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Easy to Install Van Security Measures There are many security measures you can put in place to protect your vehicle. Simple things such as parking in areas with CCTV coverage, and putting up a 'tools not left in the van overnight' sticker could help. Physical theft prevention devices like steering locks and pedal locks, and hook lock catches can make a huge difference. Select locks that have been approved by Thatcham. 1. Lock the doors Many van drivers make use of their vehicles for work, bringing expensive tools and equipment. They are therefore a prime target for thieves who profit of the situation. Having your van broken into could stop you from carrying out your work and could ruin your life. Ensure van side door security is securely locked when you aren't making use of it, and ensure that the keys are kept out of sight. It is also recommended to park in well-lit, open areas with a heavy public presence as this can discourage criminals. Standard manufacturer locks are often easy to open by force or picking, but specialist suppliers can make them harder to crack alternatives. RepLocks, which are fitted by Ford Transit van dealers, are an example. Wheel clamps and pedals are also good examples. Lock shields are a different option, since they protect the area of the lock by using the use of a metal plate that is not drillable. They also stop cutting of bolts. A slamlock is a different option. It locks your doors automatically when you shut them, but it requires a key. They are perfect for vans with multiple drop points or couriers, and they can also be equipped with hook locks, which provides more security for your rear and side doors. Another alternative is to install an engine immobiliser. While it won't prevent theft, it can make sure that your vehicle isn't able to start without the proper key. These are usually installed on newer vans, but could also be retrofitted to older ones. 2. Secure the fuel filler cap Fuel caps can be lowered with a tool, by thieves who take off the wheel trims from vans that have engines that run on petrol or diesel. There are numerous ways to secure this area of your vehicle. You can use a padlock or a sturdy metal cord that holds it in place. Many of these cables are equipped with LEDs, which can be triggered by movement and alert you to any suspicious activity in your van. A pedal lock, or steering lock is another physical deterrent. It blocks the pedals and wheel from being used to drive your vehicle away. These are secured with keys and locks. They are a challenge to remove even with an angle grinder. These tips for van security are only effective if you follow them. So, make sure that securing your van is part of your daily routine, and that you always secure the doors when you're not in it. You should also consider an engine immobiliser. These are often built into new van models, but are also available for older vehicles as well. They prevent the engine from running until the correct key is present, and many come with a Thatcham CAT 1 rating which can help reduce your insurance costs. 3. Install a slam lock If you do not lock your van correctly, the back is vulnerable to thieves who are opportunistic. However, there are various types of van locks available to protect your cargo. These include deadlocks as well as locks that slam. Both provide security for your van's cargo but a slam locks is more suitable for those who frequently access the back of their vehicles such as courier drivers and delivery drivers with multiple drop. These slam locks are designed to automatically lock the van's door as soon as it is closed. You don't have to worry about omitting the van's doors if you're in a hurry. They also serve as a visual restraining device for thieves. They are perfect for drivers who deliver multiple drops for a variety of reasons, but they are particularly useful to stop the temptation to leave vehicles unlocked for too long. We can provide slam lock that are vehicle-specific, which means you can ensure they will fit correctly. They can be installed on-site by our fully qualified locksmiths. We also offer a training course for locksmiths who would like to provide this additional service to tackle the high number of commercial vehicle burglaries. The slam lock kit that we use during our training courses is the Garrison Slamlock. It is an electronic slam lock that integrates with the vehicle manufacturer's locking system for Maximum Security and a simple installation. It eliminates the need for drivers to physically open the manufacturer's door handle, providing compliance with Health & Safety at Work and Corporate Manslaughter law. 4. Install a catalytic converter lock Catalytic converters are vital to your vehicle's emissions control however, they also contain precious metals, which make them a tempting target for thieves. Installing locks on your catalytic converter is an inexpensive option to deter theft. It adds an physical barrier as well as a visual deterrent. It's a modest investment that can save you a substantial replacement cost and the hassle of driving around with an inoperable car. There are many different kinds of catalytic converter locks on the market which range from simple cable locking devices to more sophisticated ones which incorporate sensors to detect heat or vibrations. These devices are all effective in deterring thieves, regardless of their effectiveness. One of the most well-known solutions is a clamp and cable device that fits over your catalyser converter. It features a mechanism to lock the cable to keep it in place. These are readily available on Amazon and can be utilized with virtually any vehicle. Some even have an orange-colored coating that helps make the catalytic converter visible and some are made of stainless steel for greater cut resistance. You can also write your vehicle's identification number on the catalytic converter. This makes it easier for authorities to trace the owner of the part or scrap dealers. It also acts as a deterrent to theft. Finally, you can also paint your catalytic converter with fluorescent paint to make it more visible. This won't stop thieves from taking the converter, however, it will deter them and allow them to make a swift resale profit. 5. Create a partition A van partition is a great choice for those worried about the security of their cargo space. It's a partition made of steel that separates your van's rear from the driver's compartment. This lets you keep things such as First Aid kits, reflective kits, and fire extinguishers while still being able drive your vehicle in a safe manner. A partition can also serve as a deterrent because it prevents thieves accessing the rear of your vehicle. This is a particularly useful security measure for older vehicles that don't feature fuel cap locks, which can be opened with minimal effort with a few tools. A partition could also be fitted with motion detectors which monitor the movement of people within and outside your vehicle. These systems function like an alarm system for your home. They will notify you if there is any violation or any tampering. Certain systems also provide GPS tracking, which enables you to track your van in real-time. They are available in both battery and hardwired powered versions to offer flexibility and mobility. They're often also available with a variety features and mounts that meet your needs, including an adjustable camera position as well as multiple camera capacity. A partition can also be fitted with audible alarms and visible security signs for further security. You can also purchase an invisible lock box that is secured securely inside your van to keep keys that you don't need. 6. Brand your van The space on your van is essentially free advertising – and if you do it right, branding can help you gain new customers and improve the image of your company. It can also discourage criminals, since an attractive and well-designed van sign will promote your business to potential thieves, and also inform them of the kind of tools or valuables that you contain inside. Magnetic signs are the easiest to remove without damaging the paintwork of your vehicle. Vinyl wraps are more expensive, but they offer some protection from scratches and last for a long time. Hire a professional graphic or sign writer to design a unique look that will look great on your van. But make sure they've worked with security upgrades. It is important to ensure that your van is Category 2 certified. You can also install an slamlock, catalytic convertor lock or a partition to increase the security of your vehicle. Some insurance companies will reduce the cost of your insurance if you install additional security measures, and it's always worth comparing to find the best price. Inform your insurance provider of any modifications that you make to your van. Improve the safety of your van to safeguard your investment and ensure that it is safe at all times.