How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is a valuable asset, often carrying expensive equipment and tools. It is essential to make your van as secure as possible. There are many ways to do this.
Slamlocks lock doors as soon as you shut them and are useful for couriers that make short drops or are prone to not locking the van. Other options include a security sticker, covering or tinting the windows and fitting an instrument vault that is lockable.
Security locks
With so many vans being used as a method of transportation and storage space mobile, it is vital to protect their contents against theft. The proper security measures for your van will deter criminals while protecting your belongings. This allows you to travel with peace of mind.
Door locks are the primary line of defense, protecting the doors of your van and preventing unauthorized access. Locks that are standard are usually installed and provide basic security, but they can be easily bypassed. Upgrading to more advanced security locks that are resistant to cutting, drilling, and picking is an investment in peace of mind.
Considerations when choosing a van lock include the material and the build quality, as well as whether it's approved by Thatcham. This certification ensures that the lock is of top quality which makes it harder to break or compromise. The slamlock is a further aspect to consider. It automatically locks the doors of the load area upon closing and requires a key to unlock. This is perfect for couriers who not lock their vans during deliveries. Hook locks are another option that can be used to secure the side and rear doors to guard against 'peel and steal' attacks.
Regular cleaning and lubrication of your van locks are essential to maintain functionality and ensure the integrity of the mechanism. This will stop corrosion and rust, and ensure smooth operation. Regular inspections allow you to spot the signs of wear and tear, and address them immediately. This will prevent security vulnerabilities from developing.
Installing the right security system can help you save money on van insurance. Many insurance companies offer favorable terms for the purchase of robust security solutions.
Slamlocks
One of the most effective ways to deter thieves is by strengthening your van's locks. Installing high-strength locks or slam locks will make your van's door more secure and harder to break into. This is particularly crucial if you plan to use your van to transport expensive equipment or other valuable cargo.
A slam lock works automatically as soon as the door is shut which means you don't have to press a button to activate the mechanism. This means it's much less likely to be compromised which makes it ideal for couriers and tradespeople who are in and out of their van all day long and might forget to lock up at the end of each trip. It also helps to combat the problem of opportunistic theft that occurs when thieves open the lock on your vehicle and then take off with whatever they can grab and often include the tools you need for your job.
There are a variety of slamlocks that are available. Some offer extra security features, such as anti-drill and anti-pick technology, or a steelplate that blocks drilling. Other locks are suitable for specific applications such as multidrop drivers, or those that carry a significant amount of high-value goods.
For those who require more security than a lock that slams can provide the option of deadlocks. These locks operate independently of the original locking mechanism from the manufacturer and can only unlocked by the driver using the supplied key. You can also buy hooklocks, which function similar to a hooklock, but offers additional security through a deadlocking bolt that engages in a different section of the body and is controlled by the key supplied.
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 while driving. They can also prove your innocence in the case of an accident, or traffic violation. They work by converting incoming light into electrical signals, and then convert those signals into digital data. They can be powered by the battery in your vehicle or by the cigarette lighter.
A majority of the dashboard cameras that are available have SD cards or flash drives to save recordings. These devices typically erase old footage to create space for new videos, but they can be upgraded with memory cards that have high capacity if you want to save more video data. Some dashboard cams also have cloud storage capabilities, which eliminate the need for memory cards. These types of dashboard cams connect to the Wi-Fi or smartphone network and upload their data at various intervals.
Another aspect to be considered is whether the camera is wireless or hard wired. Hardwired models are less vulnerable to interference from cellular networks or other sources. They are also more durable, and some models can withstand the weather.
Some vans are equipped with dual dash cams. They can record footage from both the rear and front of the vehicle. This can be helpful when you have to reverse into tight spaces or when parked. Certain cameras come with night vision that can make images appear brighter in low-light conditions and enhance visibility for the driver. Many van owners opt to add this feature to their systems. Certain dashboard cameras can be remotely monitored and this is an enormous benefit for van dwellers who spend long periods of time away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life is getting increasingly popular with those who enjoy exploring and traveling however, it has its own dangers. People who reside in vehicles are frequently at risk of being robbed. Thieves may attack the vehicle and its contents. Alarm systems are one of the best ways to safeguard your van and its contents. These alarm systems can be linked to your keypad, so you'll receive notifications in the event of a burglary. They also help reduce insurance premiums, which can save you a fortune over the lifetime of your vehicle.
A good alarm system includes an alarm base, keypad and entry sensors to protect against door peal. Some alarms even have a built in motion sensor that can detect movement inside your van and alert your phone. This can be a powerful deterrent for anyone who is a potential thief, and it can even assist you in identifying a criminal before they strike.
Installing deadlocks on all of your doors is an excellent option to keep your van secure. These are locks that require a key for operation and are much more difficult to break than regular locks. It is a good idea to purchase a lock that is capable of being operated using apps for smartphones, which means you can check on your vehicle while you're away.
A lot of van alarms come with an engine immobilizer that disables the motor of your vehicle if you use the wrong key to start it. This is a sensible step to take, but it won't stop a thief determined to taking the entire engine. It is better to use a low-power tracking device that stops the engine from running and provide you with the position of your vehicle once it is moved.
Insurance
Vans are a vital source for many businesses, and the security of their contents is of paramount importance. Not only will a well-constructed van security system give peace of mind, it also helps reduce cost of insurance since insurers take the security measures of van owners into account when calculating premiums.
The year, make, and model of your vehicle will affect the cost of insurance, as will your driving record. The area in which you reside and work will also impact your rates because higher crime rates could result in higher rates. Insurance companies will also take the use of your vehicle into account as commercial vehicles generally cost more to insure than personal ones.
If you're considering making any major changes to your van it is important to speak with your insurance provider prior to making any changes as it could have an impact on the policy price. Additionally, adding additional features 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 discourage thieves, since it makes them think twice about attempting to break into your van.
Another essential element 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 as well as roadside service plans that cover breakdowns as well as other emergencies.
When comparing insurance policies it's important to keep in mind that the most affordable option isn't necessarily the best. Compare van security hook locks and deductibles as well as other benefits to find the right policy for you. It's worth considering gap insurance in addition to comprehensive insurance. This will cover the difference between the cash value of your van and the outstanding balance on your loan in the event of a total loss to your vehicle.