Why Van Theft Remains a Major Risk for UK Businesses
The True Cost of Van Theft for UK Trades and Small Businesses
Despite improvements in vehicle security, van theft remains a significant problem across the UK. For business owners, the impact extends beyond the loss of a vehicle to include lost productivity, missed work and costly replacements.
In 2024, over 11,000 vans were reported stolen nationwide, representing an estimated loss of nearly £200 million. Fewer than 40% of stolen vans were recovered, leaving many businesses to absorb the remaining cost.
This follows a long-standing trend. Between 2016 and 2019, more than 43,000 vans were stolen, demonstrating that van crime remains a persistent issue.
Vehicles Most at Risk
The most widely used vans are also the most targeted.
The Ford Transit continues to dominate theft statistics, accounting for more than half of all stolen vans in 2024.
Other commonly targeted models include:
Mercedes Sprinter
Peugeot Boxer
Vauxhall Vivaro
Citroën Relay
High demand for parts and resale value drives continued interest from organised criminals.
The Scale of Tool Theft
In many cases, thieves focus on the contents rather than the vehicle itself. Police data highlights thousands of thefts from vans each year, with tools being the primary target.
London alone recorded close to 9,600 tool theft incidents in 2024, while regional forces such as Essex have reported thousands more over recent years.
What Happens to Stolen Property
Stolen vans are often stripped or exported after being re-identified. Tools are typically sold quickly through informal resale channels, making recovery difficult.
Reducing the Risk
Practical steps can significantly reduce exposure:
Additional locks and immobilisers
Tracking devices
Secure parking
Removing tools overnight
Keeping an inventory of equipment
Ensuring insurance cover reflects real-world risk is also essential.
Why Prevention Matters
Van theft affects schedules, income and reputation. With theft levels remaining high, proactive security and suitable insurance remain the most effective defence for UK businesses.
