For those who depend on their vans for work van security is an essential matter, especially since van thefts have been increasing recently. Unfortunately commercial vans are an easy to target for thieves, particularly in the case of work that demands you to move items or keep tools inside your vehicle.
It is a good thing that installing additional van locks could act as a deterrent to thieves and help you avoid needing to bear the expense of replacing equipment and other items. With so many van locks to choose from it’s difficult to determine which you should pick. This article will review the various options available for security locks on vans and help you decide which one is most suitable for your requirements.
The different types of van door locks
There are a variety of security locks for van to choose from However, the following are thought to be the most commonly used:
Slam lock
Deadlock
Hook lock
What exactly is a Slam Lock?
The name implies that the slam lock secures the vehicle when you shut the door. It is able to be opened by entering the vehicle without keys, and this is extremely beneficial since it keeps your from being trapped within. When the door is shut, that means that the door needs to be locked from the outside, which increases security.
Slam locks are typically placed on the back of the doors, but they may be added to the driver’s and passenger’s seat compartments to stop thieves from taking the van.
Why is the use of a slam lock beneficial?
Slam locks are especially beneficial for couriers who are multi-droppers because they let you keep your items in your vehicle when you’re taking delivery without hassle. This is especially useful when you’ve got heavy packages that you need to lock the vehicle could be complicated or time-consuming.
Installing a slam locking device and taking out the goods in transit cover can be a good method of safeguarding your van as well as your business.
What is deadlock?
A deadlock is an additional security device that operates by putting a bolt in the bracket that receives it on one side of the doors. In contrast to the slam lock you’ll need to secure the doors to the van in order to activate this deadlock feature. Deadlocks can’t be opened from inside the van. Therefore, should a burglar attempt to smash a window to open the van’s doors from the inside, they will not be in a position to.
What is the purpose of a deadlock?
Deadlocks can be useful for companies who don’t require getting to behind their vehicles regularly. This can include:
Gardeners
Cleaners
Removal companies
Slam locks and. deadlocks: Which one is the better choice?
Both deadlocks and slam lock have different advantages for different purposes. While a slam lock is ideal best for people who must regularly access their van while a deadlock is best for those who don’t require access to their vehicle often, but still require an additional security layer.
Deadlocks provide a bit more security when compared to locks that slam because they employ an entirely separate mechanism that cannot be removed from the inside. So should you only need security, this could be the best option.
What is a hook lock?
A hook lock operates exactly the same way as deadbolts, except that the bolt is connected. If thrown, it will hook into the receiving bracket providing an extra protection layer in comparison to deadlocks.
When should hook locks be employed?
Hook locks are suitable in all situations where a deadlock could be the ideal choice.
Are there other locks I could use to increase the security of my van?
There are many other locks you can choose to use so that , even if criminal is able to break inside your vehicle it will have a tough time taking any item or driving away. This includes:
Catalytic converter locks
Locks for the steering wheel
Gear lever locks
Secure lockboxes
What’s a catalytic conversion lock?
The items inside your car aren’t the only targets for thieves. Many will get your catalytic converter an instrument that converts the emissions from your car’s emissions into safer gasses.
Catalytic converters are made of precious metals, making them valuable products for the dark market. Since they’re usually placed beneath the vehicle, towards an exhaust pipe, they’re an easy to target for criminals.
The catalytic converter lock makes it harder for thieves to take the converter since it is secured around the converter and locks it in place.
What are the differences between steering wheel locks and lock locks on gear levers?
Both of these locks function by locking the gearbox and steering wheel to the vehicle, preventing them from being able to be opened easily. This will stop thieves from driving away with your vehicle. Gear locks and steering wheel lever locks need keys in order to unlock.
What is a safe lockbox?
A safe lockbox can provide an additional layer of protection and is a great way to store any valuables or tools that you store inside your vehicle. The lockbox is typically secured to the bottom of the van, so it isn’t able to be removed of the vehicle with ease.
Secure lockboxes are available in a wide range of sizes. They are typically somewhere between PS200 to PS400. When paired with tools in the transportation covers, lockboxes are an effective security measure.
Do installing additional van security locks cut my insurance costs?
A van security lock that is approved by Thatcham will help lower your insurance costs since they prevent burglaries and thefts. Be aware that the insurance you get for your van is based on several diverse factors, which include:
Your location
Your driving experience
Any no claims bonus you’ve earned
The kind of vehicle you’re driving
What do you do with your van