The humble van is the backbone of British trade and industry. From delivery vehicle to mobile workspace, it’s a vital tool for millions of businesses and self-employed professionals.
Unfortunately, it’s also a prime target for criminals. Of the 2.3 million UK tradespeople, an alarming 4 in 10 have experienced tool theft firsthand, resulting in thousands of pounds in losses, cancelled jobs, and untold distress. Although there is no way to guarantee you won’t fall victim to the rising van crime epidemic, there are practical steps you can take to reduce risk. Here are five essential van security tips to help protect your vehicle, tools, and livelihood.
1 – Adopt Good Security Habits
Career criminals are quick to identify weakness or exploit an opportunity, so don’t make it easy for them. It may seem an obvious place to start but ALWAYS lock and secure your vehicle, especially the load area.
Modern vans come equipped with a number of security features, but they’re only effective if used correctly — complacency undermines even the best systems.
Of course, it is not just the load area that is attractive to thieves, the vehicle itself is vulnerable – a staggering 723,000 vehicles were stolen in the UK in 2024. Never leave your keys on display or within easy reach at home — particularly near doors or windows where scanners or relay devices can capture the signal; Consider using signal blocking pouches, which provide another layer of protection to safeguard against modern theft techniques.
Staying vigilant with simple habits can significantly reduce your exposure to crime.
2 – Upgrade Van Locks & Security
Van theft techniques used by criminals are constantly evolving, allowing them to bypass manufacturers security systems and exploit vehicle specific vulnerabilities. Criminals actively look for easy targets and vans with little or no visible security enhancements are often first in line.
Investing in upgraded locks and additional security is a shrewd way to defend your van; Prioritise enhancements that protect your load area, such as BondLock — tools, equipment, and cargo are prime targets.
However, it’s important to choose the right security for your vehicle and operation. Slamlocks are popular among couriers and multi-drop drivers, providing automatic locking — but they don’t necessarily improve overall van security. Consider higher security alternatives like BondLock, designed to resist common and known methods of attack.
The key is to match your security upgrades to your specific vehicle, industry, and working practices – to discuss your own requirements contact Maple.
3 – Mark Your Tools & Equipment
Tool theft continues to rise at an alarming rate, with reports revealing a staggering 70% increase in thefts from vans across London alone, between 2021 and 2024.
While the proposed Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill, scheduled for its second reading in July, aims to introduce tougher penalties for offenders, it will take time for any legal changes to make an impact.
Tradespeople must take proactive steps to protect their tools — Marking your equipment is a proven deterrent. Visible identification makes stolen items harder to resell, reducing their appeal to criminals and handlers, whilst engraving and forensic marking can also improve the chances of recovery if items are stolen.
Additionally, ensure you have appropriate insurance in place; according to a survey by ‘On The Tools’ 83% of tradespeople don’t have insurance in place that covers tool theft.
4 – Park Securely & Defensively
Your van is never more vulnerable than when parked — especially overnight or in isolated areas.
Safe parking makes a huge difference:
- Choose secure, well-lit, and busy locations whenever possible.
- Avoid quiet streets, dimly lit areas, or secluded spots that provide cover for criminals.
- If conditions allow park defensively by backing up to walls or other obstructions to block or restrict access to doors.
- At home or on-site, maximise the use of CCTV, security lighting, or even video doorbells for added protection.
- Before walking away, complete a final check – Ensure doors and windows are secured, security systems are engaged and remove any valuables from sight
5 – Don’t Take Unnecessary Risks
Take time to protect your vehicle and its contents – never give thieves an easy opportunity.
Do not be tempted to leave your vehicle in a vulnerable condition, even if you are only momentarily away from the vehicle e.g. leaving the engine running whilst de-icing windows or making a quick delivery. Never leave an idling vehicle unattended (which in most cases is illegal) or a loaded vehicle with doors unlocked.
Where possible, remove tools and equipment from your vehicle overnight – If it’s simply not practical, consider removing the most important or valuable items. As van crime continues to spike, the inconvenience of removing equipment pales in comparison to the financial loss and disruption caused by theft.
A few extra minutes protecting your van can save you thousands and countless headaches.
Looking to Increase Van Security?
Maple have recently launched BondLock, an innovative high security van lock. Want to see the system for yourself? Then request your demonstration NOW at a time and place of your convenience by completing the booking form.
