UK businesses reported £3.5 billion worth of stolen equipment in 2022, as a result of rising thefts from vans. More than a third (36%) of van drivers fell victim to thefts last year, according to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
Almost fifty per cent (48%) of van drivers keep more than £2,150 worth of tools in their vans overnight. This means that UK tradespeople are risking up to £5 billion in lost equipment.
In a freedom of information request, Police Forces across the UK reported more than 9,000 complaints relating to tool theft in 2022 (37 out of 45 forces responded). London remains a hot spot for the crime in 2022 with over 6,000 reports in the Capital alone.
Here are some best practices shared by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles on how van drivers can protect their vehicles:
- Ensure whenever possible that the van is parked in a well-lit place which is visible to passers-by, not in areas which are secluded and dark;
- Check your surroundings before offloadings, as savvy thieves can spot a high value tool and are willing to take risks to steal them;
- Consider fitting your van, or tools, with a tracking device so that you can see where they are at all times;
- The best way to prevent your tools from being stolen is to not leave them in the van, especially overnight.
- If you do need to leave any tools in your vehicles, then ensure that they are security marked (noting the serial numbers of all tools is also advised). If your tools are tagged, then put a sticker on them to advertise this fact;
- Taking extra precautionary measures. Consider fitting additional safety locks to the rear and side door, or install lockable racking and safe boxes, making it harder for thieves to break in.
