How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is a valuable asset, often carrying expensive equipment and tools. It is crucial to make your van as secure as you can. There are many ways to do this.
Slamlocks lock doors right after you shut them. This is useful for couriers who make frequent drops or are prone forgetting to lock their van. Other options include security stickers, covering or tinting windows and fitting an instrument vault that is lockable.
Security locks
With the increasing number of vans utilized as a means of transport as well as storage units that can be moved around, it is vital to secure their contents from theft. The right van security measures can deter criminals as well as protect your items, allowing you take your trip with confidence.
The van's door locks are the first line in defence. They secure the doors and block unauthorized entry. Standard locks, which are usually installed by the manufacturer, provide an adequate level of security but are easily manipulated by determined thieves. Upgrade to more secure locks that resist cutting, drilling, or picking. This is a wise investment in security that will give you peace of mind.
When choosing a van lock include the material and the build quality, as well as whether it's certified by Thatcham. This ensures that the lock is of high-quality and is more difficult to compromise. Other important factors to consider include the slamlock system that automatically locks load area doors after closure and requires keys to open the door and close them. The Key Lab is great for couriers who might forget to lock their van between deliveries. The hook lock is a different option that strengthens the doors on the rear and side to stop 'peel-and-steal' attack.
Regularly cleaning and lubricating your van locks is essential to maintain functionality and ensure the reliability of the mechanism. This stops corrosion and rust and ensures smooth operation. Regular inspections let you detect any signs of wear or damage and fix these issues promptly, thus preventing security vulnerabilities from emerging.
Installing the best security system can save you money on van insurance. Many insurance companies recognize the importance of security systems that are robust, offering favourable terms and additional coverage options.
Slamlocks
A stronger lock for your van is one of the best ways to deter robbers. By installing high-strength or slam locks the doors of your van will be more secure and difficult to break into. This is especially crucial if your van is used to transport expensive cargo or tools.
The lock is activated automatically once your door is closed. You don't have to press any keys to activate the mechanism. It's less likely to be tampered, which makes it perfect for courier drivers and tradespeople who work out of their vans throughout the day. They may not remember to lock it after each trip. It also helps combat the issue of opportunistic theft that occurs when thieves unlock your vehicle's lock and then take off with whatever they can grab that includes the tools needed for your job.
There are a number of different types of slam locks available and some of them come with additional security features, for instance anti-drill and anti-pick technology or a steel plate that blocks drilling attacks. Other locks are suitable for specific purposes such as multidrop drivers or those that carry a significant amount of valuable goods.
Deadlocks are an option for those who need more security than is offered by a slamlock. They operate in a different manner from the original locking mechanism of the manufacturer and can only be opened with a key that is supplied under full control of the driver. You can also purchase a hook lock, which operates in the same way but provides additional security with deadlocking hook bolts that engages into an opposing body part and operates with the key supplied under full control of the driver.
Dashboard cameras
If you're looking to make your van more secure and secure think about adding a dash camera. These cameras can be used to prevent collisions and accidents when driving. They can also prove your innocence in the case of an accident, or traffic infraction. These cameras work by converting light that is incoming into electrical signals and converting the signals into digital information. They can be powered via the battery of your car or by the cigarette lighter.
A majority of the dashboard cameras available on the market include SD cards or flash drives to save recordings. These devices can overwrite old footage in order to allow for new recordings. However they can be upgraded to accept larger memory cards when more video data is required. Some dashboard cams also have cloud storage features, which eliminate the need for memory cards. These dashboard cameras are connected to a smartphone, Wi-Fi network, or both and upload data at various intervals.
Hard-wired or wireless cameras are also important to consider. Hardwired models are less prone to interference from cellular networks or other sources. They are also more durable, and some are able to endure the elements.
Some vans have dual dash cams. They can record footage from both the rear and front of the vehicle. This is helpful when reverses in tight spaces or when in a parking spot. Some cameras feature night vision, which can enhance the images in low light conditions and increase visibility. Many van owners opt to add this feature to their systems. Some dashboard cams can be remotely monitored, which is an immense benefit for van owners who spend long periods away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life has become increasingly popular for those who are avid travelers and want to explore - but it's not without its risks. People who live in vehicles are often susceptible to theft. Thieves can attack the vehicle and its contents. Alarm systems are one of the best ways to protect your vehicle and its contents. Alarm systems can be linked with your keypad, meaning you'll receive notifications if anyone is able to break into your vehicle. These systems can also help reduce the cost of insurance. This could save you thousands of dollars over the course of your vehicle.
A good alarm system will come with a base station, keypads, and entry sensors that guard against door peal. Some alarms even have an inbuilt motion sensor that can detect movement inside your van and alert your mobile. This is a great way to deter potential thieves and help you catch thieves before they do.
Install deadlocks on your van's doors to ensure it's secure. They require keys and are more difficult to manipulate than regular locks. A good option is to purchase a lock that is equipped to operate with a smartphone app, so you can check the status of your van when you're away.
A lot of van alarms come with an engine immobilizer that shuts off the motor of your vehicle if you use the wrong key to start it. This is a great precaution to take, but it won't stop a thief determined to taking the entire engine. It is best to employ a low-power tracking device which will stop the engine from starting and will notify you of the position of your vehicle once it is moved.
Insurance
Vans are a crucial source for many businesses and the security of their contents is a top concern. A van security system will give peace of mind and reduce insurance costs. Insurance companies consider the security measures taken by van owners when calculating their premiums.
The year, make, and model of your van will affect your insurance rates and your driving record. The area in which you reside and work will also affect your rates, because higher crime rates could cause higher rates. Insurance companies may also take into account the use of your van since commercial vehicles are usually more expensive to insure.
Check with your insurance provider prior to making any major van mods. This could impact the cost of your insurance. The cost of your insurance will also increase when you add any additional features that aren't part of the standard vehicle. For instance an Thatcham Category 2 approved dashboard camera is a great way to discourage thieves, since it makes them think twice before attempting to gain entry into your vehicle.
Another important aspect of van life is insurance that covers the tools and equipment that you keep in your vehicle in the event that they are stolen. You can purchase comprehensive physical damage coverage and roadside service plans that cover breakdowns as well as other emergencies.
When comparing insurance policies it's important to keep in mind that the cheapest policy isn't necessarily the best. Compare the limits of coverage as well as deductibles and other benefits to find the right policy for you. It's worth considering gap coverage in addition to comprehensive insurance. This can pay the difference between the value of the van's cash and any outstanding amount on your loan in the event of a total loss to your vehicle.