Now when winter is here, Vanmate is alerting van owners to the increased risk of vehicle theft during this time of year. With darker evenings and frosty mornings, opportunistic thieves are finding more chances to strike. Data from recent years confirms a concerning trend: van thefts see a sharp rise in the countdown to Christmas.
For owners of the Ford Transit, the warning is particularly urgent. This vehicle remains the most stolen van in the UK, making up a significant proportion of recoveries. However, it’s not the only van targeted—other popular models, including the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Peugeot Boxer, and Vauxhall Combo, are also at risk.
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The cost-of-living crisis continues to put pressure on households and businesses alike, and the impact of van theft extends far beyond the vehicle's value. Stolen tools, equipment, and goods can lead to cancelled jobs, financial loss, and repetitional damage, particularly during a season when tradespeople are busier than ever.
Rising Demand for Spare Parts Fuels Van Theft
Even vans in poor condition are attractive to thieves due to the ongoing global shortage of spare parts. Stolen vehicles are often dismantled for components in illicit “chop shops.” This makes protecting vans all the more critical for owners, whether they’re sole traders or part of larger businesses.
The financial toll of van theft is staggering. Tool theft alone costs tradespeople an average of £5,900, with missed jobs adding a further £6,000 to the burden. While simple deterrents like steering locks and secure parking are effective, advanced solutions like tracking devices offer the best chance of recovery.
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Protect your van with Vanmate
If your van has ever been broken into, you’ll know the emotional toll and the practical challenges it brings. The constant worry at night, wondering if your van will still be there in the morning, is something I experienced for years. At Vanmate, our mission is clear: to make high-quality van security products and alarms accessible to all van owners, tradespeople, and camper van enthusiasts. Our alarms are designed to be affordable and easy to use—no technical expertise required—so protecting your van and livelihood is simple for everyone.
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10 Additional Tips for Van Security in 2024
- Secure your keys: Keep them out of sight and store keyless entry fobs in a Faraday pouch to block relay attacks.
- Never leave the ignition running: Even if you’re stepping away for a moment, take your keys with you.
- Be cautious when de-icing: Don’t leave your van unattended while it’s warming up.
- Lock it up: Always lock the doors and use physical deterrents like steering wheel locks.
- Hide valuables: Don’t leave items like tools or tech in plain view—take them with you or lock them away securely.
- Avoid overnight storage: Remove tools from your van at night and secure externally stored items.
- Mark your tools: Use a UV pen for easy identification and keep a detailed inventory with photos.
- Don’t leave documents inside: This makes it easier for thieves to sell the vehicle or bypass anti-theft systems.
- Choose parking wisely: Opt for busy, well-lit areas near CCTV cameras whenever possible.
- Invest in tracking devices: The best defence against theft is a reliable tracking system to aid in swift recovery.
As the year winds down, Vanmate encourages all van owners to stay vigilant and take proactive steps to protect their vehicles. Whether you’re a delivery driver taking advantage of seasonal work or a tradesperson preparing for a busy winter, safeguarding your van is essential to avoid disruptions during this critical period.
Stay safe this winter—protect your van with Vanmate.
Header photo by Drew Dau on Unsplash
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