The Biggest Problem With Van Security, And How To Fix It

Easy to Install Van Security Measures There are numerous security measures you can install to improve the protection of your vehicle. Simple things like parking in areas with CCTV coverage and putting up a 'tools not left in this van overnight' sign can assist. Physical security devices like steering locks hook locks and pedal locks catch 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 opportunistic thieves. Your livelihood could be in danger if your van is broken into. If you aren't using your van ensure that it's secured and keys are kept in a safe place. security locks for van doors is also recommended to park in open, well-lit areas with a heavy public presence as this can deter criminals. Specialist suppliers can upgrade standard locks with more difficult-to-break alternatives. RepLocks, which are fitted by Ford Transit van dealers, are a good example. Wheel pedals and clamps are excellent examples. Lock shields are another option, since they shield the lock area by using the use of a metal plate that is impossible to drill through. They also stop bolt cutting. Another alternative is a slam lock which locks the doors to your load area when you close them but requires a key to operate. These are perfect for vans that have multiple drop locations and couriers. They can also be fitted with a hook lock that provides more protection for the rear and side doors. An engine immobiliser is a different option, but while it doesn't stop theft, it does prevent your van from starting if the proper key isn't there. They are usually fitted to new vans, but can be retro-fitted to older models. 2. Secure the cap on the fuel tank The majority of vans use a petrol or diesel engine and thieves could gain access to the fuel tank by removing wheel trims, and lowering the fuel cap with a tool. There are a variety of methods to secure this area of your van, including locking the cap using padlocks or an extremely strong cable made of metal that secures it. A majority of these cables are also equipped with LEDs that can be activated by movements and alert you to any suspicious activity around your vehicle. A pedal lock or steering lock is another physical deterrent. It blocks the pedals and wheels from being used to drive your vehicle away. They can be secured with the use of a key, and they are extremely difficult to remove without the help of an angle grinder or other specialist tools. Of course these van security tips are only effective if remember to use them! Make sure to secure your doors every time you leave your vehicle. You should also consider an engine immobiliser to your van These are typically built into new models but can be installed on older vehicles as well. They work by stopping the engine from running until the correct key is in place, and many come with the CAT 1 rating of Thatcham, which can help to reduce the cost of insurance. 3. Install a slam lock The back of your van can be vulnerable to thieves who are opportunistic if it's not properly secured. However, there are different kinds of van locks available to safeguard your cargo. Deadlocks and slamlocks are two of the most commonly used types. Both locks provide security for your van's cargo but a slamlock would be better suitable for those who need to access their vehicle's rear frequently such as couriers and multi-drop drivers. The slam locks are made to automatically lock the van door when it is closed. This means you don't have to worry about forgetting to lock your doors during rushed moments and also serves as a visual deterrent for thieves. They are ideal for multi-drop drivers because they stop the temptation to leave vehicles open for too long. We can provide slam locks that are vehicle specific meaning you can ensure they'll fit perfectly. They can be fitted on site by our fully certified locksmiths. We also offer a training course for locksmiths who want to offer this additional service to deal with the large number of commercial vehicle burglaries. The Garrison Slamlock is the slamlock kit we use during our training courses. This mechanical slamlock integrates with the locking system of the vehicle for Maximum Security. It is simple to install. It eliminates the need for a driver of a vehicle to physically open the door handle. This will ensure that it is in compliance with Health & Safety at Work regulations and Corporate Manslaughter laws. 4. Install a catalytic lock The catalytic converter is crucial for your vehicle's emission control, but it also contains precious metals, making it a tempting target for thieves. Installing locks on your catalytic converter is an inexpensive option to deter theft. It provides a physical barrier as well as a visual deterrent. This small investment could save you from costly replacement, and also the hassle of driving around with an unusable car. There are many types of catalytic lock systems available. These range from simple cable locks to more sophisticated systems that use sensors to detect vibrations or heat. These devices are all effective in deterring thieves regardless of their effectiveness. One of the most popular choices is a clamp-and-cable device that can be plugged into your catalytic converter. It also has a cable-locking mechanism to keep it secure. Amazon offers a variety of these devices that can be used on almost every vehicle. Some models have an orange-colored finish to make the catalytic convertor more visible. Others are made from stainless steel to give you more cut resistance. Another option is to have your catalytic converter engraved with your car identification number. This will make it easier for authorities or scrap dealers to trace the piece back to the owner and also acts as a strong deterrent against theft. You can also paint the catalytic converter fluorescent in order to make it more noticeable. This won't prevent thieves from taking the converter, but it will deter thieves and enable them to earn a quick resale profit. 5. Install a partition Van partitions are a fantastic option for those concerned about the security of their cargo space. Essentially, it's a steel wall that separates the back of your van from the driver's cabin. This lets you store items like fire extinguishers, reflective kits and First Aid kits, while being able to drive your vehicle safely. A partition can also serve as a deterrent since it blocks thieves from accessing the rear of your vehicle. This is a particularly useful security measure for older vehicles that don't have fuel cap locks, which can be accessed without much effort with a few tools. Additionally, a partition can be fitted with motion sensors that track movement inside and outside your vehicle. They function similar to an alarm system for your home, meaning that any tampering or intrusion will cause the alarm to sound and alert you to what's going on. In addition to these systems, some offer GPS tracking capabilities that allow you to track where your van is in real-time. These systems are available in both hardwired and battery powered versions to offer flexibility and mobility. They're also often available with a variety mounts and features that suit your needs, including an adjustable camera position as well as multiple camera capacities. In addition, a partition can be used in conjunction with security signs that are visible and audible alarms for additional protection. You can also consider investing in an unnoticed lock box, which is placed securely inside your van, to keep a spare key. 6. Brand your van The space in your van is basically free advertising – and if you do it right branding can help bring in new business & increase the visibility of your company. It also helps discourage thieves, as an attractive, well-designed van sign will advertise your business to any would-be thieves, and may warn them of the kind of tools or valuables you may have in your. Magnetic signs are the most straightforward to remove without causing damage to the paintwork of your vehicle. Vinyl wraps are more expensive, but they offer some protection from scratches and will last for years. Hire a professional graphic or sign writer to create a unique design that will look great on your van. Make sure they've worked with security upgrades. It is important to ensure that your van is Thatcham Category 2 certified. You can also add an slamlock, catalytic convertor lock or a partition to increase the security of your vehicle. Some insurers will reduce your premiums if you fit additional security measures, so it's worth looking around for the best deal. Make sure to inform your insurance provider of any modifications you make to your vehicle. By upgrading your van's security can aid in protecting your investment and ensure that it is secure at all times.