14 Businesses Doing An Amazing Job At Van Security
Easy to Install Van Security Measures There are many security measures you can implement to improve the protection of your vehicle. Simple things like parking in areas that have CCTV coverage and putting up a 'tools not stored in this van overnight' sign can help. Physical security devices such as steering locks and pedal locks, as well as hook lock catches can also make a big difference. Be sure to choose locks that are approved by Thatcham. 1. Lock the doors Many van drivers make use of their vehicles for work, including transporting expensive tools and equipment. This makes them targets for opportunistic thieves. Your life could be at risk if your van is broken into. When you're not using your van ensure that it's secured and keys are not visible. You should also aim to park in open, well-lit areas with a strong public presence as this can deter criminals. Locks from the standard manufacturer are usually easy to open by force or picking, but specialist suppliers can upgrade them with harder-to-crack alternatives. Dealer-fit RepLocks for Ford Transit vans are a good example as are wheel clamps and pedal locks. Lock shields are a different option, as they protect the area of the lock by using an aluminum plate that is difficult to drill through. They also prevent cutting of bolts. Another option is a slamlock. It locks your doors automatically when you shut them, but it requires a key. These are ideal for couriers or multi-drop vans, and they can also be fitted with hook locks that offers more protection to your side and rear doors. An engine immobiliser is another option – although this does not prevent theft, it could prevent your van from starting if the correct key isn't there. These are typically fitted to new vans, but they can be retrofitted to older models. 2. Secure the fuel cap The majority of vans run on diesel or petrol engines 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 ways to secure this part of your van. You can use a padlock, or a strong metal cord that keeps it in place. Many of these cables are equipped with an LED that is activated by movement, alerting you to any suspicious activity around your vehicle. Another physical deterrent is a steering pedal lock, which prevents the wheel and pedals from being used to drive away your vehicle. These can be secured with the use of a key, and they are very difficult to remove without the help of an angle grinder or other specialist tools. Of course, these van security ideas are only effective if remember to implement them! Make sure you lock your doors whenever you leave your vehicle. Also, you should consider installing an engine immobiliser. They are usually installed in new van models, but can be installed in older vehicles as well. They stop the engine from running without the correct key, and many have a Cat 1 Thatcham rating which can lower the cost of insurance. 3. Install an slam lock The rear of your van can be vulnerable to thieves who are opportunistic if it's not locked properly. There are a variety of kinds of van locks to protect your cargo. Deadlocks and slamlocks are two of the most commonly used kinds. van security system offer protection for your van cargo however a slam lock is better suited to those who regularly access the back of their vehicles like courier drivers and delivery drivers with multiple drop. These slamlocks are made to lock the doors of your van automatically when they are closed. You don't have to worry about losing the van's doors if you're in a rush. They also serve as a visual deterrent to thieves. These are great for drivers with multiple drops because they avoid the temptation to leave vehicles unlocked too long. We can provide slam locks that are specific to vehicles, meaning you can be certain that they'll fit perfectly. Our locksmiths can install these locks on-site. We also offer a training program for locksmiths who would like to offer this service to stop the plethora of commercial vehicle break-ins. The slam lock we use on our training course is the Garrison Slamlock. This is mechanical slam lock that works with the manufacturer's locking system to provide Maximum Security and a simple installation. It eliminates the requirement 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 an electronic catalytic lock Catalytic converters are essential to the vehicle's emissions control, but they also contain precious metals that make them attractive targets for thieves. Installing a catalytic converter lock is an inexpensive way to prevent theft by adding a physical barrier and an aesthetic deterrent. This small investment can save you from the expense of a replacement and the inconvenience of driving around in a non-operational car. There are many different kinds of catalytic converter locks that are available which range from simple cable locking devices to more sophisticated ones with sensors that detect heat or vibrations. These devices are all effective in preventing thieves regardless of their effectiveness. One of the most well-known solutions is a cable clamp device that fits over your converter catalyser. It features a mechanism to lock the cable to ensure it stays in place. Amazon has a wide selection of these devices that can be put in use on virtually any vehicle. Some even have an orange-colored coating to make the catalytic converter stand out as well as others made of stainless steel for greater cut resistance. Another option is to get your catalytic converter engraved with your car identification number. This will allow authorities to locate the owner of the component or scrap dealers. It also acts as a deterrent against theft. Finally, you can also paint your catalytic converter fluorescent to make it visible. van security systems won't stop thieves completely however it could deter them from attempting to take it off and making a quick profits from its resale value. 5. Create a partition A partition for your van is a great choice for those concerned about the vulnerability 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 store things like First Aid kits, reflective kits, and fire extinguishers, while being able drive your vehicle safely. Moreover, a partition acts as a deterrent since it stops thieves from getting access to the rear of your vehicle. This is a very effective security measure for vans older than ten years that don't have locks for the fuel cap. They can be opened with ease using simple tools. A partition could also be fitted with motion detectors that track the movement inside and outside of your vehicle. They function similar to a house alarm system which means that any disturbance or intrusion will cause the alarm to sound and notify you of what's going on. In addition to these systems, some offer GPS tracking capabilities that let you track the location of your van in real-time. These systems can be wired into your van or battery-powered to provide flexibility and portability. They're also often available with a variety options and features that will meet your needs, such as an adjustable camera position as well as multiple camera capacity. A partition can be combined with security signs that are visible and audible alarms for added security. You can also purchase a hidden lockbox that is concealed inside your van. This allows you to secure store 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 attract new customers and increase the visibility of your company. It can also deter criminals because a well designed, eye-catching sign on your van will promote your business's name and warn criminals who might be tempted to steal your tools or valuables are inside. There are many ways to mark your vehicle, but the most popular is probably magnetic signs that can be removed easily without causing damage to your vehicle's paintwork. Vinyl wraps are more expensive but they provide some protection from scratches and last for a long time. Another alternative is to engage an experienced graphic designer or sign writer to design a unique look for your vehicle, which will look amazing – but be sure to check that they have experience of installing security upgrades. It's important to confirm that your van is Thatcham Category 2 certified. You can also fit an slam lock, a catalytic converter lock, or a partition to increase your van's security. Certain insurance companies will lower the cost of your insurance if you install additional security measures, and it's always worth shopping around to find the best price. Be sure to inform your insurance company of any changes you make to your vehicle. Taking the time to upgrade your van's security can aid in protecting your investment and ensure that it is secure at all times.