Van security has never been as big a concern to individuals and businesses as it is today, with the value of vans and their contents only getting higher. Initially, the world of Van Locks can be overwhelming, with specialist jargon and seemingly endless choices to secure your van. What is the best choice for your van and your personal circumstances? Let us help you, this article will take you through the spectrum of van locks and their unique features!

Slam Locks

Slam locks offer the unique ability to automatically lock your van door immediately after it is shut, much like some houses’ front doors. This is in stark contrast to the more commonly used systems that require the owner to manually secure each lock. Slam locks are the ideal choice for multi-drop delivery drivers where you are regularly leaving your van. They are also ideal for those who live or work in urban areas as they can be fitted to van cab doors to prevent driver hijacking in traffic. Slam locks can be integrated into the original central locking system, meaning the driver can use their key-fob to unlock the central locking which will then release the slam lock mechanism.

Dead Locks

The van Dead Lock is a mechanical locking device that is completely separate to the locking mechanism that is factory installed. They work in a similar way to the deadbolt fittings that are commonly found on front doors in the home. It is very important to note that, unlike slam locks, Dead Locks do not automatically lock upon closing and will require a key for operation. Dead Locks have a solitary deadbolt that offers the door additional strength and protection by securing itself in the receiver built into the door opposite. They can only be unlocked from the outside with the key, so somebody who’s broken a window would not be able to unlock the deadbolt from the inside. Dead Locks work in tandem with the manufacturer lock to provide an extra layer of protection. Dead Locks are perfect for tradespeople who are happy to use the factory lock during their workday but wish to have an additional layer of protection in the evening, where they can call upon the Dead Lock to ensure the security of their vehicle and its contents.

Hook Locks

The Hook Lock is a variant of the aforementioned deadbolt design, with the bolt engaging into a receiver on the opposite side of the door. However, with a Hook Lock, the deadbolt itself is hook shaped and hooks into and under the receiver. It works in all of the same ways as the Dead Lock, however it crucially has the amazing ability to negate the use of a crowbar almost entirely, providing excellent protection against tearing.

We hope that this guide has shed some light on some different types of security available and the best van security locks with their unique features and benefits.