10 ways to keep your van safe and secure

Our top 10 tips to keep your van, and its cargo, safe.

Your van is more than just a vehicle—it's your mobile office, transport between jobs, and tool carrier.

Protecting it and its cargo not only offers peace of mind but safeguards your business.

Leasing a van means you get the latest models with cutting-edge security features.

However, there are additional steps you can take to add an extra layer of protection. After all, there's no such thing as being too careful, right?

Store your tools somewhere else at night

We often see the “No tools left in van overnight” stickers—and for good reason.

If there’s nothing valuable in the van, there's no incentive for thieves to target it.

Instead of just protecting, you can prevent the issue even further by removing your tools at the end of the day.

Although, we know this isn’t possible for everyone. So keep on reading, we’ve got more tips.

Choose your parking spot wisely

Avoid parking in dark, poorly lit areas, as it doesn’t feel safe for anyone.

Opt for spaces near CCTV cameras for extra security, or use devices like Ring doorbells to capture any movement nearby. This will scare and deter anyone thinking of doing anything illegal.

If you have a driveway at home, park as close to a wall as possible to limit access to entry points.

Always lock your doors and close your windows

It may seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget.

Whether you’re running into the shop or just paying for fuel, it’s tempting to leave your van unlocked.

But it only takes a minute for someone to steal your belongings.

Keep your van locked at all times, and consider remote locking via apps like Ford’s app for extra peace of mind.

Use a tool safe

If you can't remove your tools every night, a tool safe is a great solution.

These secure boxes not only help you organise your tools, but also provide an additional layer of protection.

Some can even be bolted down to prevent thieves from making off with your entire safe.

Dash cams

Dash cams are typically used to capture road incidents, but many can be set to detect motion and start recording if someone attempts to break into your van.

The footage can either deter the thief or provide evidence of the incident.

This is a great option if CCTV or a Ring doorbell simply isn’t possible for you.

Window security

Windows are a vulnerable point for any vehicle.

Consider installing tints to prevent thieves from seeing inside, and add steel grilles for additional security.

This makes it harder for thieves to break in, even if the window is smashed.

Upgrade your alarm system

The standard alarm system that comes with most vans often won’t go off if the van is unlocked.

It’s worth considering an upgrade for your van’s alarm system that offers more robust protection.

But if you’re leasing, you will need to clear any moderations with your funder.

Mark your property

Like putting your name on your belongings at school, us an UV pen to mark your tools with your details.

This makes them easily identifiable in the event of a theft.

It also deters thieves from reselling stolen items, as buyers often check for these UV markings.

Get tool insurance

If you transport tools in your van, tool insurance can be a lifesaver.

Should your tools be stolen, insurance helps you replace them quickly, minimising downtime and financial loss.

So even if the worst happens, you can move forward with peace of mind.

Keep an inventory of your van’s contents

Having a list of all the items in your van makes it easier to spot if something disappears.

It’s so easy to miss or forget something.

Like your mother-in-law’s birthday. We’ve all been there.

By following these tips, you’ll be one step ahead of any would-be thieves, keeping your business and its contents safe and sound .

If you're leasing a van, just make sure you check the fine print and ask your supplier—permanent modifications might be a no-go.

The good news? Leasing means you get your hands on the latest vans with all the top security tech, all while keeping your monthly costs manageable and enjoying some sweet business and tax perks