How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is an asset worth having, typically carrying expensive tools and equipment. Security for your van is an absolute priority and there are a variety of ways to ward off thieves and keep your tools safe.
Slamlocks locks doors once you shut them, which can be useful for couriers who do short drops or are prone to forgetting to lock the van. Other options include security stickers covering windows or tinting them and fitting a lockable tool vault.
Security locks
It is crucial to secure the contents of vans since they are used as a means of transportation and mobile storage. The right van security measures will deter criminals and protect your items, allowing you embark on your journeys with confidence.
The door locks of the van are the first line in defence. They protect the doors and block unauthorised entry. Standard locks, which are usually installed by the manufacturer, provide the most basic protection however they are easily manipulated by determined thieves. Upgrade to advanced security locks that can withstand cutting or drilling. This is an investment in security that will give you peace of mind.
When choosing a vanlock, you must consider the materials, the build quality and if it is certified by Thatcham. This ensures that the lock is high-quality and more difficult to alter. Other important aspects to consider are the slamlock system, which automatically locks doors for loading area when closed and requires keys to open the door which is ideal for couriers who not lock their vans between deliveries. The hook lock is another option that can be used to secure the doors on the rear and side to prevent 'peel-and-steal' attacks.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating your van locks is crucial to keep them functioning and ensure the integrity of the mechanism. This prevents rust and corrosion and helps ensure smooth operation. Regular inspections will allow you to identify signs of wear and damage and fix them immediately. This will prevent security weaknesses from forming.
Alongside improving the overall security of your vehicle, fitting the right security system will help you save money on your van insurance. Many insurance companies are aware of robust security solutions providing favorable terms and additional coverage options.
Slamlocks
One of the most effective methods to stop thieves is by strengthening the locks on your van. By installing slam locks or high-strength locks, your van's doors will be more secure and difficult to break into. This is particularly important if you intend to use your van to transport expensive equipment or valuable cargo.
The lock is activated automatically once your door is closed. You don't need to press any keys to activate the mechanism. It's less likely to be damaged and is ideal for couriers and tradespeople who are in and out of their vans throughout the day. They may forget to lock it up after every journey. It also helps in battling criminals who can simply open the door of your vehicle and steal whatever they can, which includes the tools you require to do your job.
There are a variety of slamlocks to choose from. Some have additional security features, such as anti-drill and anti-pick technology or a steelplate that stops drilling. Certain locks are specifically designed for uses, like those used by multidrop drivers and for those who transport a lot of valuable items.
Deadlocks are a good option for those who need more protection than what an slamlock could provide. These operate independently from the manufacturer's original locking mechanism and can only be opened with a key that is supplied with full control by the driver. You can also buy hooklocks that function similar to a hooklock, but offers additional security through deadlocking bolts that are inserted in the opposite part of the body and is controlled by the key that comes with it.
Dashboard cameras
Include a dash camera into your vehicle if you wish for it to be more secure and safe. These cameras can be used to avoid collisions and accidents when driving. They can also demonstrate your innocence in the event of an accident or traffic infraction. They work by converting the incoming light into electrical signals and then they transform those signals into digital data. They can be powered by your car's battery, or the lighter for your cigarette.
van security locks on the market have SD cards or flash drive to record. These devices usually overwrite old footage to create space for new recordings, however they can be upgraded using memory cards with high capacity for those who want to save more video data. Certain dashboard cameras also have cloud storage capabilities that eliminate the need for memory cards. These dashboard cams connect to a smartphone, a Wi-Fi network, or both and upload data at various times.
Another aspect to be considered is whether the camera is wireless or hard wired. Hardwired models are less vulnerable to interference from cell networks and other sources. They are also more durable and some can endure the elements.
Some vans come with dual dash cameras that record video from both the front and back of the vehicle. This is useful when you have to reverse into tight spaces or while parked. Certain cameras come with night vision, which is able to make images appear brighter in low-light conditions and improve visibility for drivers. Many van owners include this feature to the system. Some dashboard cameras can be remotely monitored. This is an enormous benefit for van dwellers that spend long periods of time away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life is becoming more popular among those who love exploring and travelling however, it has its own risks. People who reside in vehicles are frequently at risk of being robbed. Thieves may attack the vehicle and its contents. There are many ways to protect your vehicle and its contents, but one of the most effective is an alarm system. These systems can be integrated with your keypad, which means you'll be notified if someone gets into your vehicle. These systems can also lower insurance premiums. This could save you thousands of dollars over the course of your vehicle.
A good alarm system includes a base, keypad, and entry sensors to guard against door peal. Some even have a built in motion sensor that will detect any movement in your vehicle and notify your mobile. This is a great method to deter thieves and even help you catch them before they strike.
The addition of deadlocks to all your doors is an excellent option to ensure your van is secure. These locks require keys and are more difficult to manipulate than regular locks. There are locks that operate with a smartphone application. This will allow you to check on your vehicle even when you're away.
Many van alarms are also equipped with an engine immobilizer which disables the engine of your vehicle in the event that the wrong key is used to start it. This is a great precaution to consider, but it will not stop a determined thief from removing the whole engine. It is best to employ a low-power tracking device that will stop the engine from starting and provide you with the location of your vehicle when it is relocated.
Insurance
For many businesses vans are essential assets and securing their contents is a top priority. Not only does a robust van security system give peace of mind, it can also lower insurance costs as insurance companies take the security measures of van owners into account when calculating premiums.
Your driving record, along with the model, make, and year of your van will also affect the rate of insurance you pay. The area where you live and work can affect your rates too, as higher crime rates can cause higher rates. Insurance companies will also take into consideration the use of your vehicle since commercial vehicles are usually more expensive to cover.
If you're thinking of making major van modifications it is important to speak with your insurer beforehand as it could have an impact on the policy price. The cost of your insurance will also increase if you add any extras that aren't included in the standard vehicle. A Thatcham Category 2 certified dash camera is an effective way to deter thieves since they'll be more cautious when trying to gain entry into.
Another essential element of van life is insurance to protect the tools and equipment that you keep in your vehicle, in case they are stolen. You can obtain comprehensive physical damage protection, as well as roadside assistance plans that take care of breakdowns and other emergencies when you're on the road.
When comparing insurance policies it's worth bearing in mind that the most affordable option isn't always the best. Compare the limits of coverage, deductibles, and other benefits to determine the right policy for you. It's worthwhile to consider gap coverage in addition to comprehensive insurance. This will cover the difference between your van's cash value and any outstanding balance on your loan if your van is totalled.