How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is an asset that can be used to transport expensive equipment and tools. The security of your van is a top priority and there are a variety of strategies you can use to stop thieves from entering your van and keep your tools safe.
Slamlocks locks doors once they are closed they can be very beneficial for couriers who make frequent short trips or are prone to not locking the van. Other upgrades include security stickers, covering or tinting the windows and fitting a lockable tools vault.
Security locks
It is essential to safeguard the contents of vans since they are used as a vehicle for transportation and mobile storage. The right van security measures can deter criminals and safeguard your items, allowing you embark on your journeys with confidence.
Door locks are the first security measure, securing the doors of your van and preventing access by unauthorized persons. Standard locks, which are usually installed by the manufacturer, provide a basic level of protection however they are easily manipulated by a few determined thieves. Upgrade to more secure locks that are resistant to cutting, drilling, and picking is an investment in peace of mind.
When you are choosing a vanlock you should consider the materials, the build quality and if it is certified by Thatcham. This certification ensures that the lock is of high-quality, making it more difficult to break or compromise. The slamlock is a further aspect to consider. It locks automatically the doors of the loading area when it is closed and requires a key to unlock. This is perfect for couriers that may not lock their vans during deliveries. The hook lock is another option, which reinforces doors on the rear and side to stop 'peel-and-steal' attack.
It is crucial to regularly clean and lubricate your van locks in order to ensure their function and the integrity of the mechanism. This will stop rust and corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Regular inspections let you identify any signs of wear or damage and address them immediately, thereby preventing security vulnerabilities from emerging.
Installing the right security system can help you save money on insurance for your van. Many insurers offer favourable terms in exchange for robust security solutions.
Slamlocks
One of the most effective methods to deter thieves is by strengthening your van's locks. Installing high-strength locks or slam locks will make the door of your van more secure and less difficult to break into. This is especially crucial if your van is used to transport expensive cargo or tools.
The slam lock is activated automatically as soon as the door is shut, meaning you don't need to press a key to activate the mechanism. It's less likely to be compromised which makes it ideal for courier drivers and tradespeople that are in and out of their vans throughout the day. They may forget to lock it up at the end of each journey. It also helps to combat the petty thieves who just open the lock on your vehicle and steal whatever they can get, which includes the tools you need to complete your job.
There are many different types of slam locks, with some offering extra security features, for instance anti-drill technology and anti-pick technology, or a steel plate that prevents drilling attacks. Some are designed for specific uses, like the ones used by multidrop drivers and for those who transport lots of valuable items.
For those who require more security than a lock that slams can provide the option of deadlocks. They operate in a different manner from the manufacturer's original locking mechanism and can only be removed with a key that is supplied with full control by the driver. You could also invest in a hooklock, which works in the same manner but adds additional security by using a deadlocking bolt that engages in a different section of the body and is operated with the supplied key.
Dashboard cameras
If you're looking to make your vehicle more secure and safe think about adding a dash cam. These cameras can help you avoid accidents and collisions when driving, and can also be useful in proving your innocence in the event of an accident or traffic violation. These cameras function by converting light signals into electrical signals and convert these signals into digital data. They can be powered by the battery of your car or by a cigarette-lighter.
Many dashboard cameras available on the market include SD cards or flash drives for recording. These devices erase old footage in order to allow for new recordings. However, they can be upgraded to support larger memory cards if additional video data is needed. Some dashboard cameras offer cloud storage, removing the need for memory card storage. These dashboard cams connect to a smartphone, a Wi-Fi network or both and upload data at various intervals.
Another feature to take into consideration is whether the camera is wired or wireless. Hardwired models are less prone to interference from cell networks and other sources. They are also more durable, and some models are able to withstand weather.
Some vans have dual dash cams that can capture footage from both the front and rear of the vehicle. This can be useful when you have to reverse into tight spaces or while parked. Some cameras feature night vision which can brighten the images in low light conditions and enhance visibility. Many van owners choose to add this feature to their systems. Some dashboard cameras can be remotely monitored. This can be an enormous benefit for van owners who spend long periods away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life is becoming increasingly popular with those who enjoy exploring and travelling However, it is not without risks. People who live in their cars are frequently at risk of thieves who could attack their vehicle and its contents. There are a variety of ways to secure your van and its contents, but one of the most effective is an alarm system. Alarm systems can be linked with your keypad, which means you'll be notified if someone breaks into your vehicle. They also help reduce insurance premiums, which can save you money over the life of your van.
A good alarm system will have the base station, a keypads, and entry sensors to guard against door peal. Some even come with a built-in motion sensor that detects movement inside your van and send an alert to your phone. This is a great deterrent to any potential thieves and can assist you in identifying a criminal before they strike.
The addition of deadlocks to all your doors is an excellent method to keep your van secure. These locks require the use of a key and are more difficult to manipulate than conventional locks. You can also get locks that operate with a smartphone application. This allows you to monitor your van while you are away.
Many van alarms also come with an engine immobilizer that disables your vehicle's motor if you use the wrong key to start it. This is a great precaution to take, but it won't stop a determined thief from taking away the entire engine. It is safer to employ a low-power tracking device which will stop the engine from starting and will notify you of the location of your vehicle when it is moved.
Insurance
For many companies their vans are crucial assets and securing their contents is a top priority. A van security system can provide peace of mind and lower insurance costs. Insurance companies take into consideration the security measures taken by van owners when calculating premiums.
Your driving record, along with the make, model and year of your vehicle will also impact your insurance rate. Your rates could also be affected by the location in which you reside and work since higher crime rates could result in an increase in premiums. Insurance companies may also take into account the possibility of using your van because commercial vehicles are generally more expensive to insure.
If you're thinking of making major van modifications, it's important to consult with your insurer beforehand since it could have an impact on the price of your policy. Also, adding any accessories to your vehicle that aren't included in the standard can increase the cost of your insurance. A Thatcham Category 2 certified dash camera is a simple method to deter thieves, as they will think twice before trying to break in.
Insurance is another essential part of van life. It protects the tools and equipment that you keep in your van in the event that they are stolen. You can purchase comprehensive physical damage insurance as well as roadside service plans that cover breakdowns and other emergencies.
When comparing insurance policies, it's important to remember that the most affordable option isn't always the best. Compare the limits of coverage as well as deductibles and other benefits to choose the best policy for your needs. It is worth looking into gap insurance here in addition to comprehensive insurance. This will cover the difference between your value of the van's cash and any outstanding amount on your loan if your van is totalled.