Protecting Your Commercial Vehicles from Theft: Strategies for Utes and Vans

Work vehicles such as utes and vans are often targeted by thieves for valuable items. The following tips can help safeguard your work vehicle from theft.

, and Administrator

2025 September 19 . 8:53 PM

2 min read

Strategies for Protecting Your Work Vehicles: Tips for Securing Trucks and Vans Against Theft

Protecting Your Commercial Vehicles from Theft: Strategies for Utes and Vans

The rise of online retail and home delivery has brought about new types of theft, including the exploitation of home delivery systems for illegal activities. This trend has also led to an increase in the theft of work vehicles, particularly popular models such as the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger, which are currently high in demand on the used car market.

According to the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council, there were 41,000 cases of items stolen from vehicles during the year ending March 2022. In Victoria alone, the Toyota HiLux was one of the most stolen vehicles during the 2021-22 period. To help protect your work vehicles from theft, the CEO of Neighbourhood Watch, Bambi Gordon, recommends the following measures.

Secure Parking

Park your work vehicle in well-lit, secure areas such as gated or monitored parking lots, or within business premises or secure locations with security personnel.
If a garage is available, park the work vehicle inside each night or whenever not working.
Avoid parking work vehicles in isolated or poorly lit areas that may be more vulnerable to theft.

Safety Measures

Keeping an inventory of gear, including their serial numbers, at www.propertyvault.com.au can help police identify recovered tools and report stolen tools.
Labeling tools and equipment with business names or identifiable markings can deter theft and aid in recovery if stolen.
Install anti-theft screws on number plates to help prevent car theft.
Use quality locking mechanisms like steering wheel locks, tire locks, and electronic immobilizers to prevent unauthorized access to work vehicles.

Preventing Opportunities for Theft

It's important to lock up work vehicles and doors when making deliveries.
Leaving work vehicles unlocked and unattended, especially during deliveries, can provide opportunities for theft.
Leaving valuables, including tools, raw materials, and sellable goods, on display in work vehicles can also attract thieves.
Covering up ute traybacks, sliding van doors shut, and getting windows tinted can help prevent theft.

By following these simple yet effective measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of your work vehicle being targeted by thieves. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry.