Why It's Important to Invest in Van Door Security
Vans are an attractive target for thieves since they are packed with power tools as well as other specialized equipment that can be sold easily. This is why it's important to make sure that your van door is secure.
They are great for couriers, who may not lock their vans manually between deliveries.
Deadlocks
The cost of a security lock may appear expensive, but when you think about the impact that a burglary could cause on your business - including the loss of expensive equipment and damage to your van - it is worth it. Spending the time to learn about and evaluate different van door security options will help you make an informed choice about what is best for your van. Reviews and testimonials of other van owners can provide invaluable information, as well as first-hand perspectives to assist you in deciding on the best product.
A deadlock is designed to be put on the rear and cab door of your van. It functions independently of the locks supplied by your manufacturer and provides the strength of the doors. They function by putting a bolt across the mechanism directly into an internal receiving bracket, bolstering your vehicle's security. Furthermore they are more difficult to disable than slam locks or hook deadlocks due to their manual operation.
In recent years, criminals have employed a method known as "Peel and steal" to gain access to the van's load space. This involves crow-barring open the door, then applying pressure to force it back in order to gain access to the contents. This is why it's crucial to place your van's deadlocks in the most secure position possible to limit the risk of these attacks.
Many locks come with an inbuilt security feature known as a lock guard. It is a large plate that sits atop the cylinder to prevent the lock from being forced. This is a great method to deter criminals from attempting to force the lock or key.
A catalytic converter lock is another option for those who are worried about the theft of their van's precious metals. These locks, which convert pollutants into less harmful gasses are an ideal target for thieves since they contain precious metals, which are able to be sold on the black market. The good news is that there are catalytic converter locks on the market that can be fitted to the outside of your van and similar to a deadlock serve as a powerful deterrent against break-ins.
Anti-peel brackets
Modern vans are designed to be as light as they can be to maximise payload, which means they are equipped with thin panels that are easily cut open in a method called 'peel and steal.' The issue is now a major concern for many van owners and companies as tools and equipment are being stolen at alarming rates.
However, this can be easily prevented by using the right security equipment. Our locksmiths can install anti-peel braces to your vehicle's doors. They have been proven to enhance van door security. They work great in combination with hook locks and deadlocks to prevent opportunistic thieves from ripping your van's doors open.
These plates of metal are usually found on the side or the back of sliding van doors. They deter thieves from lifting up the door skin to gain access to the tools and equipment are inside. These plates can also serve as a visual deterrent, and to reinforce the door. This makes it more difficult for criminals to target vans.
A vital upgrade to your vehicle, our anti-peel kits can be fitted on any sliding door of your commercial vehicle, and they are easy to fit. They are compatible with all vehicles, whether it's either a manual or automatic model. They do not require any modifications to doors that are already in use. Tests conducted by independent experts have shown that these kits can increase the resistance of your vehicle to peeling attacks by as much as 3,00%.
Our ULTIMATE range of security solutions for your van includes Ford replacement locks, slamlocks shields and plates for external protection. Each product is tailored to the specific model of your van and can be used in conjunction with your hook lock and deadlock for maximum security. All of our ULTIMATE products have been endorsed by Secured by Design This is an endorsement that confirms that these products can reduce crime and act as a deterrent to criminals.
The ULTILock Slamlock is a direct stainless steel replacement for your plastic handles fitted by the factory and features an Slamlock mechanism. It acts as a visual deterrent to ward off thefts by strengthening the weak area of the lock that is factory-fitted and also includes an additional shielding inside for total protection against attack.
Door sensors
Door sensors are a crucial component of van security systems. They can alert fleets to possible theft by sending a quick alert to the dashboard and driver's mobile app if cargo doors open suddenly. van side door security allows fleets to act quickly and prevent loss of valuable items, while stopping the waste of perishable goods and unplanned deliveries.
There are many types of door sensors, including pull-apart and recessed door sensors. Each type of sensor has its own advantages and benefits. Door sensors all use the same basic design in order to determine if the door to the cargo has been closed or opened. The location and the environment in which the sensor is installed will have a significant impact on the performance. For instance, the presence of direct sunlight or heat sources could affect a sensor's range as well as accuracy. The ability of sensors to detect motion can be affected by noise levels.
It is important to clean and inspect your door sensors regularly for optimal performance. Dust and debris could block the magnetic pull that connects the two blades in the reed switch, which can prevent the sensor from working. To avoid this, wipe the sensor clean after every use. Make sure to check the batteries of your door sensors wireless regularly, as they can prevent them from activating an alarm if the batteries are dead.
Cargo van security systems with door sensors can provide the highest levels of protection against theft of cargo as well as the possibility of tampering. They usually include drill-free stainless steel locking hasps that are designed to secure cargo doors and the cylinder locks that protect them. This prevents thieves from accessing the lock's cylinder or playing with it. Furthermore they can be linked with vehicle geofencing to alert fleets to unusual activity.
Additionally these systems can be utilized to optimize warehouse storage space. They can help identify high-risk areas, such as those located near the entrance of the building or the loading dock. They can then be improved by adding additional lighting, cameras and a security door.
Alarms
Thefts pose a threat to any driver, but they're particularly a problem for commercial van owners. This is why a lot of people look for ways to improve their van security, and the right steps could aid in saving the cost of insurance.
There are many products on the market that can make it harder for thieves to gain entry into a van carrying cargo. Door handle protectors are an effective yet simple deterrent. They are more durable and more difficult to remove than the handles supplied by the factory. Door sensors can also sound an alarm if someone attempts to open your vehicle. This can deter anyone who is a thief.
Some companies also provide various additional van accessories, such as locks that slamplate (made out of stainless steel and designed to be difficult to pick), weaving guards (which stop easy access to wiring) and anti-pick cylinder locks (which are virtually impossible to get into). The more security measures that you have in place, the less likely that your van is targeted.
There are devices that help locate your vehicle after it's stolen. However, these devices aren't guaranteed to work, so it's always a good idea to talk to a specialist about the best options for your situation.
It may be expensive, but it is well worth it. It will also protect any equipment or tools that you keep in your van. The best way to protect your equipment is to take it with you, however if that's not feasible, then a secure storage box that bolts to the floor can assist.
It is also recommended to park your vehicle in an area that is well-lit and secure overnight. Try to reverse the van against a wall to reduce the possibility of an attack at the rear or side doors. Also, putting a 'no tools kept in this van overnight' sticker could act as a deterrent, too. Alternately, obtaining an insurance policy specifically for tools can provide a financial safety net in case of theft.