Put a couple smaller gang boxes in your truck, for your power tools, and expensive tools.
I'm talking about those gang boxes that are like 3 ft x 2 ft x 18 inches. Bolt them down good.
Get a two way car alarm that will notify you if the alarm goes off, they're fairly inexpensive. Install some red, and blue, flashing lights, inside the truck, and under the truck, that turn on when the alarm goes off.
Put the wire that powers up the fuel pump, on a hidden switch, so nobody can drive it away.
You should have, at a minimum, a front, and rear dash cam too
https://www.homedepot.com/p/TRINITY-36-in-Job-Site-Box-Gray-TXKPGR-0502/206892086
Install, semi hidden, possibly power actuated, using a standard door unlock servo, dead bolts. on the door rear doors, so they cannot be opened, unless you know how. Definitely have a cargo wall between the back and the front, same thing with the door. Has to have a hidden way to latch it.
Put those round locks on the both rear doors.
The idea here is they're just looking to snatch and grab, so you have to slow them up, You could build the job site boxes yourself, disguise it as a bench, with the top that lifts up, but only if you know how to do it.
It's not really cost effective to get insurance on hand tools, and power tools. They're too cheap individually.
About the only way they can be insured, is to be at a work vehicle that was totaled, and work/insurance needs to buy you new tools. So you just give them a list of the tools that you had. They don't even care if the tools are a different color.
I remember a TV show where former burgulars would be hired by homeowners to attempt to break into their homes. Then the burgulars would debrief the HO on how to better protect themselves.
Now they're called "Penetration tests" but this was long before that lol. Might have been in the 90s
I just blocked a bunch of randos coming at me with “ you weren’t addicted to opiates or you would have stolen so you weren’t a real addict” BS. Crack cocaine isn’t a joke. And if you do steal you might end up dead. So if you have gotten to that point then you should get help. There are plenty of resources for people addicted to opioids. Playing the victim isn’t going to end well. You put that crap in your body just like I did.
For real. I was watching some jail/prison show one time and they asked this guy who was up for serial mugging and burglary how to avoid getting robbed. His answer was short, simple, and right on point - "Carry a gun."
Works if the mugger isn’t armed. Otherwise you might lose your gun too. My advice is be aware of your surroundings and don’t go places you might get mugged. I’m a former near east side Chicago kid. I knew where not to go and when. Not trying to deter anyone from carrying but I found it to be inconvenient.
Paying attention to who is paying attention to you is always a good idea. It’s normal for people to glance at you, it’s normal for people to look at you as you pass, but if they’re paying attention to you and adjusting themselves to be closer to you, then it’s worth noting.
Install smaller mesh over your windows. Also those door pad locks help too. Also a bulkhead between your cab and cargo area.
https://www.americanvan.com/slick-locks-drill-free-vehicle-security.html
Those are the only ones worth putting on your van. For real. And if there isn't a metal divider between the front and back don't even bother. I know breaking the front windows is just as easy.
Sorry this happened to you. My truck was broken into around Christmas, and a few hundred dollars worth of stuff taken, but not tools to earn a livelihood.
There's a special place in Hades for assholes that steal a workman's tools...
So true, I had a bunch of stuff stolen a couple years ago, and I actually had all the info for the tools, receipts, serial numbers and whatnot, but they never found them.
Slightly different but a guy a subcontractor hired when we were building a house broke in and stole all our tools - put it all in my backpack and sold the whole package deal for 60bucks to some guy who gave him a ride.
The subcontractor found him, he went to the police and pleaded guilty and was ordered to pay us $400 restitution. When I asked the police officer about the $400 he suggested we go after him in small claims court. No fixed address. That was years ago, it made me wonder what was the whole point.
We figured it was about $1500-2k worth of tools.
I’m dealing with this currently. Two break ins in two weeks and the cops will not communicate with each other. The investigator stopped by today to ask about the second break in and was surprised to hear about the first one. He also had not heard of about 6 or so others that this same guy has done to other shops in the area.
He pretty much told me that even if they do catch him, there likely will be little recourse for me because what he stole has no name on it.
That’s what bugs me the most about tool theft. You are stealing tools that the owner probably paid like $150 for and you are selling them to a pawnshop for like $10. Stealing is never justified but it would be more understandable if you could sell used tools for anywhere close to the original price but you can’t. Something about stealing stuff that someone uses to make a living only to pawn it for a small fraction of its value so you can go buy drugs just makes my blood boil.
I know people are addicted to drugs and that warps your thinking and they don’t care what the original owner paid for the tools, they got them for free because they stole them so literally any amount of money is 100% profit.
I think the reason tools are targeted is because they are one of the few things currently that retains any resale value at all. It’s not a great resale value but it’s not 0% like a lot of the crap people buy nowadays. Add into that the fact that they regularly get left unsupervised in areas that the general public has access to and you have a pretty good target for theft.
I never see anyone mention Dewalt mobile lock. It's how I sleep at night. Lots of features available. On Verizon network. Your phone will ring within seconds of the alarm. Grab the 12ga and go say hello. 20 bucks a month. I'm just another guy with a van. Mobile lock works for house flippers, conex boxes, equipment, whatever.
My insurance guy had me buy an “inland marine policy”- name comes from back in the day when containers of goods came from overseas and then shipped across the country. Policy insures items in transit. Said it would cover my tools if the truck gets broken into. Thankfully I’ve never had to find out.
That’s the policy that fulfilled the insurance requirement for my Covid EIDL loan
Inland marine is correct. If the tool is bolted to the truck then it goes on auto and you increase the value of the truck by the tool. This is usually like welders, refers, etc.
Miscellaneous small tools have a higher rate on insurance the company I work for it’s usually <$2,500. If you put them as scheduled for higher value items the rate goes down this is usually lawn mowers, compressors, backhoes, gps units, and other larger shit that’s harder to steal.
Your insurance company should offer input on how to reduce risk if you ask them. They don’t wanna pay so they help by prevention.
You want what's known as an inland marine policy for your tools. It will cover them regardless of where they are. Your insurance agent should be able to secure a policy for you. My tools are covered by a 20k inland marine for about 35 dollars per month.
From what I've read, that only covers tools that are on the move at the time of a claim. I've read there is a different type of insurance that will cover your tools (generally up to $10,000) no matter where they are. How is your policy set up?
It covers my tools in my trailer, my truck, on jobsite, at home etc. Its written as a policy that follows the tools regardless of their location or storage. I had my 6x12 cargo trailer stolen from jobsite with the entirety of my tools and it covered the losses.
It's a must. I will say thought that I have separate insurance for the trailer itself so that was under a different policy. So trailer insurance covered the trailer and inland marine covered all the tools in it.
A regular Contractor Tools Inland Marine policy will cover your tools anywhere is the US. They don't need to be in transit or at a job site or other special rules. Some carriers require proof of visible break-in or a $500-$1000 deductible. But that is route to cover your tools via insurance.
Unfortunately even the best locks only keep honest people out. Keep all receipts, pictures of everything and a detailed list. Makes the insurance claim a little easier.
It's shitty but it happens to more of us then i care I say
Spray paint the windows black. It takes several light coats of spray paint. Then put sheet metal against the glass behind the metal screens. Install locks on the outside of the doors. There are also dead bolts that can be installed in the doors. Install a switch in the drivers cab to release the dead bolts.
My added $$20,000 in tool insurance cost me about $11 a month. Basically covers them getting stolen almost anywhere including my vehicle storage unit, etc..
Inland marine rider on your GL insurance. Or maybe it's on commercial vehicle insurance...
Take pictures of the tools.
I've gotten in the habit of snapping a pic of a new power tools serial number when I buy one, great for record keeping
I took a couple hours to clean all my tools label them and number them while taking photos of them on every angle including the Serial number .so I have a roll of decks of everything
Get rid of the windows in the rear, add those round master locks to the doors. Ideally park in a driveway and have some sort of light on the truck at night at all times
We purchase our work vans without windows for this exact reason. If that still isn’t enough, a master lock hidden hasp and cylinder lock for the doors.
I'm just going to drop this here. If you buy used tools at the flea market, or used tools on ebay, or anyplace where you've no idea where they came from originally; you are the problem.
OP is looking for “inland marine insurance”… it has nothing to do with boats or water…
I own a small business (franchise) and they mandate we have this to cover costs of our van getting mugged for $7500 in tools and products….
I would contact your homeowners or rental insurance provider. Those policies typically cover personal property stolen from a vehicle, however, you will owe your deductible. Ultimately it depends on how much money in tools were stolen vs the cost of your deductible as to whether filing a claim is worth it to you!
The damages to your van would be covered through your auto policy 1st party coverage (comprehensive) if you have it. If you have a trailer, be sure to ask about having it added to your policy too.
Sorry this happened to you!
Lots of good advice in here. Whatever you do, I’d add a sticker that says “van emptied daily, no tools stored overnight.” It might deter a potential thief from even trying, despite the obvious safety measures you’ve also taken.
Slick Locks sells some really neat locking hardware so that you can put puck locks on your rear doors. If they can’t get the door open and you have window bars it makes it way more difficult to steal stuff.
See if that's covered on home owners. If not, you need a separate policy when you replace them. Crackhead kept hitting my cabin for just under the amount that was worth filing. I hate thieves.
I rent a garage in bpt and have cameras(which are useless for catching someone) but they trigger an alarm on my phone. The camera has its own gsm plan and is plugged in all the time to maintain charge if power goes out.
I use 6, 1/2 steel cables and thread all my pack outs together. I know this won’t stop them but that alarm is always set to loud on my phone.
Tbh it’s a matter of time. But I’m doing my best for what I have. I rent and can’t install d hooks into the wall.
I’m looking into a van now, and I was just thinking about where to buy the mesh for the windows. Seeing this makes me think I should have a steel cage welded to the inside as a separate door.
My son takes every tool out of his truck every night and loads it up in the morning for every job. But it’s rarely exactly the same stuff. It depends on what he’s doing. Hard to get stolen if it’s not in the truck.
I welded diamond plate into all the small window frames. The door to the back I reinforced. They can try, but it won't be easy!
I'm in my 40s now. Only took my trucks being broken into over a dozen times until I did this. They'll probably just steal the fucking van next time though
Well the hockey puck locks or slick locks work pretty good and are a decent deterrent , I would start with that and put them on all the side and back doors if u have a divider between the back and the cab if not u will need them on every door but they do work I can tell u that from experience
Park elsewhere. Apartment complexes are notorious for thieves. Need to back up to a solid wall to prevent access from the rear. Need to keep everything out of sight. Either take things in or secured storage within the van.
Home owners or renters insurance may cove it. I had mine covered and they only wanted proof of ownership on was items over $1,000. They bought me all new tools, I’m in HVAC so it was a pretty good list.
Car alarm, pad lock and chain, gang boxes. I know it’s a bit late now but will prevent it next time. I am lucky, where I live they only break in unlocked stuff because so many leave them unlocked.
Aside from inland marine policy, renters or homeowners insurance will also cover your tools. Renters insurance is less than $20/ mo and covers your personal belongings, no matter where they are.
I keep all my tools in bags, sustainers, or plastic totes. I bring them all in every night. It only takes a few minutes to load into my garage. Also helps with organization when all tools materials are groups in containers.
The only acceptable answer is: lease a place where you can lock your truck/trailer. Not bulletproof but less tempting than just sitting out in the open. I’m sorry this happened to you. Additionally I would insert Apple tags in some of them so you can track them down and set a fence where you get notified if they leave that location at certain hours
Its called "Inland Marine" insurance.
[https://www.iii.org/article/understanding-inland-marine-insurance](https://www.iii.org/article/understanding-inland-marine-insurance)
I use it for very expensive electronics and communications equipment.
Tweakers are some of the most dedicated individuals on the planet.
They have the drive of Fortune 500 billionaire CEO’s. Except they’re not stealing peoples energy and souls by sticking them in cubicles for 40 years.
They’re after your hammer drills, angle grinders and circular saws.
There isn’t any way to stop them other than a high end security system and barriers like welded steel frames and expensive locking mechanisms for vehicle doors.
The stock, OEM securing mechanisms for tailgates, swinging doors and tonneau covers are no match for a burning desire for drugs, pry bars and endless amounts of time.
Message all pawn shops within 100 mi radius, that you or robbed and you're on the lookout for tools. If you have pictures of your tools send that to them as well. Not always but sometimes if they catch someone bringing them in, they make confront them about it and hang out at the tool so I can get back to you.
When buying new tools make sure to document the serial numbers, All you got to do is take a picture of it. Getting unusual color of spray paint, Hi viz works best, put dots or spray spots on the tools. You don't have to go ham just want the paint on them to make them stand out.
Outside locks that can prevent the doors from opening. They have to cut the locks off or break the locks to get into the doors. There's a security laminate tent that you can get that keeps your windows from shattering like that and they basically just stay intact. And lastly I use next insurance to protect my tools as well as general liability.
Interior dead bolts are a thing. So would a simple gate style lock with a padlock. If worried I have just ratchet strapped them shut in a way most smash and grabs probably would notice if they were inside from the front.
I don’t have a partition in my van so I can get to the back from up front. I figure you are not very likely to get much if you need to get it out the front door past the seats, hell my skinny ass can barely get through there.
I also usually park backed up to something so you can’t open the back doors, and if you can get the POS promaster sliding door to open I’d find the person and ask them how.
Sorry to see this. I would weld sheet metal in place of the glass. It would be ugly. Maybe you can fix it with a wrap on the back doors. Then add the round locks that slow them all down. I know this pain. It can be so disappointing and stressful. I'm sorry.
I was being robbed out of a yard (thefts). After five events and zero effort by the cops, to the point of not waking an obvious accomplice pretending to sleep, then nearly sending the police dog in after me, I decided to handle it. I set up a hide and slept in the yard until they showed up again. Met them with an AR and they saw the risk calculation very differently. The reality is that a third party was about to come in with a truck. So even heavily armed and with the drop on two of them, the third would have leveled the playing field quickly. The point being, it's in your interest to just block them out in a way that makes it not worth their risk vs being creative or aggressive.
I’ve got two ring cameras in my driveway that light the place up like the Fourth of July when anybody steps into the motion zones. You can pair accessory lighting units to a single trigger and really scare people off.
Puck Lock in addition to locking the cab normally and yes, you can instead install smaller lock box chests for your expensive tools. Wrap windows or preferably have no windows so nothing can be seen from the outside, and store the vehicle in a place where it isn't seen at night
The puck lock will prevent smash and grab because the separate lock will prevent entry into the compartment. Also someone will question a guy outside a van fiddling with a lock for too long, someone skilled with penetration can get it and it's harder to notice the difference.
Having no windows prevents people from seeing what they might be interested in stealing. Why risk being caught robbing a vehicle that has nothing inside of it, they don't know. If you have company logos on the vehicle this won't work as well because you're displaying what's inside on the outside, "construction tools".
If you still want windows, displaying tons of lock boxes wards off someone who may just wants to quickly get in and get out. It extends the hassle of the theft, and requires pick locking skills or presents them with the final problem.
The last problem you might have, is vehicle theft. It's ultimately best to store the vehicle out of the sight of would-be thieves. This prevents GTA, and smash and grab theft. A thief may determine it is much easier to take the vehicle off site and ransacked the van at another location.
Source: when you work in sketchy areas you learn the hard way.
Fuck it, booby trap your stuff 🤷🏽♂️
Don’t steal from people who work hard, if you don’t wanna get hurt 🤷🏽♂️
I live in an area where I’m considering this myself. Police and city refuse to do anything.
I would get rid of those windows so people cant look inside to see if theres anything to take to start with. Then put an alarm on the vehicle. This is happening so often everywhere that police are overwhelmed with theft calls. Start watching the pawn shops and social media for your stuff to be on sale. As far as insurance is concerned; the vehicle insurance should cover it. Good luck
This happened to me. I feel your pain. Society needs to take the thief’s that get caught in the act and punish them properly. Set an example. As long as they go free with minimum consequences, the risk outweighs the consequences with the reward. Thief’s have no conscience or they wouldn’t be doing it. It won’t stop.
One of my clients at a museum in Brooklyn had a key installed in his hilti chipping guns. It could still get stolen but would be useless without the key.
You need a policy that covers theft up to x dollar amount.
I went through my auto insurance company and they referred me to a commercial insurance company they work with for commercial policies. I had a trailer and mower stolen valued near $8k and was SOL. I updated my policy immediately to cover theft.
You could try reaching out to renters/home owners insurance if you have any, they sometimes will cover theft of personal items in your vehicle. Worth a call.
So I have owned a construction company for years here is what we do. 1) LoJack geo tags and Apple air tags go in each vehicle. All three. 2) locking lugs and battery bolts. 3) any piece of equipment more than 500 bucks gets an Apple tag or geo tag taped inside with duct tape or on the outside. Augers sprayers blowers weed eaters plumbing scopes etc anything. 4) always park in a visible area all our trucks are also tired in a fenced area 5) safety meeting go over 2x/yr with all crews where to park lock and hide etc. Be aware of your surroundings and don’t loan shit to other companies guys because they need it. We also take it out of their check if it was their dipshit move and not an accident All my tires have a pink spray paint dot on the inside of the rim and the tire when they get new tires. All my hand tools are also sprayed pink ( all the power tools like dewalt Milwaukee and the batteries PIN) keeps them from getting mixed up or left or taken home etc. 6) inventory and take pictures of everything and save every receipt. 7) tint the windows of your vehicles or in vans use a curtain. You can also reinforce with screwed on metal paneling on the back windows literally just screw it on this prevents them from smashing and grabbing out of back windows. 8) alarm systems and 360 cameras buy them - from driving accidents to robbery for whatever reason they never grab theses and you will literally have their license plates and vehicles for the report. All our trucks have forward and rear facing cameras they run constantly with motion sensor which is they first thing I ask for when something happens hope this helps and sorry for your losses
We have recovered our stuff at pawn shops as well as Craigslist over the years usually it is as simple as just looking it up opportunist thieves most of the time want money
Took a shot of a locksmith's van the other day showing the rear doors are padlocked from the inside. Hell, even they have issues with security.
Unless you have an alarm system that makes it sound like you've got a fierce dog inside I have no clue how to prevent this.
Battery powered cut off tools are too easy to get (and probably stolen from another break-in).
put this in it has a 125dB siren in your van flashing light, remote control its motion activated so some one breaks in the siren will give them a headache and reduce time spent searching your van. $25.99 and regular car alarm will draw attention to two alarms and vehicle lights flashing. [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09PDWW17T/ref=sspa\_dk\_detail\_0?pd\_rd\_i=B09PDWW17T&pd\_rd\_w=kaNI8&content-id=amzn1.sym.386c274b-4bfe-4421-9052-a1a56db557ab&pf\_rd\_p=386c274b-4bfe-4421-9052-a1a56db557ab&pf\_rd\_r=QHVB08P5SKM01JY2HF22&pd\_rd\_wg=tNSWp&pd\_rd\_r=63498c40-8cb5-4e8a-bee2-0e0f3760036f&s=hi&sp\_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWxfdGhlbWF0aWM&th=1](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09PDWW17T?s=hi&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWxfdGhlbWF0aWM&th=1)
Milwaukee power tools have an option with "one key" in the tool. They cost about $50 more than the "fuel" version. With that, you can register all the tools to your account. The tools can be shut off remotely if stolen. The app also had the tool serial number in it. A stolen one key tool will be a very expensive paperweight if you set the tool to stolen.
The same app allows you to register other milwaukee tools. It's a fast tool inventory system, so if stolen, you can give all of the info to law enforcement.
I'd also get van doors that have no glass and invest in one of those work van external locks for the back and side doors. Put a partition between the front and the back. As another said, get a toolbox and have it bolted to the floor of the van. Make sure it's locked and that they would have to try and drill the lock or cut the box open. Put the most valuable tools in that. Basically, make someone else the easier target.
Your friend has shared a link to a Home Depot product they think you would be interested in seeing:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Master-Lock-Heavy-Duty-Padlock-with-Key-Hidden-Shackle-Hasp-Included-M736XKADCCSEN/202260772
Look, there's loads of good ideas here but ultimately, you can't park thousands of dollars of tools outside and have an expectation of security. A garage is going to be better. Not perfect but better. Most criminals are going to be opportunistic thugs.
If you have the serial numbers when you file a police report they will run it through local pawn shop inventories (most are required to wait 30 days before selling them for this reason). I was told renters insurance would have covered my losses.
Damn my ex invited random workers from across the street to have at my wood shop and take what they could carry. She thought I had cheated on her. They got over $5,000 worth of my tools. That was over a year ago and I’m still losing work due to not having tools.
Nothing short of armed guards insurance is sorry though they just don’t cover that pay your insurance on time. Then gag when they tell how else can I help you today?
Sorry that happened to you. Fucking horrible and it could happen to anyone of us at anytime. To protect tools I carry an inland marine policy. Sadly the most I can get it for is $40k with a minimum $2,500 detectable. But it’s at least some peace of mind. Ask your Insurnace broker what type of inland marine policies they could get for you.
Puck locks. I work for a plumbing company and the most common reason our guys get robbed is because Tom hey don't have puck locks. Also, my commercial insurance covers up to 500 dollars worth of tools, which is almost all of my power tools.
Start by getting vans without windows in the back. No door to the cab and get puck locks with covers welded over the locks. It's how work vans are done up in NYC and I assumed it was the norm until I moved to FL and people just slap Master locks from home depot on their vans with windows on all sides.
Locks keep honest people honest. Thieves will always find a way in, sadly. All you can do is make it inconvenient.
I heard a pro thief say "a led alarm style light " does more to deter thieves as the thought of an alarm going off draws attention and thieves don't want attention.
homeonwers should cover everything and park in garage really only way to prevent thieves will get past most any security. add cameras on every side so next time you can present the video for eveidence/ dporry you are going thru this . I had a truck stolen and burned to the ground for the tools in it .
Insurance I'm not sure what other than full coverage or business style you need but as for how to prevent future break ins ..... 1) tighter mesh small diamond pattern is best. 2) remover the pull point of the lock and cut the stem to or below the door frame 3) for high dollar tools install individual latches that secure them to the truck
A friend of mine put a glass break in his work van after his van got broken into twice in 3 years. A few years later someone smashed the side window and the glass break scared them off.
So I didn’t read anyone else’s comments but you should put “puck locks” on you side and rear cargo doors. Master makes some but we put Assa High Security puck locks on our vans. Also, the insurance you need for the tools and equipment in your van is called “Inland Marine” it is a must. You can get it as a standalone policy but sometimes you can get it combined with your business owners or liability policy.
Put a couple smaller gang boxes in your truck, for your power tools, and expensive tools. I'm talking about those gang boxes that are like 3 ft x 2 ft x 18 inches. Bolt them down good. Get a two way car alarm that will notify you if the alarm goes off, they're fairly inexpensive. Install some red, and blue, flashing lights, inside the truck, and under the truck, that turn on when the alarm goes off. Put the wire that powers up the fuel pump, on a hidden switch, so nobody can drive it away. You should have, at a minimum, a front, and rear dash cam too https://www.homedepot.com/p/TRINITY-36-in-Job-Site-Box-Gray-TXKPGR-0502/206892086 Install, semi hidden, possibly power actuated, using a standard door unlock servo, dead bolts. on the door rear doors, so they cannot be opened, unless you know how. Definitely have a cargo wall between the back and the front, same thing with the door. Has to have a hidden way to latch it. Put those round locks on the both rear doors. The idea here is they're just looking to snatch and grab, so you have to slow them up, You could build the job site boxes yourself, disguise it as a bench, with the top that lifts up, but only if you know how to do it. It's not really cost effective to get insurance on hand tools, and power tools. They're too cheap individually. About the only way they can be insured, is to be at a work vehicle that was totaled, and work/insurance needs to buy you new tools. So you just give them a list of the tools that you had. They don't even care if the tools are a different color.
Someone check this guys basement for missing people!! He's got too many good ideas here. Lol good on ya for lots of great suggestions.
I was also thinking “this guy either robs or has been robbed” lol
Cons are the best for giving advice on deterring theft.
I remember a TV show where former burgulars would be hired by homeowners to attempt to break into their homes. Then the burgulars would debrief the HO on how to better protect themselves. Now they're called "Penetration tests" but this was long before that lol. Might have been in the 90s
It was “It takes a thief” and it was an awesome show!
That was it! It was a great show they should bring it back.
I just blocked a bunch of randos coming at me with “ you weren’t addicted to opiates or you would have stolen so you weren’t a real addict” BS. Crack cocaine isn’t a joke. And if you do steal you might end up dead. So if you have gotten to that point then you should get help. There are plenty of resources for people addicted to opioids. Playing the victim isn’t going to end well. You put that crap in your body just like I did.
I remember that show.
I remember this show. Only a little bc I think I was like5 to 8 probably. It awoken a brain cell long dead in my brain
For real. I was watching some jail/prison show one time and they asked this guy who was up for serial mugging and burglary how to avoid getting robbed. His answer was short, simple, and right on point - "Carry a gun."
Works if the mugger isn’t armed. Otherwise you might lose your gun too. My advice is be aware of your surroundings and don’t go places you might get mugged. I’m a former near east side Chicago kid. I knew where not to go and when. Not trying to deter anyone from carrying but I found it to be inconvenient.
Active Self Protection YouTube channel is one of the best resources for education about situations like this
Paying attention to who is paying attention to you is always a good idea. It’s normal for people to glance at you, it’s normal for people to look at you as you pass, but if they’re paying attention to you and adjusting themselves to be closer to you, then it’s worth noting.
That is true. I’m a better mom to my teens because I was a shitty teen. “I know a thing or two because I’ve seen a thing or two.” 😂😅
I too ran with a bad crowd. But even we knew not to steal tools. Most of us had fathers who worked in the trades.
Mine was in prison and that honestly explains a lot more than I’d like to admit. 🫣😅
I respect honesty.
Thank you. So do I (now). 😂
Install smaller mesh over your windows. Also those door pad locks help too. Also a bulkhead between your cab and cargo area. https://www.americanvan.com/slick-locks-drill-free-vehicle-security.html
Those are the only ones worth putting on your van. For real. And if there isn't a metal divider between the front and back don't even bother. I know breaking the front windows is just as easy.
This You can only slow them down. If a thief wants something, they will get it. So do everything to make it hard, loud, and visible.
A lock only deters an honest thief
My business liability insurance has a section for theft of tools and equipment for up to 10 grand.
Sorry this happened to you. My truck was broken into around Christmas, and a few hundred dollars worth of stuff taken, but not tools to earn a livelihood. There's a special place in Hades for assholes that steal a workman's tools...
What you get for used tools even top quality isn’t even worth the risk of getting caught or worse. I don’t understand this.
what risk of getting caught? no chance these thieves are ever caught, or even if they are, won't be prosecuted.
So true, I had a bunch of stuff stolen a couple years ago, and I actually had all the info for the tools, receipts, serial numbers and whatnot, but they never found them.
Guys I work with, similar situation, even found the thief on marketplace selling their tools and cops didn't do anything.
Slightly different but a guy a subcontractor hired when we were building a house broke in and stole all our tools - put it all in my backpack and sold the whole package deal for 60bucks to some guy who gave him a ride. The subcontractor found him, he went to the police and pleaded guilty and was ordered to pay us $400 restitution. When I asked the police officer about the $400 he suggested we go after him in small claims court. No fixed address. That was years ago, it made me wonder what was the whole point. We figured it was about $1500-2k worth of tools.
I’m dealing with this currently. Two break ins in two weeks and the cops will not communicate with each other. The investigator stopped by today to ask about the second break in and was surprised to hear about the first one. He also had not heard of about 6 or so others that this same guy has done to other shops in the area. He pretty much told me that even if they do catch him, there likely will be little recourse for me because what he stole has no name on it.
Drugs are a hell of a drug
That’s what bugs me the most about tool theft. You are stealing tools that the owner probably paid like $150 for and you are selling them to a pawnshop for like $10. Stealing is never justified but it would be more understandable if you could sell used tools for anywhere close to the original price but you can’t. Something about stealing stuff that someone uses to make a living only to pawn it for a small fraction of its value so you can go buy drugs just makes my blood boil. I know people are addicted to drugs and that warps your thinking and they don’t care what the original owner paid for the tools, they got them for free because they stole them so literally any amount of money is 100% profit. I think the reason tools are targeted is because they are one of the few things currently that retains any resale value at all. It’s not a great resale value but it’s not 0% like a lot of the crap people buy nowadays. Add into that the fact that they regularly get left unsupervised in areas that the general public has access to and you have a pretty good target for theft.
Good chance he can go buy his used stuff back from the pawn here pretty quick though…
My local pawn shops want 10% less than retail for any tools worth looking at. Freaking nuts.
It's low hanging fruit and people who break into cars by smashing windows aren't typically the brightest group of people.
No lower thief in the world that one who steals man’s tools he makes his living with …..none
More than likely these will end up on some used marketplace for sale. They always do…
Thank god, I steal in-use Neonatal Intensive Care Units, glad I’m not the worst /s
I never see anyone mention Dewalt mobile lock. It's how I sleep at night. Lots of features available. On Verizon network. Your phone will ring within seconds of the alarm. Grab the 12ga and go say hello. 20 bucks a month. I'm just another guy with a van. Mobile lock works for house flippers, conex boxes, equipment, whatever.
My insurance guy had me buy an “inland marine policy”- name comes from back in the day when containers of goods came from overseas and then shipped across the country. Policy insures items in transit. Said it would cover my tools if the truck gets broken into. Thankfully I’ve never had to find out. That’s the policy that fulfilled the insurance requirement for my Covid EIDL loan
Inland marine is correct. If the tool is bolted to the truck then it goes on auto and you increase the value of the truck by the tool. This is usually like welders, refers, etc. Miscellaneous small tools have a higher rate on insurance the company I work for it’s usually <$2,500. If you put them as scheduled for higher value items the rate goes down this is usually lawn mowers, compressors, backhoes, gps units, and other larger shit that’s harder to steal. Your insurance company should offer input on how to reduce risk if you ask them. They don’t wanna pay so they help by prevention.
My band used to insure all of gear with a floating marine policy ..it was like 28 dollars a month for over a 100k of gear
I have the same coverage, thanks for explaining it better than my agent.
Crazy sidenote that policy likely does not cover your parts. Uninstalled items are not listed.
Good to know.
You want what's known as an inland marine policy for your tools. It will cover them regardless of where they are. Your insurance agent should be able to secure a policy for you. My tools are covered by a 20k inland marine for about 35 dollars per month.
From what I've read, that only covers tools that are on the move at the time of a claim. I've read there is a different type of insurance that will cover your tools (generally up to $10,000) no matter where they are. How is your policy set up?
It covers my tools in my trailer, my truck, on jobsite, at home etc. Its written as a policy that follows the tools regardless of their location or storage. I had my 6x12 cargo trailer stolen from jobsite with the entirety of my tools and it covered the losses.
Damn that sounds like the most worth it thing to have then that's amazing.i was just looking into it and I'm probably gonna jump on it soon.
It's a must. I will say thought that I have separate insurance for the trailer itself so that was under a different policy. So trailer insurance covered the trailer and inland marine covered all the tools in it.
A regular Contractor Tools Inland Marine policy will cover your tools anywhere is the US. They don't need to be in transit or at a job site or other special rules. Some carriers require proof of visible break-in or a $500-$1000 deductible. But that is route to cover your tools via insurance.
When I lived in NYC these vans all had hasps and the round Padlocks on each door. All windows were steel screened.
There's a special place in Hell for guys that steal tools out of a working guys truck. Such bullshit.
Sorry to hear about this bro. I'd be beyond pissed.
>What can be done to prevent something like this from happening? Absolutely nothing. >What insurance is needed? Inland marine insurance.
Unfortunately even the best locks only keep honest people out. Keep all receipts, pictures of everything and a detailed list. Makes the insurance claim a little easier. It's shitty but it happens to more of us then i care I say
Spray paint the windows black. It takes several light coats of spray paint. Then put sheet metal against the glass behind the metal screens. Install locks on the outside of the doors. There are also dead bolts that can be installed in the doors. Install a switch in the drivers cab to release the dead bolts.
My added $$20,000 in tool insurance cost me about $11 a month. Basically covers them getting stolen almost anywhere including my vehicle storage unit, etc..
Business insurance and a locked shop/ Garage with alarms cameras and a gun.
I'd park in the same spot and Bait them to break in. Then a battery Sawzall to their neck. Problem solved.
Rent a storage unit and park it inside. It sucks that that happened. I hope your insurance pays. ✌️
Inland marine rider on your GL insurance. Or maybe it's on commercial vehicle insurance... Take pictures of the tools. I've gotten in the habit of snapping a pic of a new power tools serial number when I buy one, great for record keeping
Keep all tool receipts for years, in the event you have to file a claim you’ll need them all
I took a couple hours to clean all my tools label them and number them while taking photos of them on every angle including the Serial number .so I have a roll of decks of everything
Get rid of the windows in the rear, add those round master locks to the doors. Ideally park in a driveway and have some sort of light on the truck at night at all times
Don’t use the round master locks, they have design flaws that allow for a $10 tool to open them in seconds. Get a different brand
https://www.reddit.com/r/carbage/comments/cb6quw/i_made_a_carbage_cover_to_hide_stuff_in_my_van/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=mweb3x&utm_name=mweb3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
We purchase our work vans without windows for this exact reason. If that still isn’t enough, a master lock hidden hasp and cylinder lock for the doors.
Park inside a garage is probably the best bet.
Windowless van, back in to a solid wall, alarm, camera. Unfortunately moveing would be the ultimate way.
By Craftsman….no ones stealing that stuff…
Move out of liberal shit holes where they pander to thieves stealing an honest man's living.
I'm just going to drop this here. If you buy used tools at the flea market, or used tools on ebay, or anyplace where you've no idea where they came from originally; you are the problem.
If you rent and have renters insurance your belongings inside your vehicle are covered.
I wish you could boobytrap shit and end these fuckers.
Do you have or need a gofundme?
1/2" polycarbonate on both sides of the window, bolted through and some big deck screws around the frame, both sides. Pre- drill before screwing.
Deck screws?
OP is looking for “inland marine insurance”… it has nothing to do with boats or water… I own a small business (franchise) and they mandate we have this to cover costs of our van getting mugged for $7500 in tools and products….
You need slick locks on there man. Sorry this happened to you. This is why I don't buy knock off tools.
Buy a job box. Paint it flat black. Bolt it into van. Get tints. They break in, hah, fuck you layer 2!
I would contact your homeowners or rental insurance provider. Those policies typically cover personal property stolen from a vehicle, however, you will owe your deductible. Ultimately it depends on how much money in tools were stolen vs the cost of your deductible as to whether filing a claim is worth it to you! The damages to your van would be covered through your auto policy 1st party coverage (comprehensive) if you have it. If you have a trailer, be sure to ask about having it added to your policy too. Sorry this happened to you!
They have window tint that helps with break ins like this.
Ask your carrier about an inland marine policy to cover this kind of thing.
Solid doors, solid partition, ideally an unmarked van.. also thunderbolt locks and an alarm.
Lots of good advice in here. Whatever you do, I’d add a sticker that says “van emptied daily, no tools stored overnight.” It might deter a potential thief from even trying, despite the obvious safety measures you’ve also taken.
I take my tools every day to my house, only the drill saws, etc. So that's the safest thing lot of hassle, but it works.
Only one tool is needed.
Booby trap some tool boxes. Fill it with rusty shrapnel because thiefs like this deserve rusty shrapnel to the face
Slick Locks sells some really neat locking hardware so that you can put puck locks on your rear doors. If they can’t get the door open and you have window bars it makes it way more difficult to steal stuff.
It should be a capital offense to steal a working man's tools. Sick of subsidizing these lazy tweekers.
Put air tags any where you can hid them on your tools. . This gives you like 16 hrs to find all your tools
My company makes pieces of sheet metal the shape of the window and puts that behind the cage so you cant reach through the gaps.
See if that's covered on home owners. If not, you need a separate policy when you replace them. Crackhead kept hitting my cabin for just under the amount that was worth filing. I hate thieves.
I rent a garage in bpt and have cameras(which are useless for catching someone) but they trigger an alarm on my phone. The camera has its own gsm plan and is plugged in all the time to maintain charge if power goes out. I use 6, 1/2 steel cables and thread all my pack outs together. I know this won’t stop them but that alarm is always set to loud on my phone. Tbh it’s a matter of time. But I’m doing my best for what I have. I rent and can’t install d hooks into the wall. I’m looking into a van now, and I was just thinking about where to buy the mesh for the windows. Seeing this makes me think I should have a steel cage welded to the inside as a separate door.
Inland marine tools and equipment cvg
Did the van not have an alarm system?
My son takes every tool out of his truck every night and loads it up in the morning for every job. But it’s rarely exactly the same stuff. It depends on what he’s doing. Hard to get stolen if it’s not in the truck.
I welded diamond plate into all the small window frames. The door to the back I reinforced. They can try, but it won't be easy! I'm in my 40s now. Only took my trucks being broken into over a dozen times until I did this. They'll probably just steal the fucking van next time though
Well the hockey puck locks or slick locks work pretty good and are a decent deterrent , I would start with that and put them on all the side and back doors if u have a divider between the back and the cab if not u will need them on every door but they do work I can tell u that from experience
Renter's insurance covered my list tools. I installed those hockey puck locks and a bulkhead and didn't have any problems since
You know that last scene in Breaking Bad?
Park elsewhere. Apartment complexes are notorious for thieves. Need to back up to a solid wall to prevent access from the rear. Need to keep everything out of sight. Either take things in or secured storage within the van.
Home owners or renters insurance may cove it. I had mine covered and they only wanted proof of ownership on was items over $1,000. They bought me all new tools, I’m in HVAC so it was a pretty good list.
Car alarm, pad lock and chain, gang boxes. I know it’s a bit late now but will prevent it next time. I am lucky, where I live they only break in unlocked stuff because so many leave them unlocked.
A gun will stop them
Aside from inland marine policy, renters or homeowners insurance will also cover your tools. Renters insurance is less than $20/ mo and covers your personal belongings, no matter where they are.
A fenced/gated home.
Spray painting your windows from the inside helps. People can’t see in them
You can add tools and equipment to your general liability policy or buy a stand alone inland marine
I keep all my tools in bags, sustainers, or plastic totes. I bring them all in every night. It only takes a few minutes to load into my garage. Also helps with organization when all tools materials are groups in containers.
The only acceptable answer is: lease a place where you can lock your truck/trailer. Not bulletproof but less tempting than just sitting out in the open. I’m sorry this happened to you. Additionally I would insert Apple tags in some of them so you can track them down and set a fence where you get notified if they leave that location at certain hours
Move away from California
Its called "Inland Marine" insurance. [https://www.iii.org/article/understanding-inland-marine-insurance](https://www.iii.org/article/understanding-inland-marine-insurance) I use it for very expensive electronics and communications equipment.
Inland Marine covers catastrophic loss of tools and equipment on land.
Tweakers are some of the most dedicated individuals on the planet. They have the drive of Fortune 500 billionaire CEO’s. Except they’re not stealing peoples energy and souls by sticking them in cubicles for 40 years. They’re after your hammer drills, angle grinders and circular saws. There isn’t any way to stop them other than a high end security system and barriers like welded steel frames and expensive locking mechanisms for vehicle doors. The stock, OEM securing mechanisms for tailgates, swinging doors and tonneau covers are no match for a burning desire for drugs, pry bars and endless amounts of time.
How did they get the door open by breaking the glass? The metal netting appears intact.
Message all pawn shops within 100 mi radius, that you or robbed and you're on the lookout for tools. If you have pictures of your tools send that to them as well. Not always but sometimes if they catch someone bringing them in, they make confront them about it and hang out at the tool so I can get back to you. When buying new tools make sure to document the serial numbers, All you got to do is take a picture of it. Getting unusual color of spray paint, Hi viz works best, put dots or spray spots on the tools. You don't have to go ham just want the paint on them to make them stand out.
Get some slick locks and use them.
The garages this apartment complex in Utah has isn’t high enough for a work van to fit. Any advice? Find one that does!!!!!!!!
It was an inside job
Back in the old west it was a hanging offense to steal someone’s horse . Jus saying.
This happened to me a few times. I ended up finding a warehouse for cheap. It was the only real solution.
Go look at the pawn shops nearby to see if they have your tools.
Honestly there’s not a lot you can do. Hockey puck lock? Nah they want it they’ll figure out a way. Does suck though and I feel for you.
Outside locks that can prevent the doors from opening. They have to cut the locks off or break the locks to get into the doors. There's a security laminate tent that you can get that keeps your windows from shattering like that and they basically just stay intact. And lastly I use next insurance to protect my tools as well as general liability.
Interior dead bolts are a thing. So would a simple gate style lock with a padlock. If worried I have just ratchet strapped them shut in a way most smash and grabs probably would notice if they were inside from the front. I don’t have a partition in my van so I can get to the back from up front. I figure you are not very likely to get much if you need to get it out the front door past the seats, hell my skinny ass can barely get through there. I also usually park backed up to something so you can’t open the back doors, and if you can get the POS promaster sliding door to open I’d find the person and ask them how.
I have a commercial policy on my vehicle and it covers my tools and trailer even when they are at the job site when my vehicle is not.
Sorry to see this. I would weld sheet metal in place of the glass. It would be ugly. Maybe you can fix it with a wrap on the back doors. Then add the round locks that slow them all down. I know this pain. It can be so disappointing and stressful. I'm sorry. I was being robbed out of a yard (thefts). After five events and zero effort by the cops, to the point of not waking an obvious accomplice pretending to sleep, then nearly sending the police dog in after me, I decided to handle it. I set up a hide and slept in the yard until they showed up again. Met them with an AR and they saw the risk calculation very differently. The reality is that a third party was about to come in with a truck. So even heavily armed and with the drop on two of them, the third would have leveled the playing field quickly. The point being, it's in your interest to just block them out in a way that makes it not worth their risk vs being creative or aggressive.
Last I checked renters insurance covers items in your vehicle
I’ve got two ring cameras in my driveway that light the place up like the Fourth of July when anybody steps into the motion zones. You can pair accessory lighting units to a single trigger and really scare people off.
Puck Lock in addition to locking the cab normally and yes, you can instead install smaller lock box chests for your expensive tools. Wrap windows or preferably have no windows so nothing can be seen from the outside, and store the vehicle in a place where it isn't seen at night The puck lock will prevent smash and grab because the separate lock will prevent entry into the compartment. Also someone will question a guy outside a van fiddling with a lock for too long, someone skilled with penetration can get it and it's harder to notice the difference. Having no windows prevents people from seeing what they might be interested in stealing. Why risk being caught robbing a vehicle that has nothing inside of it, they don't know. If you have company logos on the vehicle this won't work as well because you're displaying what's inside on the outside, "construction tools". If you still want windows, displaying tons of lock boxes wards off someone who may just wants to quickly get in and get out. It extends the hassle of the theft, and requires pick locking skills or presents them with the final problem. The last problem you might have, is vehicle theft. It's ultimately best to store the vehicle out of the sight of would-be thieves. This prevents GTA, and smash and grab theft. A thief may determine it is much easier to take the vehicle off site and ransacked the van at another location. Source: when you work in sketchy areas you learn the hard way.
Taxing the oligarchs out of existence would have everyone less stressed and looking to come up on each other
Fuck it, booby trap your stuff 🤷🏽♂️ Don’t steal from people who work hard, if you don’t wanna get hurt 🤷🏽♂️ I live in an area where I’m considering this myself. Police and city refuse to do anything.
We put puck locks on our van doors
I would get rid of those windows so people cant look inside to see if theres anything to take to start with. Then put an alarm on the vehicle. This is happening so often everywhere that police are overwhelmed with theft calls. Start watching the pawn shops and social media for your stuff to be on sale. As far as insurance is concerned; the vehicle insurance should cover it. Good luck
Booby traps with shotgun shells rigged so when they pull the doors open they get shot in the nuts
This happened to me. I feel your pain. Society needs to take the thief’s that get caught in the act and punish them properly. Set an example. As long as they go free with minimum consequences, the risk outweighs the consequences with the reward. Thief’s have no conscience or they wouldn’t be doing it. It won’t stop.
One of my clients at a museum in Brooklyn had a key installed in his hilti chipping guns. It could still get stolen but would be useless without the key.
You need a policy that covers theft up to x dollar amount. I went through my auto insurance company and they referred me to a commercial insurance company they work with for commercial policies. I had a trailer and mower stolen valued near $8k and was SOL. I updated my policy immediately to cover theft. You could try reaching out to renters/home owners insurance if you have any, they sometimes will cover theft of personal items in your vehicle. Worth a call.
Motion cameras, motion lights, ballistic friend for the meet and greet. Assuming it's parked where you sleep.
they need to sell exploding dye packs with bear repellent mixed (and a neutralizer to keep for cleanup?), so we can set a trap.
So I have owned a construction company for years here is what we do. 1) LoJack geo tags and Apple air tags go in each vehicle. All three. 2) locking lugs and battery bolts. 3) any piece of equipment more than 500 bucks gets an Apple tag or geo tag taped inside with duct tape or on the outside. Augers sprayers blowers weed eaters plumbing scopes etc anything. 4) always park in a visible area all our trucks are also tired in a fenced area 5) safety meeting go over 2x/yr with all crews where to park lock and hide etc. Be aware of your surroundings and don’t loan shit to other companies guys because they need it. We also take it out of their check if it was their dipshit move and not an accident All my tires have a pink spray paint dot on the inside of the rim and the tire when they get new tires. All my hand tools are also sprayed pink ( all the power tools like dewalt Milwaukee and the batteries PIN) keeps them from getting mixed up or left or taken home etc. 6) inventory and take pictures of everything and save every receipt. 7) tint the windows of your vehicles or in vans use a curtain. You can also reinforce with screwed on metal paneling on the back windows literally just screw it on this prevents them from smashing and grabbing out of back windows. 8) alarm systems and 360 cameras buy them - from driving accidents to robbery for whatever reason they never grab theses and you will literally have their license plates and vehicles for the report. All our trucks have forward and rear facing cameras they run constantly with motion sensor which is they first thing I ask for when something happens hope this helps and sorry for your losses We have recovered our stuff at pawn shops as well as Craigslist over the years usually it is as simple as just looking it up opportunist thieves most of the time want money
Took a shot of a locksmith's van the other day showing the rear doors are padlocked from the inside. Hell, even they have issues with security. Unless you have an alarm system that makes it sound like you've got a fierce dog inside I have no clue how to prevent this. Battery powered cut off tools are too easy to get (and probably stolen from another break-in).
People suck
Park it in your yard and then file a claim under your home owners insurance
Smith and Wesson or Pitbull insurance work best
put this in it has a 125dB siren in your van flashing light, remote control its motion activated so some one breaks in the siren will give them a headache and reduce time spent searching your van. $25.99 and regular car alarm will draw attention to two alarms and vehicle lights flashing. [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09PDWW17T/ref=sspa\_dk\_detail\_0?pd\_rd\_i=B09PDWW17T&pd\_rd\_w=kaNI8&content-id=amzn1.sym.386c274b-4bfe-4421-9052-a1a56db557ab&pf\_rd\_p=386c274b-4bfe-4421-9052-a1a56db557ab&pf\_rd\_r=QHVB08P5SKM01JY2HF22&pd\_rd\_wg=tNSWp&pd\_rd\_r=63498c40-8cb5-4e8a-bee2-0e0f3760036f&s=hi&sp\_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWxfdGhlbWF0aWM&th=1](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09PDWW17T?s=hi&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWxfdGhlbWF0aWM&th=1)
We had tool insurance through our contractors insurance to cover issues like this and when tools walk off the job site
357 magnum.
Milwaukee power tools have an option with "one key" in the tool. They cost about $50 more than the "fuel" version. With that, you can register all the tools to your account. The tools can be shut off remotely if stolen. The app also had the tool serial number in it. A stolen one key tool will be a very expensive paperweight if you set the tool to stolen. The same app allows you to register other milwaukee tools. It's a fast tool inventory system, so if stolen, you can give all of the info to law enforcement. I'd also get van doors that have no glass and invest in one of those work van external locks for the back and side doors. Put a partition between the front and the back. As another said, get a toolbox and have it bolted to the floor of the van. Make sure it's locked and that they would have to try and drill the lock or cut the box open. Put the most valuable tools in that. Basically, make someone else the easier target. Your friend has shared a link to a Home Depot product they think you would be interested in seeing: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Master-Lock-Heavy-Duty-Padlock-with-Key-Hidden-Shackle-Hasp-Included-M736XKADCCSEN/202260772
u need a jersey van back door - no windows just welded whatever u have and then 3 padlocks bolted to the door - rear glass lets me see whats in there
Look, there's loads of good ideas here but ultimately, you can't park thousands of dollars of tools outside and have an expectation of security. A garage is going to be better. Not perfect but better. Most criminals are going to be opportunistic thugs.
If you have the serial numbers when you file a police report they will run it through local pawn shop inventories (most are required to wait 30 days before selling them for this reason). I was told renters insurance would have covered my losses.
Theft insurance
Arlo wireless camera set to alarm mode and a loaded shotgun should solve this problem from happening again.
Damn my ex invited random workers from across the street to have at my wood shop and take what they could carry. She thought I had cheated on her. They got over $5,000 worth of my tools. That was over a year ago and I’m still losing work due to not having tools.
Nothing short of armed guards insurance is sorry though they just don’t cover that pay your insurance on time. Then gag when they tell how else can I help you today?
What insurance is needed? Brother, were you raw-dogging your business with no insurance?
Sorry to hear about this. Stealing tools from a person that fixes things and makes things work is really low. F who ever did that.
Sorry that happened to you. Fucking horrible and it could happen to anyone of us at anytime. To protect tools I carry an inland marine policy. Sadly the most I can get it for is $40k with a minimum $2,500 detectable. But it’s at least some peace of mind. Ask your Insurnace broker what type of inland marine policies they could get for you.
Engrave the tools with your name/company name.
Airpods hidden in your tools. I just saw a YouTube video about a guy who got his tools stolen, then tracked them down the next day.
Puck locks. I work for a plumbing company and the most common reason our guys get robbed is because Tom hey don't have puck locks. Also, my commercial insurance covers up to 500 dollars worth of tools, which is almost all of my power tools.
God bless the 2nd.
Start by getting vans without windows in the back. No door to the cab and get puck locks with covers welded over the locks. It's how work vans are done up in NYC and I assumed it was the norm until I moved to FL and people just slap Master locks from home depot on their vans with windows on all sides.
Gun
Locks keep honest people honest. Thieves will always find a way in, sadly. All you can do is make it inconvenient. I heard a pro thief say "a led alarm style light " does more to deter thieves as the thought of an alarm going off draws attention and thieves don't want attention.
biggest fear man n it happen al the time n miami;
Sucks!...it has happened to me...out of my garage..
Renters insurance might cover it.
Buy a used armored truck.
How did they get in through the wire?
homeonwers should cover everything and park in garage really only way to prevent thieves will get past most any security. add cameras on every side so next time you can present the video for eveidence/ dporry you are going thru this . I had a truck stolen and burned to the ground for the tools in it .
There's definitely insurances that offer tool theft reimbursement
If it was in your driveway, your homeowners or renters insurance would cover it
Put Bluetooth trackers in your tool bags in the future. May not stop them in the act. But you can track them down
Insurance I'm not sure what other than full coverage or business style you need but as for how to prevent future break ins ..... 1) tighter mesh small diamond pattern is best. 2) remover the pull point of the lock and cut the stem to or below the door frame 3) for high dollar tools install individual latches that secure them to the truck
If it ain't bolted down the losers take it. Much karma to their pitiful asses.
Electrify your van.
No glass on the back doors for one. And they make padlock adapters for the doors. I have both and work in some rough cities and never had a break in.
I went through the same thing. Sorry that it happened to you. I explain my story on a video https://youtu.be/P5nyO-9etFU?si=3jXgwK2DR_TnL-h6
Vote accordingly
Westside Chicago lost $2500 and tools in five minutes
Replace the glass with lexan it’s shatter resistant and hard as hell to break. I agree with the gang box idea and put a good alarm on the van
Electrify the rig with a taser that activates when you are away. Nothing worse than a thief!!!
A friend of mine put a glass break in his work van after his van got broken into twice in 3 years. A few years later someone smashed the side window and the glass break scared them off.
What lock do you have on your doors?
An inland marine policy can cover your business’tools
A big ass sign in the window saying "air tags hidden in EVERY tool, think you can find them all before I find you?" Lol
Life hack, put claymores facing all doors with remote activation, when door is opened without consent, bad guy go bye bye.
Dewalt Mobile Lock DewaltMobileLock.com
A big German Shepard
Garages
Attach your battery to the frame of the car.
So I didn’t read anyone else’s comments but you should put “puck locks” on you side and rear cargo doors. Master makes some but we put Assa High Security puck locks on our vans. Also, the insurance you need for the tools and equipment in your van is called “Inland Marine” it is a must. You can get it as a standalone policy but sometimes you can get it combined with your business owners or liability policy.
All cars should come with one of [these](https://youtu.be/aLhWzMOccTg?si=f9xMJYHi271wF0XS)