The Benefits of a Van Hook Lock
A van hook lock is an additional layer of security for your commercial vehicle. They are attached to the door and connecting panel. They use a hook style bolt that is inserted into the bracket for receiving, making them more resistant to prying or force.
They function independently of the locking system of the manufacturer and are secured with a high-security key. Owner-drivers, and industries that rely on their vehicles will appreciate them.
Deadlocks
A van is usually loaded with valuable tools, equipment and personal belongings. This makes a secure lock essential. Unfortunately, opportunistic theft of these items is a regular occurrence, resulting in financial damage to vans and even disruption of business as usual for those who are affected by the issue. This is why it's essential to take the necessary precautions when it comes to your vehicle, including installing the best security. A van deadlock is a mechanical lock that you purchase that functions independently from the internal locking system of the manufacturer and activates a secure deadbolt across the door and connects to the body panel when locked with an external key of high-security.
The lock operates using a long bolt which extends from the lock, and locks into the door's frame once engaged. The bolt cannot be snagged or punched into position, and it cannot be opened by simply pulling on the handle as an ordinary OE lock. This additional layer of security implies that a burglar would require specialist tools and techniques in order to break into a van, greatly increasing the time, effort and the risk involved.
A van deadlock is easily installed by professionals and can be an excellent addition to your security features of the vehicle. It can also act as a visual deterrent and can make the van less appealing to thieves. It's important to remember that a deadlock may fail just like any other van security system. Despite its robust design, it is vulnerable to mechanical failures and can be compromised by a range of external factors, including van vibration, heat, rust or general wear and wear and tear.
Another effective way to enhance your van's security features is the slam lock. They operate similarly to deadlocks, and lock automatically when doors are closed. They are ideal for delivery drivers who make multiple deliveries or couriers that enter and leave their vehicles frequently throughout the day. The only difference is they are triggered when the door closes, meaning they cannot be manually unlocked.
If you are looking for a more premium solution hook lock is available that offers the advantages of both slam and deadlocks. It functions in the same way as a traditional lock by placing a hook-style bolt on an adjustable bracket. However, it is also recognised as Gold Standard by Sold Secure and provides an additional protection against attacks made with hand tools or brute strength.
Slam locks
Van slam locks, in contrast to deadlocks and other locking systems, secure the door of the vehicle when it is closed. This prevents opportunistic thefts. They are particularly effective for couriers, multi-drop drivers and owners of large loads and work independently from the manufacturers locking system. They feature shielding components that safeguard the wiring looms and door latch as well as the bodywork.
Slam locks are not only physical security, but also a visual deterrent. They are available for a wide range of commercial vehicles and include Citroen Berlingos, Ford Transits as well as Fiat Scudos, Iveco Dailys and Man TGE vans. They are installed in the door pillar or connecting panel of your van and are operated with an external key that can only be used by the driver.
They are more secure than other van locks due to the fact that they are immune to 'peeling' attacks in the event that the lock has been taken off. They can be paired in conjunction with a van alarm, to enhance the overall security. They are a good choice for delivery drivers, tradesmen and couriers who are away from their vans a lot of the time and are often forgetful about locking their vehicles.
In addition to increasing the security of your vehicle, slam locks can help reduce insurance premiums. This is because insurance companies determine their charges based on the risk of theft. If they think that your vehicle is more likely than not to be stolen, they will charge higher premiums for your insurance.
Adding an additional lock to your van is an investment that is worth it, especially in the event that you have expensive equipment within it. Thieves might target a van that has an catalytic converter to take the metals. However, a van slam lock can stop thieves from taking the catalytic converter, since it is not possible to open the van doors with the lock on.
Both types of locks provide different levels of security. However, they are both ideal for those who spend a significant amount of time in vans. Both can be combined with an engine immobiliser or an alarm to help locate any goods that are stolen.
Hook locks
Van hook locks can be mounted on your vehicle's door to prevent theft. They are independent of the lock system of your vehicle and use a hook-style bolt that latches onto an receiving bracket. They are not susceptible to door spreading and offer an additional locking point that offers high security for your van. These locks can be installed on a variety of vans, including Citroen Berlinergos, Fiat Scudos, Ford Connects, Mercedes Vitos, Volkswagen Transporters and Renault Trafics. These locks can be used with both front and rear loading doors. They can be keyed identically to the original cylinder keys.
They are an excellent choice for those who spend long periods of time without vehicles. They also help discourage thieves who are opportunistic by altering the risk-reward ratio for criminals. They can aid in preventing thefts involving 'Peel and Stole, as they will make it more difficult for thieves to remove your possessions from the back of your van by using force. They can also prevent thieves from slamming your load area door to open the lock, and are easy to put inside your vehicle.
Van hook locks could be an advantage because they are easier to open by opportunists. They can be opened using standard tools, such as jamming devices or bolt croppers. They can also be opened by taking the hook from the lock case and pulling out the bolt from the keep which allows the bolt to slide down the door and connect to it. However you can stop them from doing so by installing an emergency release mechanism within the lock that will prevent it from closing onto the inside of your load compartment.
If you decide to install a van hook lock, you must ensure that it is installed correctly and adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for your specific type of vehicle. If you are unsure you need to speak with an experienced locksmith or van security expert to assist you install it properly. When choosing the right lock for your van, you should take into consideration a variety of aspects, including the dimensions and worth of the goods that you carry. You should also think about how often you will be away from your vehicle and whether you'll need to keep valuable items in it.
Statement locks
Despite the initial cost of security locks, they provide an exceptional value to van owners in terms of asset protection, peace of mind, and savings potential from reducing security incidents and theft. Whether you choose a top-of-the-range electronic lock that requires a keycode access to unlock or an easy mechanical lock with a strong hook mechanism, knowing the advantages of each allows you to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements and budget.
You can also increase the security of your van by installing slamlocks that automatically secure doors in the load area after closing, and can prevent 'peel and steal' crimes. For couriers, these additional locks are a visual deterrent that safeguards against the risk of drivers forgetting to shut and lock their doors after loading or unloading, particularly when working in a busy environment.
A statement lock is another popular option. It is mounted on the exterior of the door and is braced against the bodywork for more security and to act as a visible deterrent. These sturdy locks are not dependent on the locking systems installed by the manufacturer and can be fitted to the cab, rear or side doors. They are also an affordable upgrade for deadlocks that are already in use by reducing the common vulnerabilities by strengthening the lock barrel.
A variety of shielding options can be used to protect the locking mechanisms inside wire looms, wiring looms and handles on the doors and windows of the van. These components can be damaged and taken away in the event of a burglary. By adding them to the van provides an additional layer of protection. These solutions are available as an affordable upgrade to existing locks and can also be used in conjunction with a statement lock for the door of a panel van to protect the entire body from attack. It is crucial that the van's locks are installed and maintained by professionals. Contact the experts at Lockwell Van Security to learn more about the various ways in which we can enhance the security of your commercial vehicle. We have years of experience in installing van security locks of all kinds.