How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is an asset that can carry expensive equipment and tools. Security for your van is an absolute priority and there are numerous ways to deter thieves and keep your tools safe.
Slamlocks lock doors as soon as they are closed they can be very useful for couriers who do short drops or are prone to not locking the van. Other options include a security sticker covering or tinting the windows, and installing a lockable tools vault.
Security locks
With so many vans being used as both a mode of transportation as well as a mobile storage unit it is essential to secure their contents from theft. The right van security measures will deter criminals while protecting your possessions. This allows you to travel in peace.
Door locks are the initial line of defense, protecting the doors of the van and preventing access by unauthorized persons. The standard locks are usually pre-installed and provide basic security but they can be easily smashed. Upgrading to more advanced security locks that are impervious to cutting, drilling, and picking is an investment in security.
When choosing a van lock include the material and the build quality, as well as whether it's Thatcham-approved. This certification ensures that the lock is of high-quality, making it more difficult to break or compromise. The slamlock is a further consideration. It automatically locks the doors of the loading area when it closes and requires a special key to unlock. This is perfect for couriers that may overlook locking their vans during deliveries. Another alternative is the hook lock, that provides reinforcement to doors on the rear and side and prevents 'peel and steal' attacks.
It is essential to clean and lubricate your van locks in order to ensure their function and the strength of the mechanism. This will prevent rust and corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Regular inspections allow you to spot indications of wear and damage, and fix them immediately. This will prevent security vulnerabilities from developing.
In addition to improving the overall security of your vehicle, installing the right security systems will help you save money on insurance for your van. Many insurance companies recognize the importance of strong security solutions providing favorable terms and additional coverage options.
Slamlocks
One of the most effective ways to stop thieves is by strengthening the locks on your van. By installing high-strength or slam locks, your van's doors will be more secure and less difficult to break into. This is especially important if you use your van to transport expensive equipment or valuable cargo.
The lock is activated automatically once your door is closed. You don't have to press any keys to activate the mechanism. This means it's much less likely to be compromised which makes it ideal for couriers or tradespeople who are constantly in and out of their van all day and may forget to lock up after each trip. It also helps combat the problem of opportunistic theft, where thieves simply open the lock on your vehicle and take off with anything they can get their hands on - which often includes the tools you require to do your job.
There are many different types of slamlocks available. Some come with additional security features like anti-drill and anti-pick technology, or a steelplate which stops drilling. Some are suited for a specific application, such as multidrop drivers, or those that carry a large volume of valuable goods.
If you're looking for more security than a standard lock that slams can provide the option of deadlocks. They function independently of the locking mechanism used by the manufacturer and can only be unlocked by a key supplied with full control by the driver. Alternately, van security door lock can purchase a hook lock that operates exactly the same way, however, it provides extra security with a deadlocking hook bolt that engages into an opposing body section and is operated with the key supplied under full control of the driver.
Dashboard cameras
If you're looking to make your van more secure and safe, consider adding a dash cam. These cameras can be used to help avoid collisions and accidents while driving. They can also demonstrate your innocence in the event of an accident or traffic violation. These cameras function by converting light that is incoming into electrical signals and then convert the signals into digital information. They can be powered via the battery of your vehicle or by the cigarette lighter.
A lot of dashboard cameras on the market include SD cards or flash drives to record. These devices overwrite old footage in order to allow for new videos. However they can be upgraded to support larger memory cards when more video data is required. Some dashboard cameras offer cloud storage, removing the need for memory card storage. These types of dashboard cams connect to the Wi-Fi or smartphone network and upload their data at varying intervals.
Another feature to consider is whether the camera is wireless or hard wired. Hardwired models are less prone to interference from cellular networks or other sources. They are also more durable and some models can stand up to 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 reverse in tight spaces, or while in a parking spot. Some cameras have night vision that can make images appear brighter in low-light conditions and improve visibility for drivers. Many van owners opt to add this feature to their systems. Certain dashboard cameras can be remotely monitored. This can be an excellent benefit for van dwellers that are often away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life is becoming increasingly popular among those who love exploring and travelling However, it is not without dangers. People who live in their cars are frequently at risk of thieves who could target their vehicle and its contents. There are a variety of ways to protect your vehicle and its cargo however, one of the most effective is an alarm system. These alarm systems can be incorporated with your keypad, meaning you'll be notified if someone gets into your vehicle. They also help reduce insurance premiums, which can save you a fortune over the life of your vehicle.
A good alarm system will have an alarm base station, keypad and entry sensors that protect against door peal. Some even come with a built-in motion sensor that can detect movement inside your van and alert your phone. This is a great deterrent to any potential thieves and can aid in identifying the criminal before they do.
Adding deadlocks to all of your doors is another great method to ensure the security of your van. These locks require the use of a key and are more difficult to manipulate than conventional locks. There are locks that operate using a smartphone app. This will allow you to monitor your vehicle while you're away.
Many van alarms also come with an engine immobilizer that disables the vehicle's motor in the event that you use the wrong key to start it. This is a good measure to take, but it won't stop a thief who is determined from taking the entire engine. A better measure is to install an engine tracker with low power that stops the engine from starting, and will send you your vehicle's location when it's being moved.
Insurance
For many businesses their vans are crucial resources, and protecting their contents is a top priority. A van security system can provide peace of mind and lower the cost of insurance. Insurance companies consider the security measures employed by van owners when calculating their premiums.
Your driving record, as well as the make, model and year of your vehicle will also impact the rate of insurance you pay. The area in which you reside and work will affect your rates too, because higher crime rates could cause higher rates. Insurance companies may also take into account the use of your vehicle because commercial vehicles are typically more expensive to insure.
If you're thinking of making major van modifications it's essential to talk with your insurance provider prior to making any changes because it could impact on the policy price. The cost of insurance may also increase when you add any additional features that aren't covered by the standard vehicle. For instance, a Thatcham Category 2 approved dashboard camera is a simple way to discourage thieves, because it can make them think twice about trying to break into your van.
Insurance is a crucial aspect of the van's life. It protects the tools and other equipment you keep inside your van in the event they are stolen. You can purchase 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 keep in mind that the cheapest option isn't always the most effective. Compare the coverage limits and deductibles as well as other benefits to choose the best policy for your needs. In addition to comprehensive coverage, it's also worth considering gap insurance as this can pay the difference between your vehicle's actual cash value and the remaining balance on your loan if it is totalled.