How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is an asset that can transport expensive equipment and tools. Security for your van should be a top priority, and there are many methods you can employ to deter thieves and keep your tools safe.
Slamlocks lock doors as soon as you shut them. This is beneficial for couriers who make frequent drops or tend to forget to lock their vans. Other options include a security stickers covering or tinting the windows, and installing an instrument vault that is lockable.
Security locks
With so many vans being utilized as a means of transportation and storage units that can be moved around it is crucial to protect their contents against theft. The proper van security measures will deter criminals and protect your possessions. This allows you to travel with peace of mind.
Door locks are the initial security measure, securing the van's doors and preventing access by unauthorized persons. Standard locks, often pre-installed by the manufacturer, offer an adequate level of security but can be easily bypassed by a determined thief. Upgrade to security locks that resist cutting, drilling, or picking. This is a wise investment to ensure your security.
Considerations when choosing van locks include the quality of the material and construction and whether it's Thatcham-approved. This means that the lock is of top quality and more difficult to compromise. Other important factors to consider include the slamlock lock system, which automatically locks doors for loading area upon closure and requires keys to open the door which is ideal for couriers who forget to lock their van between deliveries. The hook lock is a different option, which reinforces side and rear doors to stop 'peel-and-steal' attack.
It is important to regularly clean and lubricate your van locks in order to maintain their functionality and the integrity of the mechanism. This prevents rust and corrosion and ensures smooth operation. Regular inspections will allow you to identify the signs of wear and damage, and then address them promptly. This can prevent security weaknesses from forming.
Installing the right security system can save you money on insurance for your van. Many insurers recognise the value of robust security solutions with attractive terms and additional coverage options.
Slamlocks
The strengthening of your van's lock is among the best methods to ward off robbers. By installing slam locks or high-strength locks, your van's doors will be more secure and difficult to break into. This is especially important if you use your van to transport expensive tools or valuable cargo.
The slamlock activates automatically when your door is closed. You don't have 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 might forget to lock it up after each journey. It also assists in fighting the petty thieves who just open the vehicle's lock and take whatever they can, including the tools you require to complete your job.
There are a number of different types of slam locks available, with some offering extra security features, like anti-drill technology and anti-pick technology, or steel plates that block drilling attacks. Other locks are suitable for specific applications, such as multidrop drivers or those that carry a significant amount of valuable goods.
Deadlocks are a great option for those who need more protection than what a slamlock can provide. These locks operate independently from the locking mechanism that is supplied by the manufacturer and are only be unlocked by the driver using the key supplied. Alternately, you can purchase a hook lock that operates in the same way but provides additional security by using a deadlocking hook bolt that is inserted into the opposite body section and is operated using the key that comes with it under the full control of the driver.
Dashboard cameras
If you want to make your van more secure and safe think about adding a dash cam. These cameras can be used to prevent collisions and accidents while driving. They can also demonstrate your innocence in the case of an accident, or traffic violation. They work by converting the incoming light into electrical signals and then they convert those signals into digital data. They can be powered by the vehicle's battery, or an lighter for your cigarette.
Many of the dashboard cams available on the market have SD cards or flash drives to save recordings. These devices can overwrite old footage to allow room for new recordings. However, they can be upgraded to accept larger memory cards when more video data is needed. Some dashboard cameras also come with cloud storage features, which eliminate the requirement for memory cards. These kinds of dashboard cameras connect to a smartphone or Wi-Fi network and upload their data at various intervals.
Cameras that are hard-wired or wireless are also worth considering. Hardwired cameras are less prone to interferences from cell networks and other sources. They are also more durable and some are able to stand up to the elements.
Some vans come with dual dash cameras that record video from the front and back of the vehicle. This can be useful when you have to reverse into tight spaces or while in a parking space. Certain cameras come with night vision that can make images appear brighter in low-light conditions and improve visibility for drivers. Many van owners add this feature to the system. Certain dashboard cameras are able to be remotely monitored. This can be a great benefit for van owners who spend long periods away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life is getting increasingly popular among those who love exploring and traveling however, it has its own risks. People who live in their cars are frequently at risk of thieves who could target their vehicle and its contents. There are a number of ways to secure your van and its contents however, one of the most effective is an alarm system. security lock for van doors can be linked to your keypad so that you receive notifications in the event of a break-in. They also help reduce insurance premiums, which can save you money over the lifetime of your vehicle.
A good alarm system includes an alarm base, keypad and entry sensors to protect against door peal. Some even come with an inbuilt motion sensor that can detect the presence of movement inside your vehicle and notify your mobile. This can be a powerful deterrent for anyone who might be a target and could help you spot the criminal before they do.
Installing deadlocks on all of your doors is another great way to ensure your van is secure. These locks require the use of a key and are more difficult to operate than standard locks. A good option is to choose a lock capable of being operated using an app for smartphones, so you can check the status of your van when you're away.
Many van alarms also include an engine immobilizer which disables your vehicle's motor if you use the wrong key to start it. This is a good precaution, but it will not stop a determined thief taking the entire engine. Better to install a low-power tracker which will stop the engine from running and will notify you of your vehicle's location when it is removed.
Insurance
For many companies their vans are crucial assets and securing their contents is an important priority. A van security system can provide peace of mind as well as reduce the cost of insurance. Insurance companies take into consideration the security measures taken by van owners when calculating premiums.
Your driving record, as well as the make, model and year of your van will also impact the rate of insurance you pay. Your rates are also affected by the region in which you reside and work, because higher crime rates can result in an increase in premiums. Insurance companies may also take into account the use of your vehicle because commercial vehicles are usually more expensive to insure.
If you're planning to make any major changes to your van it is important to speak with your insurer beforehand because it could have an impact on the cost of your policy. Likewise, adding on any accessories to your vehicle that aren't standard will increase the price of your premium. A Thatcham Category 2 certified dash camera is an easy way to deter thieves since they'll be cautious before attempting to break into.
Insurance is another important aspect of life in a van. It protects the tools and equipment you keep inside your van in the event they are stolen. You can buy comprehensive physical damage insurance as well as roadside service plans that cover breakdowns as well as other emergencies.
When comparing insurance policies, it's important to remember that the cheapest option isn't always the most effective. Compare the limits of coverage, deductibles and other added benefits to determine the most suitable policy for your requirements. In addition to full coverage, it's worth considering gap insurance as it can cover the difference between your van's actual cash value and the remaining balance on your loan, if it's totaled.