The number of van thefts across the UK has increased to epidemic levels – in the UK all over the world, there are more than 20,000 stolen from vans each year.
These statistics are awful when you look them up. But , of course, numbers aren’t the only thing to consider. Van thefts can ruin businesses’ livelihoods and cost contractors millions of dollars in order to replace lost equipment. In addition, there are increases in insurance costs and loss of money due to not being in a position to work.
It is sensible then for all companies and contractors to make sure they have their trucks as secure as they can be.
In the majority of situations, prevention is more effective than treatment. This is certainly the case with van thefts. It’s easier to stop thieves and cheaper than trying to handle the consequences.
Tips to protect yourself from theft from vans
It’s good to know that that you can stop many thefts. A vehicle with van security lock installation and the best alarm will stop most thieves. However, there are other steps you can take to lower the chance of theft.
Install the most secure vehicle security lock. A skilled thief could get into a car within less than two minutes. The addition of additional locks can decrease the likelihood of succeeding. Installing heavy-duty locks on the doors will offer additional security. It is also recommended to install deadlocks. These locks are simple and extremely effective since they aren’t based with the same mechanism as door locks. Speaking of which.
Slam locks are yet another method of defense. They are ideal because they automatically lock the van’s doors once they are closed. They are particularly useful especially for drivers of delivery vehicles who frequently drive and park their vans. Contact us for assistance and a quote for fitting the most secure lock for your van.
Take the van out of the garage at night. It’s easy to say. Sometimes, it’s not practical. Particularly when working. But taking anything valuable from a van left unattended for a long time is a prudent precaution.
Have extra van alarms fitted. Your vehicle is likely to have an alarm from the factory. However, you should consider replacing it with an aftermarket van alarm. Each layer of security is helpful and we’ll help you decide what the most effective alarms for your vehicle. A good alarm system for your van won’t only safeguard the equipment and tools. It will also stop a burglar from leaving the van. This is a good incentive to improve your van’s alarm.
Parking in a well-lit location. If you own a compound, this is simple enough to set up. However, if you’re a contractor and you park it at your house,, keep it locked in a secured garage. If there’s no garage available and you have to park your vehicle in the open, make sure you have an automatic floodlight that is motion activated.
Don’t let your guide down.
Thieves do not just strike in the night. Make sure the van is secured. Even during the daytime when working on site. Always shut all windows. No matter how far from the place do not leave keys inside the ignition.
Set up with a tracker
Sometimes , despite the best security measures thieves still be successful. Sometimes it’s simply a matter of failing to lock your doors or setting an alarm.
The installation of the GPS tracker could help in the recovery of the vehicle that was stolen. If the vehicle is stolen, it isn’t a way to prevent theft of equipment. However, it will ensure that the possibility of regaining a costly van. Discuss with us the best tracker that will work for the vehicle you are driving.
Insurance
The chance of regaining stolen tools are slim to zero. The police will not assist in any way. They have a limited amount of resources and will not be able to look into the crime. They’ll likely just be giving you a criminal number. Then it’s about insurance.
It is important to ensure you have a solid insurance policy. Your policy must be able to cover every risk. One of the most crucial things to do is ensure that the policy covers all everything inside the van, including the tools and equipment. If you’re transporting items, be sure that the policy protects the loss.
Of course one of the biggest issues with insurance is the expense. If you’re fortunate enough to be required to make a make a claim under your insurance, you can be sure that your premiums will go up the following year.
Don’t feed the fire!
In the end, thieves would not attack vans if there wasn’t an industry for the tools they take. Don’t offer them the possibility of a market. Do not buy second-hand equipment only if they come from an established dealer. Be cautious of auction websites.
