Trade Security7 min read

Tool Theft from Vans: The UK Numbers and How to Reduce the Risk

Survey data shows 28% of van drivers had tools stolen in 2024, with average losses of £2,433. Here is what the latest data says and how to protect your livelihood.

Tool Theft from Vans: The UK Numbers and How to Reduce the Risk

Tool theft from vans continues to hit UK tradespeople hard. For many sole traders, losing tools means losing days of work and income.

The latest UK figures

Survey data from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (2025) shows:

  • 28% of van drivers reported tool theft in 2024 (up from 19% the year before).
  • The average value of stolen tools was £2,433, with 27% of incidents valued at £3,500 or more.
  • UK businesses face an estimated £3.5 billion annual cost from stolen tools.
  • 86% of victims reported downtime, averaging 3.97 days; 20% lost more than a week.

    • Why documentation matters

    Tools are often insured, but claims move faster when you can provide:

  • Serial numbers and photos
  • Receipts or proof of purchase
  • A clear inventory of what was stolen

    • How Is Everything Safe helps

  • Keep a digital inventory of tools with serial numbers and photos
  • Store receipts and insurance documents securely
  • Add QR labels to high-value equipment
  • Access everything instantly during a claim

    • Sources

  • https://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/tool-theft-from-increases-with-average-value-of-stolen-tools-up-40
  • https://news.cvshow.com/news/tool-theft-from-vans-on-the-rise-again

    • Build your household setup before you need it

    Keep important records, contacts, reminders, trusted alerts, and ownership information in one place so your household can act earlier and recover with less chaos.

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