Easy to Install Van Security Measures
There are numerous security measures you can put in place to protect your van. Simple things such as parking in areas that have CCTV coverage and installing a 'tools are not stored in this van overnight' sign can assist.
Physical devices to prevent theft like steering locks, pedal locks, and hook lock catches are also efficient. Make sure to select locks that are certified by Thatcham.
1. Lock the doors
Many van drivers use vehicles to transport expensive equipment and tools. They are therefore the most frequent target for thieves who make a profit of the situation. Having your van broken into can stop you carrying out your work and could ruin your life.
When you aren't using your van ensure it's secured and keys are kept in a safe place. Parking in well-lit, open areas with a significant public presence can also discourage criminals.
Locks from the standard manufacturer are usually easy to pick or force open However, specialist providers can upgrade them with harder-to-crack options. RepLocks, which are fitted by Ford Transit van dealers, are a good example. Wheel clamps and pedals are also good examples. Lock shields are also helpful by securing the lock area by putting up a metal plate that is impossible to drill through, and also preventing bolt cutting.
Another option is a slam lock which locks your doors to the load area when you close them but requires the use of a key. These are perfect for vans with multiple drop points and couriers. They can also be fitted a hook lock that provides more protection to the rear and side doors.
Another option is an engine immobiliser. Although it doesn't stop theft, it will stop your vehicle from starting without the correct key. They are usually fitted to new vans, however, they can be retro-fitted to older models.
2. Secure the cap on the fuel filler.
The vast majority of vans run on a petrol or diesel engine, and thieves can gain access to the fuel tank by removing the wheel trims, and then dropping the fuel cap using a tool. There are several different ways to secure this part of your vehicle, including locking the cap using a padlock or using an extremely strong cable made of metal that secures it. A lot of these cables have an LED that is activated through movement to alert you to any suspicious activity around your vehicle.
Another physical deterrent is a steering pedal lock, which stops the pedals and wheel from being used to drive away your vehicle. These are secured with keys and locks. They are difficult to remove, even using an angle grinder.
These tips for van security are only useful if you implement them. So, make sure that you make securing your van part of your everyday routine, and always secure the doors when you're away from it. You should also consider an engine immobiliser. These are often built into new vans, but they can be fitted in older vehicles too. They prevent the engine from starting until the correct key is present and a lot of them come with the CAT 1 rating of Thatcham which can help reduce the cost of insurance.
3. Install the lock using a slam
The rear of your van is susceptible to thieves who are opportunistic if it's not secured properly. However, there are different types of van locks available to secure your cargo. These include deadlocks as well as slam locks. Both offer protection for your van's cargo, but a slam lock is better suited for those who regularly access the back of their vehicle like courier drivers and delivery drivers with multiple drop.
click through the up coming page are designed to automatically lock the van's door as soon as it is shut. You don't have to worry about losing the van's doors if you are in a hurry. They also serve as a visual deterrent to thieves. These are perfect for drivers with multiple drops because they stop the temptation of leaving vehicles open for too long.
We can supply slam locks that are vehicle-specific, which means you can be sure that they'll fit perfectly. Our locksmiths are able to install these locks on the spot. We also offer a training course to locksmiths who want to provide this service in order to reduce the number of commercial vehicle burglaries.
The slam lock kit we use during our training courses is the Garrison Slamlock. This mechanical slamlock integrates with the vehicle's locking system to provide Maximum Security. It is simple to install. It eliminates the need for drivers to physically open the manufacturers door handle, and is in compliance with Health & Safety at Work and Corporate Manslaughter legislation.
4. Install a catalytic converter lock
The catalytic converter is vital to control the emission of your car however, it also contains precious metals, making it an attractive target for thieves. Installing a lock on your catalytic converter is an inexpensive option to deter theft. It adds a physical barrier as well as a visible deterrent. It's a modest investment that could save you from a costly replacement cost, as well as the stress of having to drive around with a malfunctioning car.
There are many different kinds of catalytic converter locks on the market that range from basic cable-locking devices to more sophisticated systems that incorporate sensors to detect heat or vibrations. While the effectiveness of these devices is different, they all serve as an effective deterrent for would-be thieves.
One of the most well-known solutions is a clamp and cable device that can be positioned over your converter catalyser. It features a cable locking mechanism to keep it in place. Amazon has a large selection of these devices that can be installed on almost any vehicle. Some even have a bright orange coating to make the catalytic converter visible as well as others constructed of stainless steel to provide greater cut resistance.
You can also engrave your vehicle's identification number on the catalytic convertor. This will allow authorities to locate the owner of the component or scrap dealers. It also serves as a deterrent to theft. You can also paint the catalytic converter fluorescent in order to make it stand out. This won't stop thieves from stealing the catalytic converter, but it will deter them and allow them to make a swift profit from reselling.
5. Install a partition
Van partitions are an excellent solution for those concerned about the security of their cargo space. It's a steel partition that separates your van's back from the driver's compartment. This lets you keep things such as First Aid kits, reflective kits and fire extinguishers all while being able drive your vehicle safely.
A partition also serves as a deterrent, because it stops thieves from gaining access to the rear end of your vehicle. This is a particularly useful security measure for older vehicles which don't have fuel cap locks, which can be opened with minimal effort using a few tools.
A partition could be also fitted with motion detectors that track the movement inside and outside of your vehicle. They function similar to a house alarm system, meaning that any tampering or incident will cause the alarm to sound and alert you to what's going on. Certain systems also offer GPS tracking, which allows you to monitor your vehicle in real-time.
They are available in both battery and hardwired powered models to allow for flexibility and mobility. They're usually available with a variety options and features that will meet your requirements, like an adjustable camera position as well as multiple camera capacity. A partition can also be combined with audible alarms as well as visible security signs to provide additional security. You can also buy an invisible lockbox that is discretely secured inside your vehicle. This allows you to secure store keys that you may not use.
6. Brand your van
Your van's space is essentially advertising for nothing. If you do it right, branding can aid in attracting new business and increase the visibility of your company. It also can discourage criminals since a well designed, eye-catching display on your van will advertise your business's name and warn potential thieves of the tools or valuables that you might have in your.
Magnetic signs are the most straightforward to remove without damaging the paintwork of your vehicle. Vinyl wraps cost more however they provide some protection from dents & will last years. Another alternative is to engage a professional graphic designer or sign writer to create a unique design for your van, which will look fantastic - but be sure to verify that they are capable of installing security upgrades.
It is important to ensure that your van is Category 2 certified. You can also add a slamlock, a catalytic convertor lock, or a partition to increase the security of your vehicle. Some insurers will reduce the cost of your insurance if you install extra security measures, so it's always worth shopping around to find the best price. Inform your insurance company of any changes you make to your van. Taking the time to upgrade your van's security will help you protect your investment and ensure that it is secure at all times.