Increasing Van Thefts in the UK: How Businesses Can Protect Their Fleets

A break-in occurs every 23 minutes in the UK, according to research from Zego Insurance. This alarming statistic is causing increasing frustration among drivers, who are voicing their concerns on social media platforms.

From TikTok videos showing tradesmen chasing after thieves to Facebook posts detailing the aftermath of van break-ins, the stories of van thefts are prompting businesses to rethink how they can protect their fleets and drivers.

The Growing Problem of Van Thefts

Vans are essential to the UK economy. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the light commercial vehicle (LCV) market has grown by 8.4% year-on-year, with January being the best month in three years. However, this growth is accompanied by a worrying rise in van thefts. Over the past four years, the number of stolen vans per 1,000 registrations has increased from 4.36 in 2019 to 4.55 in 2022. In the past year alone, more than 11,000 vans were stolen in the UK, marking a 4.4% increase.

The Impact on Van Drivers and Businesses

The figures are staggering, but the financial and emotional toll on drivers and businesses is even more concerning. According to Zego Insurance, van thefts can severely disrupt operations, costing traders an average of £4,300. Additionally, repairs following break-ins can amount to approximately £750. Beyond the financial loss, the emotional impact is significant, with 71% of tradespeople reporting anxiety after their tools are stolen. Although 46% of those who report the theft to the police manage to recover some of their tools, the disruption to their work is considerable.

Practical Steps to Protect Vans

Given the rising trend in van thefts, businesses need to adopt effective security measures tailored to their specific needs. Here are some strategies to enhance van security:

• Alarms: While engine immobilisers are mandatory, vans are not required to have alarms. Investing in advanced alarms with both perimetric and volumetric sensors can provide better protection. Aftermarket alarms with Category 1 insurance approval from Thatcham Research can also help reduce insurance premiums.
• Additional Locks: Installing extra locks, such as deadlocks or slam locks, adds another layer of security. Deadlocks are manually activated, whereas slam locks automatically lock when the door closes, serving as a strong visual deterrent.
• Trackers: Though trackers don’t prevent break-ins, they help locate stolen vans quickly. Despite thieves’ efforts to jam or remove these devices, most vehicles equipped with trackers are recovered within a few days.
• Catalytic Converter Locks: Vans are often targeted for their catalytic converters, which contain valuable metals like platinum and palladium. Installing a Cat Lock device or using a marking system can deter thieves. A national asset database also exists to register catalytic converters with a uniquely formulated SmartWater solution.
• Locking Wheel Nuts: With the rising value of tyres and parts, even basic wheels are becoming targets. Using locking nuts on wheels can prevent theft and the inconvenience of finding a vehicle on bricks.

Educating Drivers on Preventive Measures

Businesses should also educate their drivers on best practices for van security:

• Careful Parking: Parking in well-lit areas with CCTV coverage can deter thieves. When possible, parking close to a wall reduces access for thieves. Logistics UK’s survey shows that parking on a driveway, if available, reduces the risk of tool theft from 38% to 24%.
• Locking Up: Surprisingly, 45% of van drivers admitted they don’t always lock their vehicles. Taking a moment to double-check that the van is locked before walking away can prevent opportunistic thefts.
• Keeping Valuables Out of Sight: Leaving valuables on display can attract thieves. Even small items, like loose change, can be tempting. For electric vans, hiding charging cables is crucial as they are valuable and inconvenient to replace if stolen.
• Protecting Key Fobs: Thieves often use devices to relay the signal from keyless fobs to unlock and start vehicles. Storing key fobs in signal-blocking Faraday containers can prevent this.
• Securing Apps: Many new vans come with smartphone apps that can locate, unlock, and check the status of the vehicle. Ensuring these apps are protected by strong passwords or PINs is essential.

Taking Action if Your Van is Stolen

Despite all precautions, if a van is stolen, immediate action is crucial. Contact the local police station with the registration number, make, model, and colour of the van. They will provide a crime reference number and notify the DVLA. It’s also essential to inform your insurance company, ensuring your policy covers theft.

By adopting these measures and educating drivers, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of van thefts and protect their valuable assets.