Protect your tools with a secure van box

Now more than ever, it’s important to keep a close eye on your tools.

Theft rates are at an all-time high.

In a recent white paper by On The Tools, it was revealed that four in five (78%) tradespeople had experienced tool theft – collectively costing them an eye-watering £2.8 billion. And on average, a tool has been stolen every 17 minutes in the UK since March 2021.

It’s a growing epidemic and, unsurprisingly, it’s taking a financial toll.

After all, for most tradespeople, no tools = no work. Without the right equipment, you’re left with no choice but to turn jobs down. And once you factor in the cost of replacing the stolen tools, it can leave you significantly out of pocket.  

It seems, locking your tools in the van and hoping for the best is no longer enough.

So what can you do to keep your equipment safe and protect your livelihood?

Van storage boxes

The no.1 way to keep your tools safe and sound.

Van boxes offer the best possible protection against this current surge in tool thefts.

Essentially, they’re a big metal box – designed to keep unwanted intruders out.

Typically constructed from sheet steel and fitted with a range of security features, such as deadbolts and anti-jemmy bars, they’re incredibly difficult to access without a key. And as most can be fixed permanently to your vehicle’s interior, they significantly reduce the likelihood of forced entry.

Perhaps your van is your base? Or your frequently leave tools unattended in your van onsite?

Either way, a van storage box will provide a secure space to keep your valuable equipment and essential kit – ensuring items are organised and, crucially, don’t end up in the wrong hands.

Here at eSafes, we have so many great options to choose from.

Our online collection features van tool boxes by some of the UK’s leading brands, including Armorgard, Sentribox and Van Vault. All of which have an excellent specification; with some accredited by the police for their strength, resilience and durability.

And whatever your preferences or requirements – whether you drive a compact transit van or a large long-wheelbase, wish to store one or two expensive power tools or your entire kit – you’re sure to find a size and style that’s suitable.

Ramp up the protection of your tools

In addition to investing in a van tool chest, there are plenty of other (relatively easy) ways to maximise the security of your tools and reduce your chances of burglary.

1. Organise your van

It doesn’t matter how long your day has been – don’t be tempted to simply throw your tools in the back of the van and head home. Not only does the untidiness make an intruder’s job much easier, in the unfortunate event of a burglary, it also makes missing items much harder to identify.

Van boxes are an easy way to keep things organised. Take the time to put tools back in their place and ensure you know where everything is.

2. Put up a sign

Sometimes, old school methods are the most effective.

Even if you do intend to keep your tools in a van storage box, inside the van itself, it’s worth popping a sign on the outside door that says, ‘No tools are kept in this van overnight!’.

It’s a simple measure, but one that acts a fantastic deterrent. If an opportunistic thief passes by, why would they take the risk of breaking in, when there’s a chance there won’t be anything inside?

3. Install an alarm

Of course, most modern vans now come with an in-built alarm as standard. But where’s the harm in adding an extra level of security?

Countless options are now available online, allowing you to upgrade your van alarm system for a reasonable price. Most of which are very easy to self-install, will send instant ‘intruder alerts’ to your smartphone (before any damage is done) and allow you to track your vehicle if it’s stolen.

A visible alarm system also doubles as an effective deterrent.

Give yourself peace of mind, get yourself a van box

As the cost of living crisis continues, tool theft has become a huge (costly!) problem in the UK – and it’s one that’s only likely to get worse in the coming months.

If you’re a tradesperson, protecting your tools should be your top priority. So why not start by picking out a van box from our collection?

Priced from just £244.80 (inc. VAT), a van tool box is an affordable investment, which will significantly reduce your risk of becoming the next victim of this tool theft epidemic. And when you consider the money it could save you in the long run, it’s worth every single penny.

Take a look at the models available and if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our in-house experts have excellent knowledge of the van tool storage options currently available in our store and should be able to point you in the right direction for your needs.

Either call us on 0800 783 2328 or send an email to info@esafes.co.uk and we’ll respond to your enquiry as soon as possible.