Why It's Important to Invest in Van Door Security
Vans are a popular target for thieves because they are packed with power tools as well as other specialized equipment that is sold easily. It is essential to invest in van security.
They are great for couriers, who may not lock their van manually during deliveries.
Deadlocks
It might seem costly however, if you think about what a break-in can cause to your business (including the loss of expensive tools or damage to your van), it is worth the cost. Taking the time to understand and compare different security options for van doors will allow you to make an informed decision on the best security option for your van. Reviews and testimonials of other owners of vans can provide valuable insights, providing first-hand perspectives to assist you in choosing the right product.
Designed to be used on both the cab and rear doors of your van, a deadlock functions independently of the locks you purchased from your manufacturer and adds additional strength to the doors. They work by projecting the bolt across the mechanism and into an internal receiving bracket. This increases the safety of your vehicle. In addition, they are much harder to disable than slam locks and hook deadlocks due to their manual operation.
In recent years thieves have been employing a technique called 'Peel and steal' to access the load space of vans. This involves crow-barring open the door and applying pressure to push it back, allowing them to gain access to the contents. This is the reason it's essential to install your van deadlocks in the most secure positions to minimize the chance of attacks like this.
As an additional measure, many of these locks come with a built-in security feature called the lock shield, which is a large metal plate that is placed on the top of the cylinder. It stops the lock from being forced. This is a protection against criminals who might otherwise be tempted to gain entry by forcing the key or lock.
Catalytic converter locks are another option for van owners who are concerned about the theft or their precious metals. These locks, which transform pollutants into less harmful gasses, are an ideal target for thieves because they contain precious metals that can be traded on the black market. The good news is that there are now catalytic converter locks available on the market that can be fitted to the exterior of your van. They, like a deadlock, act as an effective protection against burglaries.
Anti-peel brackets
Modern vans are equipped with thin panels that are easily removed in an attack known as "peel and steal". Many van owners and business owners are concerned about the theft of equipment and tools.
However, this can be easily avoided with the right security equipment. Our expert locksmiths can install anti-peel brackets onto the doors of your vehicle, and they've been proven to significantly improve the security of your van's door. They work best with deadlocks and hook locks to prevent van thieves from peeling open your doors.
These plates of metal are usually located on the sides or back of sliding van doors. They stop thieves from lifting up the door's skin to gain access to the equipment and tools you have inside. They can also be used to help strengthen the door and serve as a visual deterrent making it harder for criminals to strike your van.
Our anti-peel kit is an essential upgrade for your vehicle. They are simple to install and can be installed on any sliding door on your commercial vehicle. They are compatible with any vehicle, whether it is either a manual or automatic model. They don't require any modifications to existing doors. Independent testing has revealed that these kits can boost the resistance of the door against peel attacks by as much as 3,000%.
Our ULTIMATE security solutions for your van include Ford replacement locks and slamlocks. We also offer handle shields and external protective plates. Each product is designed to your specific van model and can be used with your deadlock and hook lock to ensure maximum security. Secured by design has certified all of our ULTIMATE range of products. This is an endorsement which confirms that the products reduce criminal activity and discourage criminals.
The ULTILock Slamlock replaces your factory-fitted handles with a stainless steel version that includes an Slamlock. It's an attractive deterrent to opportunistic thieves by strengthening the weak lock fitted by factory area. It also includes internal shielding that provides complete protection against attack.
Door sensors
Door sensors are an important component of van security. They alert fleets of potential thefts by sending an instant alert to the dashboard as well as to the driver's application when cargo doors suddenly open. This allows fleets to respond quickly and avoid loss of valuable goods, while also making sure that they don't waste perishable goods and deliveries that are not planned.
There are a variety of types of door sensors such as pull-apart sensors door-mounted sensors and recessed sensors. Each type of sensor has distinct advantages and benefits. Door sensors all use the same basic design to detect whether the cargo door is closed or opened. The environment and location where the sensor was placed will have an effect on its performance. The presence of direct sunlight and heat sources, like can affect the range and accuracy of sensors. Also, an ambient noise level can affect the capability of a sensor to detect motion.
To ensure maximum performance, it is important to regularly clean and check your door sensors. Dust and debris can hinder the magnetic pull of the two blades of a reed switch, preventing the sensor from working. To prevent this from happening, clean the sensor clean after every use. Check the batteries of your door sensors that are wireless regularly, as they can prevent them from activating an alarm if the batteries are dead.
Cargo van security systems with door sensors provide the best protection against theft of cargo. They usually include drill-free stainless steel locking shackles and are designed to secure cargo doors as well as the cylinder locks that surround them. This stops thieves from gaining access to the lock's cylinder or playing with it. Additionally they can be paired with vehicle geofencing to alert fleets of unusual activity.
These systems also can help to optimize the storage space in warehouses. They can also identify areas of high risk like those near the entrance of the building or the loading dock. Then, they can be improved by adding additional lighting, cameras and security door.
Alarms
Thefts pose a risk to all drivers however, they're a particular issue for owners of commercial vehicles. Because of this, many people seek ways to improve their van security, and the right steps could help them save money on insurance.
There are plenty of products available that can make it difficult for thieves to gain entry into a cargo van. For instance, door handle protectors, that are stronger and more difficult to remove than factory-supplied handles, are a basic but effective deterrent. In the same way, door sensors can sound an alarm when anyone attempts to open the door of your vehicle, which will dissuade anyone who is not a good fit.
Certain companies also offer various additional van accessories, such as slamplate locks (made from stainless steel and designed to be hard to pick) as well as weaving guards (which prevent wires from being easily accessible) and anti-pick Cylinder locks (which are almost impossible to crack). The more security measures you have in place the less likely it is that your van will be targeted.
There are even devices that help locate your van after it's stolen. However, these systems aren't 100% guaranteed to work, so it's a recommended to speak with a specialist about the best options for your needs.
Boosting your van security may cost, but it's well worth it. It will also protect the tools and equipment that you store in your van. The best way to safeguard your gear is to always carry it with you, however if that's not feasible then a safe storage box that bolts to the floor could aid.
It's also an excellent idea to park your van in a secure and well-lit area overnight, and then try to reverse it against a wall or similar, to reduce the chances of an attack on the rear or side doors. A sign that reads "no tools in this vehicle for the duration of the night" could also be an effective deterrent. security locks for van doors that is specifically designed for your needs is another option that can offer financial protection in the event theft.
