Van Theft in the UK: Risks, Trends and How to Protect Your Business
Van Theft... the Facts
Van theft continues to be a serious issue across the United Kingdom. For tradespeople and small businesses, it is not just the loss of a vehicle. It can mean cancelled jobs, lost income and costly tool replacement.
Recent data highlights the scale of the problem. In 2024, more than 11,000 vans were reported stolen across the UK. That’s around 31 vans every day. The estimated value of those vehicles was close to £200 million. Recovery rates remain low, with only about 39 per cent of stolen vans returned to their owners.
This follows a long term pattern of high van theft levels. Between 2016 and 2019, more than 43,000 vans were stolen across the UK, averaging around 30 per day.
Which Vans Are Most Commonly Stolen?
Unsurprisingly, the most popular vans on British roads are also the most attractive to thieves.
The Ford Transit remains the most frequently stolen van in the UK. In 2024 alone, around 5,900 Ford Transits were reported stolen. That accounts for more than half of all van thefts recorded that year.
Other regularly targeted models include the Mercedes Sprinter, Peugeot Boxer, Vauxhall Vivaro and Citroën Relay. High demand for parts and strong resale markets make these vehicles particularly appealing to organised crime groups.
Theft From Vans: A Costly Epidemic
In many cases, of course, thieves don’t take the vehicle... they just break in and steal tools and equipment.
Police data obtained via Freedom of Information requests shows that thousands of thefts from vans are recorded each year. For example, Essex Police recorded 2,382 thefts of items from vans between 2022 and early 2024. The most common items stolen were construction tools and electrical equipment.
Source: Essex Police FOI
London has also seen sharp increases in tool theft. Reports indicate that tool theft from vans rose by around 70 per cent over four years, reaching nearly 9,600 recorded incidents in 2024.
For many tradespeople, the loss of tools can be more damaging than the loss of the van itself. Specialist equipment is expensive and often difficult to replace quickly.
Where Do Stolen Vans and Tools End Up?
Stolen vans are frequently moved rapidly through organised criminal networks. Some are dismantled for parts within hours. Others are given false identities and shipped abroad.
UK vehicle crime analysis shows that stolen vehicles intercepted at ports have been destined for countries including the United Arab Emirates and parts of Africa. Electronics and other goods are sometimes traced to international resale markets.
Tools stolen from vans are often resold through informal channels. These can include car boot sales (we’ve all seen them?!), online marketplaces, and small independent resellers. Quick resale reduces the chance of recovery.
How Owners Can Reduce the Risk
No security measure is perfect. However, layered protection can significantly reduce risk.
Practical steps include:
Installing additional deadlocks and high quality steering wheel locks
Fitting approved tracking devices and immobilisers
Parking in well lit or secure areas wherever possible
Removing tools overnight rather than leaving them in the van
Marking and registering tools to make resale harder
GPS tracking systems can improve recovery rates, particularly when monitored. Visible security devices also act as a deterrent. Criminals tend to target the easiest opportunity.
Insurance plays a critical role too. Owners should ensure both the vehicle and its contents are properly insured, with accurate declared values. Keeping receipts and maintaining an inventory of tools can make claims smoother if the worst happens.
The Business Impact
Van theft is not only a crime statistic. It disrupts livelihoods. Missed appointments, reputational damage and the stress of dealing with police and insurers all carry a cost.
With thousands of vans stolen each year and tool theft continuing to rise in urban areas, prevention is essential. Physical security, sensible parking habits and appropriate insurance cover remain the most effective defence.
