How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is a valuable asset that can transport expensive equipment and tools. Security for your van is an absolute priority and there are numerous methods you can employ to deter thieves and keep your tools safe.
Slamlocks lock doors immediately after they are closed. This is useful for couriers that do short drop-offs, or are prone forgetting to lock their van. Other options include security stickers, covering or tinting windows and fitting the tool vault with a lockable feature.
Security locks
With so many vans being used as a method of transport as well as storage space mobile it is essential to secure their contents from theft. The right van security measures can deter criminals and safeguard your items, allowing you take your trip with confidence.
The van's door locks are the first line of defense. They protect the doors and block unauthorised entry. Standard locks, often pre-installed by the manufacturer, provide an adequate level of security but can be easily bypassed by a determined thief. Upgrade to advanced security locks that resist cutting or drilling. This is a wise investment in security that will give you peace of mind.
When you are choosing a vanlock you should consider the material, build quality and if it is certified by Thatcham. This means that the lock is of high-quality which makes it harder to break or compromise. Other important factors to consider include the slamlock system that automatically locks doors for loading area after closure and requires a key to open; this is perfect for couriers who may forget to lock their van between deliveries. The hook lock is a different 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 also crucial to keep them functioning and ensure the strength of the mechanism. This helps prevent corrosion and rust and helps ensure smooth operation. Regular inspections allow you to identify any signs of wear or damage and fix them promptly, to prevent security vulnerabilities from arising.
In addition to enhancing the overall security of your vehicle, installing the right security systems can help you save money on your van insurance. Many insurers recognise the value of robust security solutions, offering favourable terms and additional coverage options in return.
Slamlocks
One of the most effective methods to deter thieves is strengthening the locks of your van. By installing high-strength or slam locks the doors of your van will be more secure and harder to break into. This is especially crucial if you plan to use your van to transport expensive equipment or valuable cargo.
A slam lock works automatically as soon as your door is shut which means you don't have to press a key to trigger the mechanism. This means that it's less likely to be tampered with, making it ideal for courier drivers or tradespeople who are in and out of their van throughout the day long and not lock the door after each journey. It also assists in fighting opportunistic thieves who simply open the door of your vehicle and take what they can get, which includes the tools you require to complete your job.
There are a number of different types of slam locks that are available and some of them come with additional security features, such as anti-drill technology and anti-pick technology, or a steel plate that prevents drilling attacks. Certain models are specifically designed for applications, such as those used by multidrop drivers and those who transport lots of valuable items.
Deadlocks are a great option for those who need more security than a slamlock can provide. They operate independently from the locking mechanism that is supplied by the manufacturer and are only be unlocked by the driver using the supplied key. You can also purchase hooklocks, which function similar to a hooklock, but adds additional security by using deadlocking bolts that lock in a different section of the body and is operated with the key supplied.
Dashboard cameras
If you want to make your car more secure and secure think about adding a dash camera. These cameras can be used to prevent accidents and collisions when driving. They can also show your innocence in the case of an accident, or traffic violation. They work by converting incoming light into electrical signals, and they then convert these signals into digital data. They can be powered by your vehicle's battery or by the lighter for your cigarette.
Many dashboard cameras on the market include SD cards or flash drives to record. These devices overwrite old footage to allow for new recordings. However they can be upgraded to accept larger memory cards if more video data is needed. Certain dashboard cameras come with cloud storage, eliminating the requirement for memory card storage. These types of dashboard cams connect to either a Wi-Fi or smartphone and upload their data at different intervals.
Wireless or hard-wired cameras are also worth considering. Hardwired cameras are less vulnerable to interferences from cell networks and other sources. They are also more durable and some models can withstand the elements.
Some vans have dual dash cameras that can record video from the front and back of the vehicle. This is useful when you need to reverse in tight spaces or while parked. Some cameras come with night vision that can enhance images in low light conditions and enhance visibility for drivers. Many van owners add this feature to the system. Certain dashboard cameras are able to be remotely monitored. This is a great benefit for van dwellers that are often away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life has become increasingly popular for those who like to travel and explore, but it's not without risks. People who reside in vehicles are frequently at risk of being robbed. Thieves can take aim at the vehicle and its contents. Alarm systems are among the best ways to safeguard your vehicle and its contents. These systems can be integrated with your keypad, which means you'll receive notifications if anyone is able to break into your vehicle. These systems can also help reduce the cost of insurance. This can save you thousands of dollars over the course of your van.
A good alarm system will have a base station, keypads and entry sensors that guard against door peal. Some even come with a built in motion sensor that detects the presence of movement inside your vehicle and send an alert to your mobile. This can be a great way to deter potential thieves and even help you catch the thieves before they get to you.
Adding deadlocks to all of your doors is another great method to ensure the security of your van. They require a key for operation, and they're much harder to tamper with than normal locks. A good option is to get some that are equipped to operate with a smartphone app, so you can check the status of your vehicle while you're 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 great precaution, but it will not stop a thief who is determined to who would take the entire engine. It is safer to employ a low-power tracking device that stops the engine from running and will notify you of the location of your vehicle when it is relocated.
Insurance
Vans are a vital source for many businesses and protecting their contents is of paramount importance. A van security system can give peace of mind and reduce the cost of insurance. Insurers take into account the security measures taken by van owners when calculating their premiums.
The year, model, and make of your vehicle will affect the cost of insurance as will your driving record. Your rates are also affected by the location in which you reside and work, because higher crime rates can lead to an increase in rates. Insurance companies also take the use of your van into consideration as commercial vehicles typically cost more to insure than personal ones.
Check with your insurance provider prior to making any major modifications to your van. This could affect the price of your policy. The cost of your insurance may also increase if you add website any extras that aren't included in the standard vehicle. A Thatcham Category 2 -approved dash camera is a simple way to deter thieves since they'll be cautious before attempting to break in.
Another crucial aspect of van life is insurance to cover the tools and equipment you keep in your vehicle in case they are stolen. You can get complete physical damage protection and roadside assistance plans that will take care of breakdowns and other emergencies when you're driving.
When comparing insurance policies it's important to remember that the cheapest policy isn't always the best. Compare the coverage limits, deductibles, and other benefits to find the best policy for your needs. It's worth considering gap insurance in addition to comprehensive insurance. This can pay the difference between the van's cash value and any outstanding balance on your loan in the event of a total loss to your vehicle.