Tool theft is on the rise with more than a third (36%) of van drivers falling victim to theft last year, representing a 33 per cent increase since 2020, according to research by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
UK tradespeople reported £3.5 billion worth of stolen equipment last year, while almost fifty per cent (48%) of van drivers confess to keeping more than £2150 worth of tools in their vans overnight. This means that UK tradespeople are risking up to £5 billion in lost equipment, says VW.
In a freedom of information request, police forces across the UK reported over 9000 complaints relating to tool theft in last year and London remains a hot spot for the crime with over 6000 reports in the Capital alone.
From a financial perspective, van owners who are on the receiving end of tool theft are also at risk of an increase in future insurance premiums.
With thefts on the rise, VW has offered its top tips on the best ways van drivers can protect their vehicles:
- Be a conscious parker – When possible, ensure that the van is parked in a well-lit place which is visible to passers-by, not in areas which are secluded and dark
- Stay alert, be aware – Check your surroundings before offloading your tools – savvy thieves can spot a high value tool and are willing to take risks to steal them
- Track your vehicle – Consider fitting your van, or tools, with a tracking device so that you can see where they are at all times
- ‘No tools on board’ – The best way to prevent your tools from being stolen is to not leave them in the van, especially overnight. If you remove your vehicles from your van, then consider affixing a sign to the van saying ‘no tools left in vehicle overnight’
- Take note – 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 – Sometimes tools have to be left in a vehicle, in a vulnerable location. If this is the case, then 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
The van manufacturer says it understands the importance of incorporating theft prevention technology into its vehicles, to protect van owners. The all-electric ID. Buzz Cargo is fitted with an anti-theft alarm system, interior monitoring in the cab, back-up horn and towing protection as standard. When activated, the anti-theft alarm system sounds the horn and activates the hazard lights, ensuring that bypassers are aware there has been an unwelcome intrusion.
More information about the ID. Buzz Cargo can be found here: ID. Buzz Cargo | Electric Cargo Van | Volkswagen Vans UK (volkswagen-vans.co.uk)
