Best security locks for vans

Drivers who use their van for business have a lot of worries about safety. There have been more and more van thefts in the last several years. Unfortunately, commercial vans are often easy targets for thieves. This is especially true if your job requires you to carry goods or store tools inside the vehicle.

The good news is that adding extra van locks can help. Thieves will think twice before trying to break into these locks. They may also help you avoid having to pay a lot of money to replace stolen items and equipment.

There are so many choices that it might be difficult to choose the best security locks for vans. VanLock Security is here to help you keep your vehicle secure with reliable, high-quality solutions. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common types of van locks and help you find the one that fits your needs.

The different types of van door locks

There are many types of van locks, but these are the most common ones:

What is a slam lock?

As the name suggests, a slam lock locks the door as it closes. If you unintentionally lock yourself inside, you can unlock it from inside the vehicle without a key.
However once the door is closed, it can’t be opened from the inside. This makes things even safer.

Slam locks are usually fitted on the rear doors. But they can also be installed on the driver’s and passenger’s doors to help prevent van theft. At VanLock Security suggest slam locks for delivery people who need to work quickly and easily without putting their safety at risk.

When is a slam lock useful?

Slam locks are especially useful for multi-drop drivers and couriers. They let you secure your van quickly while delivering parcels, without any extra hassle.
This feature is ideal when you’re carrying heavy packages.

You won’t need a free hand to lock the vehicle manually. Fitting a slam lock, along with goods in transit insurance, can be an effective way to protect both your van and your business.

Benefits of Slam Locks

What is a deadlock?

A deadlock is a separate security measure. It works by throwing a bolt into the receiving bracket on the opposite side of the door. Unlike a slam lock, you have to physically lock the doors to activate the deadlock mechanism.
Deadlocks cannot be opened from inside the van. So, if a thief smashes a window and tries to unlock the door from the inside, they won’t be able to.

VanLock Security puts up high-quality deadlocks that are perfect for vehicles that are parked overnight or in dangerous places. This additional protection is a sensible way to keep your vehicle safe for a long time.

When is a deadlock useful?

Deadlocks are useful for businesses that don’t need to get into the back of their van frequently. This includes:

Benefits of Deadlocks

Slam locks vs. deadlocks. which is better?

Slam locks and deadlocks are both useful in various situations. People that need to get into their vehicle often, such delivery drivers or couriers, should use slam locks. On the other hand, deadlocks are excellent for those who don’t use their vehicle as much but still want to be safe.

Deadlocks are safer than slam locks because they offer an extra layer of protection. They can’t be opened from the inside since they have a separate locking mechanism. A deadlock can be the best choice if your primary purpose is to keep things as safe as possible.

What is a hook lock?

A hook lock works like a deadbolt. But it uses a hooked bolt instead of a straight one. The hooked bolt fits into the receiving bracket when it is locked. This design makes it safer than traditional deadlocks.
VanLock Security helps tradesmen or fleet operators who move valuable equipment where theft is common; they should use hook locks. These locks are among of the safest mechanical options you can buy.

When should a hook lock be used?

In general, hook locks can be used in any circumstances where a deadlock would be the best option.

Benefits of Hook Locks

Other locks used for van security?

There are a number of other locks you can use so that even if a thief is able to get into your van, they will have a hard time stealing anything or driving off. This includes:

What is a catalytic converter lock?

Unfortunately, the goods inside your van aren’t the only things thieves target. Some people will try to steal the catalytic converter, which is a part of your car that cuts down on dangerous emissions from the exhaust.
Catalytic converters are worth a lot of money on the illegal market since they have precious metals in them.

Thieves may access to them more easily since they are normally beneath the car near the exhaust. A lock for the catalytic converter may help against this sort of theft. It wraps around the converter and secures it in place, making it more tougher to take off. The most common type is the CatLoc, which typically costs around £110.

Steering wheel locks and gear lever locks

Both kinds of locks function by keeping the steering wheel and gearbox in place. This makes them hard to use and keeps robbers from stealing your van. Steering wheel locks and gear lever locks act as strong visual and physical deterrents. They both require keys to unlock and remove.

Secure lockbox

A secure lockbox provides an extra layer of protection inside your van. It’s the best place to keep tools and valuables that you need to leave in the car. It’s hard to take off or steal the lockbox since it is normally attached to the floor of the vehicle.
These boxes come in many different sizes to meet various demands. Most models cost between £200 and £400. When combined with tools in transit insurance, a secure lockbox can be a powerful theft deterrent.

Conclusion

Van theft is a growing problem. If you use your van for work, keeping it safe should be your primary responsibility. The finest security locks for vans can help protect your equipment, cargo, and vehicle. Slam locks are ideal if you make frequent stops. Deadlocks offer strong protection when your van is parked overnight. Hook locks provide even more resistance against forced entry.

You can also make things even safer. Locks for the gear lever, steering wheel, and catalytic converter, as well as safe lockboxes, all assist in keeping things from being stolen. The best way to defend yourself is to use a mix of these strategies. You can safeguard your company and feel safe with the finest security locks for vans. VanLock Security can help you choose best security locks for vans. Our expert team offers trusted products and personalised service.

Frequently Asked Question

If your van has been attacked or you want to prevent one, Repair Plates and External Shields are a simple but powerful defense.

1. Which are best security locks on vans?

Slam locks, dead lock and hook locks are the best van security locks. They both have their own benefits based on the frequency of using your van as well as the level of security you require.

2. How does the slam lock differ with the deadlock?

Slam lock has a locking system that automatically locks the door once it has been closed which is the same case with couriers and drivers who pause at regular intervals. A deadlock requires key entry and has more secure overnight protection because it is not possible to open it by the inside.

3. Do hook locks perform better than deadlocks?

Hook locks are safer than deadlocks. Their hook bolt makes the forced entry much more lousy. They are particularly useful in door-peeling attacks and are also wonderful on high-risk situation.

4. Is it possible to fit two types of locks on my van?

Yes, the van owners usually integrate the two slam locks and deadlocks to ensure all round protection- slam lock in daytime and the deadlock at night. Steering wheel locks, catalytic converter locks and lockboxes can also be added to enhance safety.

5. Do steering wheel locks and gear lever locks work?

Yes. Although they appear to be simple, they nevertheless form a superior physical and visual barrier. It is not easy to steal the van when it is obvious that there are several layers of security over it.

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Best security locks for vans