturer's locking system to provide Maximum Security and a simple installation. It eliminates the requirement for a vehicle driver to physically open a door handle. This helps ensure that it is in compliance with Health & Safety at Work legislation and Corporate Manslaughter laws.
4. Install a catalytic lock
The catalytic converter is vital to control the emission of your car However, it also has precious metals which make it a desirable target for thieves. Installing a lock for a catalytic converter is a cost-effective way to deter theft by putting up an physical barrier as well as a visual deterrent. It's a small investment that could save you from a costly replacement cost and the hassle of driving around in a car that is not working.
There are a variety of catalytic lock systems on the market. They range from basic cable locks to more advanced systems that utilize sensors to detect heat or vibrations. These devices are all effective in deterring thieves regardless of their effectiveness.
One of the most well-known options is a clamp-and-cable device that can be plugged into your catalytic converter and comes with a cable locking mechanism to secure it. Amazon has a wide selection of these devices that can be installed on almost any vehicle. van secure have an orange-colored coating that helps make the catalytic converter more visible, while others are constructed of stainless steel to provide increased cut resistance.
van security systems can also write your vehicle's identification number on the catalytic convertor. This makes it easier for authorities or scrap dealers to trace the piece back to the owner and can act as a strong deterrent against theft. You can also make the catalytic converter fluorescent in order to make it stand out. This will not stop thieves from stealing the catalytic converter, but it will deter thieves and enable them to make a quick resale profit.
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 basically an aluminum wall that divides the back of your van from the driver's cabin. This allows you to keep fire extinguishers, reflective kits and First Aid kits while still being capable of driving your vehicle in a safe manner.
Additionally, a partition functions as a deterrent, since it stops thieves from getting access to the rear of your vehicle. This is a particularly useful security measure for older vehicles that don't feature fuel cap locks that can be opened with minimal effort with a few tools.
Additionally, a partition can be fitted with motion sensors that track the movement within and outside of your vehicle. These work much like a house alarm system which means that any disturbance or breach will trigger the alarm and notify you of what's going on. In addition to these systems, some of them offer GPS tracking capabilities that allow you to know where your van is 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 a variety of features and mounts to meet your needs. For instance, they may have multiple cameras or an adjustable camera position. In addition, a partition can be combined with security signs visible to the public and audible alarms to provide additional protection. You can also consider investing in a hidden lock box secured in a discreet location inside your van, to stow keys that you don't need.
6. Brand your van
The space you have on your van is essentially free advertising. If you are able to do it correctly branding can help bring in new business & increase the visibility of your business. It also helps discourage criminals, since a well-designed, eye-catching van sign will promote your business to any would-be thieves, and also inform that they are not allowed to use the tools or valuables you might have in your.
There are several ways to brand your vehicle The most popular is probably magnetic signs that can be removed easily without harming the paintwork of your vehicle. Vinyl wraps are more costly but they offer protection from scratches and last years. Hire a professional graphic or sign writer to design a unique look that will look stunning on your van. But make sure they've worked with security upgrades.
Most modern vans come fitted with alarms & immobiliser systems, but it's worth checking to ensure that the system you have is Thatcham Category 2 approved. You can also add locks that slam, a catalytic converter lock or even a partition to improve the security of your van. It's worth shopping around to find the best price. Certain insurers offer discounts when you install extra security measures. Be sure to inform your insurance company of any modifications you make to your vehicle. Taking the time to upgrade your van's security can ensure your investment is protected & ensure it stays safe throughout the day.