How to Make Your Van Secure
A van is an asset worth having, typically carrying expensive tools and equipment. It is crucial to make your van as secure as possible. There are many ways you can do this.
Slamlocks locks doors once you shut them and are beneficial for couriers who make small drops or are susceptible to not locking the van. Other upgrades include security stickers covering windows, tinting or covering them and fitting the tool vault with a lockable feature.
Security locks
It is important to protect the contents of vans, because they serve as a vehicle for transportation and storage on the move. The proper security measures for your van will deter criminals while also protecting your possessions. This allows you to travel with confidence.
Door locks are the first line of defence, securing the doors of the van and preventing unauthorized access. Standard locks, which are usually installed by the manufacturer, provide an adequate level of security but are easily manipulated by determined thieves. Upgrading to more advanced security locks that are impervious to drilling, cutting and picking is a good investment in security.
When you are choosing a vanlock you must consider the quality of the material, its construction and whether it is Thatcham-approved. This ensures that the lock is of top quality and more difficult to alter. The slamlock is a further factor to take into. It automatically locks the doors of the load area when it is closed and requires a special key to unlock. This is perfect for couriers who forget to lock up their vans during deliveries. Hook locks are another option that strengthens the doors on the rear and side to guard against 'peel and steal' attacks.
Regular cleaning and lubrication of your van locks is also vital to ensure that the lock functions properly and ensure the strength of the mechanism. This helps prevent corrosion and rust and helps ensure smooth operation. Regular inspections will enable you to detect signs of wear and damage, and then address them promptly. ford transit security locks can prevent security issues from arising.
Alongside improving the overall security of your vehicle, fitting the right security systems can help you save money on your van insurance. Many insurers offer favourable terms for the purchase of robust security solutions.
Slamlocks
Strengthening your van's lock is one of the most effective ways to deter robbers. By installing slam or high-strength locks your van's doors will be more secure and difficult to break into. This is particularly important if you use your van to transport expensive tools or valuable cargo.
The slamlock activates automatically when your door is shut. It doesn't require you to press any keys to activate the mechanism. It's less likely to be compromised, which makes it perfect for couriers and tradespeople that work out of their vans throughout the day. They may not remember to lock it at the end of each journey. It also helps combat the issue of opportunistic burglaries that occurs when thieves open your vehicle's existing lock and run off with whatever they can get their hands on and often include the tools you require for your job.
There are many different types of slamlocks available. Some offer extra security features such as anti drill and anti pick technology, or a steelplate which prevents drilling. Some are designed for specific applications, like those used by multidrop drivers or those who transport lots of valuable goods.
Deadlocks are a great alternative for those who require more protection than what a slamlock can provide. These locks function independently of the locking mechanism that came from the manufacturer and are only be unlocked by the driver by using the key supplied. Alternately, you can invest in hook locks that works similarly, but offers extra security with a deadlocking hook bolt that connects to an opposing body part and operates with the key supplied under complete control of the driver.
Dashboard cameras
Include a dash camera into your van if you want it to be more secure and safer. These cameras can assist you in avoiding collisions and accidents while driving, and they are also useful in proving your innocence in the event of a traffic offense. These cameras work by converting light signals into electrical signals and then convert the signals into digital information. They can be powered by the vehicle's battery or by a lighter for your cigarette.
A majority of the dashboard cameras available on the market include SD cards or flash drives for saving recordings. These devices typically overwrite old footage to create space for new videos, but they can be upgraded with memory cards with high capacity in case you wish to save more video data. Certain dashboard cameras come with cloud storage, eliminating the need for memory card storage. These kinds of dashboard cameras connect to either a Wi-Fi or smartphone and upload their data at different intervals.
Hard-wired or wireless cameras are also worth considering. Hardwired cameras are less vulnerable to interference from cellular networks and other sources. They are also more durable and certain models are able to withstand the weather.
Some vans are equipped with dual dash cams that can record video from both the front and rear of the vehicle. This is useful when reversing into tight spaces or while parking. Certain cameras come with night vision that can enhance images in low light conditions and enhance visibility for drivers. Many van owners choose to include this feature in their systems. Certain dashboard cameras can be remotely monitored, and this can be a huge benefit for van owners who are often away from their vehicles.
Alarms
Van life has become increasingly popular for those who are avid travelers and want to explore, but it's without its risks. People who live in their vehicles are often at the mercy of thieves who could target their vehicle and its contents. There are many ways to protect your vehicle and its contents, but one of the best is to install an alarm system. These alarm systems can be linked to your keypad so that you will be alerted in the event of a break-in. These systems can also lower insurance premiums. This could save you thousands of dollars over the course of your vehicle.
A good alarm system has a base, keypad, and entry sensors to protect against door peal. Certain alarm systems come with built-in motion sensors that detects movement within your vehicle. The alarm will send an alert to your phone. This is a great way to deter anyone who might be a target, and it can even aid in identifying the criminal before they get to them.
Adding deadlocks to all of your doors is another great option to ensure your van is secure. They require a key to operate, and they're much harder to tamper with than normal locks. You can also get locks that operate with a smartphone application. This allows you to check on your vehicle even when you're away.
A majority of van alarms are fitted with an engine immobilizer which disables the engine of your vehicle in the event that the wrong key is used to start it. This is a great precaution, but it will not stop a determined thief taking the entire engine. It is better to use a low-power tracking device that will stop the engine from starting and provide you with the position of your vehicle once it is moved.
Insurance
Vans are an essential source for many businesses, and the security of their contents is of paramount importance. Not only does a robust van security system provide peace of mind, it also helps reduce insurance costs as insurers take van owners' security measures into consideration when calculating premiums.
The year, model, and make of your van will impact the cost of insurance and your driving record. The area in which you reside and work will also impact your rates since higher crime rates could cause higher rates. Insurance companies also take your van's use into consideration as commercial vehicles typically cost more to insure than personal ones.
Check with your insurance provider prior to making any major van mods. This could impact the cost of your insurance. Additionally, adding additional features to your vehicle that aren't standard can increase the cost of your insurance. 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 vehicle.
Another crucial aspect of van life is insurance that covers the equipment and tools you keep in your vehicle in the event that they are stolen. You can purchase complete physical damage protection, as well as roadside assistance plans that take care of breakdowns and other emergencies that occur while you're on the road.
When comparing insurance policies, it's important to remember that the most affordable option isn't necessarily the best. Compare the coverage limits along with deductibles, coverage limits and other benefits to find the best policy that meets your requirements. In addition to complete coverage, it's important to consider gap insurance because it will pay for the difference between your van's actual cash value and any remaining balance on your loan if it is totalled.