Unfortunately, van thefts are incredibly common. Even a vehicle that contains no equipment, tools, or assets but has a standard set of van locks can be vulnerable to damage, break-ins, and the cost of repairing broken locks, windows and doors.

The latest data shows that there is a van security incident reported once every 12 minutes across the UK, with over 44,500 thefts a year. These issues are far from on the decline, with a 14% jump in van thefts between 2022 and 2023, and with 55% of all reports linked to stolen tools.

Our advice is always to take a proactive approach to van security and never to assume that parking on a driveway, adding a notice advising that valuables aren’t stored overnight, or using manufacturer locks will be enough to protect your van and livelihood from criminals.

The Costs and Benefits of Fitting Next-Gen Van Security Locks

Whether or not tools are visible within a van has little correlation with the frequency of break-ins because thieves will often target back doors that are easy to crowbar open, smash windows, or look for lightweight bodywork they can simply cut through to see if any tools are inside.

Van thefts are also far from limited to tradespeople and can impact couriers and standard business cars if there is a possibility of finding tools or other assets.

Although it’s always worthwhile speaking to one of our van security experts about the right ways to add an additional layer of security to augment the effectiveness of your locks, the advantages are compelling:

• The costs of van break-ins go beyond replacing tools and can include lost business, reputational damage, hikes in van insurance, and credit borrowing costs to cover the costs of new equipment while an insurance claim is being processed.
• The best van locks are impervious to even deliberate and sustained attempts to bypass them, and their anti-drill functionality makes it significantly less likely that any criminal will succeed.
• Insurance industry leaders advocate for advanced locks, and many providers will offer reduced premiums, given the reduced potential for a claim to be made.

In short, a great set of van locks can prevent theft, reduce your business risks, lower the chance of a break-in, and protect your trade while often paying for themselves in reduced insurance premiums.

Different Types of Van Security Assets to Guard Against Thefts and Break-ins

There are numerous potential types of devices designed to safeguard against criminal activities, and the right options could depend on the model and make of your van, the number of locks and opening doors you have, and the quality of the locks already fitted.

As a general guide, we supply and fit the following types of van security products:

• Slam locks: Lock automatically when the door is shut – hence the name. These locks don’t need to be manually activated with a key or fob and are ideal for drivers who make frequent stops or need the peace of mind that the door closes securely every time.
• Hook locks: These locks are secured with a hook-shaped bolt that fits into a straight bolt, similar to a deadlock, but with a hooked bracket in the door frame that makes it difficult or impossible to force the door open.
• Van deadlocks: Work in addition to and separately from the manufacturer’s standard locks. They use a bolt and bracket that needs to be opened with a secure key. Deadlocks can’t be opened from the inside and use brackets anchored on the door frame.

The best van locks have security accreditations that are recognised by insurers. They are simple and easy to operate and are tamper-proof – making them almost impossible to force with a crowbar, drill, or any other piece of equipment.

We can also recommend additional security locks or devices, such as immobilisers to prevent a van from being driven away and security plates that add more robust protection to your van’s bodywork to ensure it can’t be cut or damaged to gain access to the locking mechanism inside.

Immobilisers can be traditional models fitted to the steering wheel, but more advanced alternatives use chips, pin codes and fobs to ensure a van cannot be started without a specific code being entered or a secure card being present.

How to Pick the Most Suitable Locks and Security Devices to Upscale Your Van’s Security

Eyden’s Auto Locksmiths is known as a van security specialist. We’ll always be happy to provide tailored, relevant advice about the optimal locks or deadlocks for your van. However, our recommendations will vary based on your risks, the type of van you have, and whether, for example, you have side doors or only rear doors.

We’ve summarised some models below to give you a better idea about some of the most powerful van security locks on the market and those we most often suggest.

L4V Van Deadlocks and Hook Locks

L4V is a featured brand and a popular choice for van security, with the deadlock operating independently and designed specifically for vans. 

Each deadlock works autonomously from the standard locking system and is controlled with an external key, which means the deadlock can’t be broken, forced, or opened with a duplicate or pick. It’s also highly advisable to install hook locks on both side and rear doors to protect all potential points of entry.

L4V Statement Van Deadlocks

The Statement Deadlock is one of the highest-rated locks available and holds Sold Secure Diamond Approval—the highest level of security approval granted in the automotive security sector. The lock is rated for its resistance to tool-assisted theft and can withstand angle grinders or drills.

L4V External Shield Plates

We mentioned Shield Plates earlier. These are often overlooked but can be powerful additions to your security. They reduce the chance that bodywork can be cut or punctured to gain access. Plates can be fitted over latches and locks or cover existing damage to ensure the more vulnerable parts of your van are fully protected.

Of course, if you’d like more details about any of these or other van security locking devices, want independent advice about the best security for your van, or would like to compare mobile fitting or workshop installation prices, you can either contact Eydens Auto Locksmiths or get in touch for further information.