How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is an asset worth having, typically carrying expensive equipment and tools. Making your van secure is a top priority and there are a variety of methods you can employ to ward off thieves and keep your tools safe.
Slamlocks lock doors as soon as you close them. This is useful for couriers that do short drops, or who tend to forget to lock their van. Other options include a security stickers, covering or tinting the windows and fitting an instrument vault that is lockable.
Security locks
It is important to protect the contents of vans, as they are used both as a means of transportation as well as mobile storage. The proper van security measures can deter criminals and safeguard your belongings, allowing you to embark on your journeys with confidence.
Door locks are the primary line of defence, securing the van's doors and preventing access by unauthorized persons. Locks that are standard, usually installed by the manufacturer, provide an adequate level of security but are easily manipulated by a determined thief. Upgrade to more secure locks that can withstand cutting, drilling, or picking. This is an investment in security that will give you peace of mind.
When choosing van locks include the material and build quality and whether it's certified by Thatcham. This certification ensures that the lock is of high-quality which makes it harder to break or compromise. The slamlock is a further consideration. It automatically locks the doors of the loading area when it is closed and requires a special key to unlock. This is a great option for couriers who may not lock their vans between deliveries. Another alternative is the hook lock which provides additional security to the side and rear doors and prevents 'peel and steal attacks.
Regular cleaning and lubrication of your van locks are crucial to keep them functioning and ensure the reliability of the mechanism. This stops corrosion and rust and promotes smooth operation. Regular inspections help you detect any signs of wear or damage and fix them promptly, preventing security vulnerabilities from emerging.
Alongside improving the overall security of your vehicle, fitting the right security system can help you save money on insurance for your van. Many insurance companies recognize the importance of security systems that are robust with attractive terms and additional coverage options.
Slamlocks
One of the most effective ways to stop thieves is by strengthening the locks of your van. Installing slam or high-strength locks will make the van's door more secure and harder to break into. This is particularly crucial if your van is used to transport expensive equipment or cargo.
The lock is activated automatically once your door is shut. You don't have to press any keys to activate the mechanism. This means it's less likely to be compromised, making it ideal for couriers or tradespeople who are constantly in and out of their van all day long and might forget to lock up after each trip. It also helps to combat opportunistic thieves who simply open the vehicle's lock and take whatever they can, including the tools that you need to complete your job.
There are a variety of slamlocks that are available. Some come with additional security features like anti drill and anti pick technology or a steelplate that blocks drilling. Some are suited for a specific application like multidrop drivers, or those that carry a significant amount of valuable goods.
Deadlocks are a good alternative for those who require more security than a slamlock can provide. These locks function independently of the original locking mechanism that is supplied by the manufacturer and are only unlocked by the driver using the key supplied. Alternately, you can purchase a hook lock, which operates in the same way however, it provides extra security with a deadlocking hook bolt that is inserted into the opposing body section and is operated with the supplied key under complete control of the driver.
Dashboard cameras
Add a dash camera to your vehicle if you wish for it to be more secure and safe. These cameras can be used to help avoid collisions and accidents when driving. They can also prove your innocence in the case of an accident, or traffic violation. These cameras function by converting light incoming into electrical signals, and then convert these signals into digital data. They can be powered by the battery of your car or by a cigarette-lighter.
Many dashboard cameras on the market come with SD cards or flash drives for recording. These devices usually overwrite old footage to create space for new recordings, but they can be upgraded with memory cards that have high capacity in case you wish to store more video data. Certain dashboard cameras also have cloud storage features, which can eliminate the requirement for memory cards. These dashboard cameras are connected to a smartphone, Wi-Fi network or both, and can upload data at different intervals.
Wireless or hard-wired cameras are also important to take into consideration. van security locks are less vulnerable to interferences from cellular networks and other sources. They are also more durable, and some models can stand up to the elements.
Some vans are equipped with dual dash cameras that record video from the front and back of the vehicle. This is useful when you need to reverse in tight spaces or when parked. Some cameras come with night vision which can brighten the images in low light conditions and increase visibility. Many van owners have added this feature to the system. Certain dashboard cameras can be remotely monitored and this is an immense benefit for van owners who spend long periods away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life is becoming increasingly popular with those who like to travel and explore, but it's not without risks. The people who live in vehicles are usually at risk of theft. Thieves could target the vehicle and its contents. Alarm systems are among the best ways to secure your van and its contents. Alarm systems can be linked with your keypad, so you'll receive alerts if anyone gets into your vehicle. They're also great for reducing insurance costs, which could save you a fortune over the life of your van.
A good alarm system has a base, keypad, and entry sensors to guard against door peal. Some alarms even have an inbuilt motion sensor that will detect the presence of movement inside your vehicle and send an alert to your mobile. This is a great way to deter any potential thieves, and it can even aid in identifying the criminal before they do.
Adding deadlocks to all of your doors is an excellent method to ensure the security of your van. These locks require a key to operate and are more difficult to alter than standard locks. security locks for van doors is to purchase a lock that is capable of being operated using an app for smartphones, so you can monitor your van while away.
A lot of van alarms come with 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 thief who is determined to taking the entire engine. A better measure is to install an engine tracker with low power that will stop the engine from running and sends you the location of your vehicle when it's being moved.
Insurance
Vans are a vital source for many businesses and securing their contents is of paramount importance. Not only does a robust van security system give peace of mind, but it also helps reduce insurance costs as insurance companies take van owners' security measures into account when calculating premiums.
Your driving history, as well as the model, make, and year of your vehicle will also impact your insurance rate. The area in which you reside and work will also affect your rates, since higher crime rates could cause higher rates. Insurance companies will also take into consideration the use of your vehicle because commercial vehicles are usually more expensive to cover.
If you're thinking of making major modifications to your van, it's important to consult with your insurance company prior to doing so since this could have an impact on the price of your policy. Additionally, adding accessories to your vehicle that aren't included in the standard can increase the cost of your insurance. For instance, a Thatcham Category 2 approved dashboard camera is a great way to deter thieves, since it makes them think twice before attempting to gain entry into your vehicle.
Another essential element of van life is insurance to protect the equipment and tools you keep in your vehicle in the event of theft. You can get comprehensive physical damage protection as well as roadside assistance plans to cover breakdowns and other emergencies that occur while you're out on the road.
When comparing insurance policies, it's important to remember that the cheapest policy isn't always the most effective. Compare the coverage limits, deductibles, and other benefits to choose the right policy for you. It's worthwhile to consider gap insurance in addition to comprehensive insurance. This can pay the difference between the van's cash value and any outstanding amount on your loan if your van is totalled.