The reality for tradespeople today is that a van is more than just a vehicle, it’s a mobile workshop and often a tradesperson’s livelihood. Unfortunately, this means it can also be a high-value target.

While door locks are the first line of defence, a truly secure set-up relies on layered security, ensuring that even if the perimeter is breached, your tools are locked down. Secured by Design member Squire shares some key information for protecting your property.

The rising cost of tool theft

Industry data from On The Tools shows that tool theft from vehicles remains a significant challenge for the UK trade sector. With four out of five tradespeople experiencing tool theft (78%), it’s likely you know someone who has experienced this. Out of those surveyed, research from On The Tools also revealed that:

• One in five (17%) tradespeople lose over £5000 worth of tools to theft
• Tool theft mostly affects the self-employed, with them being 38% more likely to be targeted
• Equipment is most likely to be stolen from vans parked outside of their home (39%)
• One in ten (9%) tradespeople experienced equipment stolen from inside the home or garage

Replacing a stolen drill is frustrating, but the financial fallout of a break-in often triggers a chain reaction that hits your bottom line harder than the theft itself. According to industry research from On The Tools, the ‘hidden costs’ are what truly sideline a business.

With a mere 1% recovery rate for stolen tools, relying on getting them back isn’t something you can count on. Instead, the goal has to be prevention through layered security.

If a thief manages to get inside the van, they should be met with further high-security barriers that they simply don’t have the time or equipment to bypass.

Solutions for internal van security

Securing your tools within the vehicle is one of the most effective ways to prevent a ‘smash and grab’.

Heavy duty chests, cargo cages and internal lockers should be secured using robust, attack-resistant padlocks that are appropriate for the environment in which they are used.

Simple solutions to deter theft

You’ve worked hard to build your toolkit - don’t let 10 minutes of convenience cost you thousands in replacements and lost work. Some additional steps to protect your tools could include:

• Locking your internal tool chests every time - even if you’re leaving the van for five minutes
• When stopping at a shop, park in high-footfall areas, ideally under CCTV cameras
• Marking your tools with permanent markers or asset marking products and taking note of the serial numbers. This adds layers of identification to your belongings, so that if your items are stolen, you can prove they’re yours much more easily

Learn more about Squire’s Secured by Design accredited padlocks by visiting squirelocks.co.uk or on its dedicated SBD member page.