In the UK and other countries, the most frequently stolen vehicle is a van. Being somewhere between a truck and a car, they are a very popular and practical choice for companies that depend on regular, economical, and dependable delivery of their goods. Unfortunately, they are equally as popular with thieves. The good news is that there are measures you can take to keep your van safer. What’s more, taking some of these measures could equate to lower insurance rates.
Staying Safe on the Road
Back up cameras, sensors, sturdy door latches, etc. can mean the difference between being safe on the highway and an unavoidable accident. Equip your delivery van with as many safety features as possible to make sure that both you and your cargo travel securely down the highway, arriving safe and sound to each and every destination.
Tracking Systems
If the unthinkable happens, and your vehicle becomes one of the missing, you can locate it if you have installed a tracking system that uses global positioning. They are a reliable way of locating your stolen vehicle, but they are pretty pricey.
Ultraviolet Markers
By stamping valuable contents and your vehicle with an identifier that is unique to you, you are making them easier to identify should they become stolen. These stamps are only viewable under ultraviolet light, so they are invisible to the thief.
Branding is another way of identifying parts and vehicles. This means that your logo, company name, etc. are engraved or stamped all over your vehicle, tools, parts, etc.
Avoid theft while your van is parked. Consider emptying your van at night and putting signs in the window that read something on the lines of “no power tools stored in this vehicle” or “van left empty overnight”.
And when you do have to park your vehicle, do it in the best place possible – a secure parking area that is well lit. This can help keep you safe, as well.
Increase Security Measures
Your van should be equipped with not only standard central locking, but additional external and internal locks wherever possible. Regarding door locks, consider the following: Armaplate locks, locks that lock automatically upon closure (slam locks), manual key or remote operated central locking systems (basically, security devices that are tamperproof and resemble deadbolts). To protect your costly fuel and vehicle, look into using fuel cap locks and wheel nut locks.
Additional locks or precautions that can be installed include the following: window grills, bulkheads between the load and the driver, handbrake and gear stick locks, and ignition locks.
Loud, reliable alarm systems, safes, and vaults also help deter thievery.
At Mickey Genuine Parts, we have everything you need to make your van secure. Additionally, we have service centers located all over the nation should you need help with installation. Check out our inventory of van body parts today and give us a call if you have any questions; or if you would like to set up an appointment at one of our service centers. Mickey Parts wants to keep you and your van safe both on and off today’s highways.