If you use your van for work, the vehicle probably carries more than just a few everyday items. Tools, equipment, materials and stock can spend hours inside it, sometimes overnight. For motorhome owners, there is a different concern. When you’re travelling or staying somewhere unfamiliar, you want to know that the doors are properly secured. Choosing the right motorhome door locks can provide an additional layer of security and help give you greater peace of mind while you’re away from home.
The standard locks fitted by the vehicle manufacturer provide the basic level of protection, but many owners decide to add another layer of security.
The tricky part is knowing which lock actually makes sense for your vehicle and the way you use it.
Start with how you use your vehicle
Before looking at different locks, think about your normal routine.
A builder who leaves expensive tools in a van overnight has different priorities from a courier who opens the rear doors every few minutes. A motorhome owner may be more concerned with securing the living area while travelling or staying at a campsite.
That is why choosing a lock simply because someone recommends it isn’t always the best approach.
The vehicle itself matters too. Different makes and models have different door designs, locking systems and available fitting options.
Deadlocks: a straightforward additional security option
Deadlocks are popular with van owners because they work separately from the vehicle’s standard central locking.
Once the deadlock is engaged, the additional lock provides another physical locking point. This can be useful for tradespeople who want extra protection for the load area when the van is parked.
It is a fairly simple idea, but it can make sense for someone who doesn’t need the automatic locking function of a slam lock.
If your van spends long periods parked outside your home, at a job site or overnight, a deadlock may be worth discussing with a professional installer.
Hook locks for commercial vans
Hook locks are another option commonly considered for work vans.
Instead of using a conventional straight bolt, the mechanism uses a hook that engages with a separate receiver. They are designed as an additional security measure rather than a replacement for the manufacturer’s locking system.
For tradespeople carrying valuable equipment, hook locks can be a useful addition to the existing van security.
The exact product and fitting method will depend on the vehicle, so it is sensible to check compatibility before buying anything.
When does a slam lock make more sense?
A slam lock is particularly interesting if you’re constantly getting in and out of your van.
Think about a courier making dozens of deliveries during a working day. Having to manually lock the additional security system every time the door closes isn’t particularly convenient.
With a slam lock, the door locks automatically when it is closed.
That small difference can make a big difference to someone who spends the entire day making stops. It also reduces the chance of simply forgetting to lock the vehicle after getting out.
For a tradesperson who parks the van and leaves it for several hours, a deadlock or hook lock may be a more appropriate choice. Again, the best option comes down to how the vehicle is actually being used.
What about motorhomes?
Motorhomes deserve a slightly different approach.
They aren’t usually carrying the same type of equipment as a working van, but they can contain personal belongings, electronics and other valuables. More importantly, the door and surrounding structure can be quite different from those found on a commercial vehicle.
When looking at door locks for motorhomes, make sure the product is designed for your particular vehicle.
It’s tempting to buy a lock online because it looks suitable in a photograph, only to discover that the dimensions or fitting points don’t work with the door.
A specialist can check the vehicle first and recommend an option that is actually compatible.
Why fitting matters as much as the lock
A good security product still needs to be installed correctly.
The door needs to operate normally after installation, and the lock needs to be positioned and fitted correctly for that particular vehicle. This is one reason many owners prefer to have van locks fitted professionally rather than attempting the installation themselves.
At ProVan Lock Solutions, we work with van and motorhome owners to identify suitable security products and carry out professional fitting. Our range includes options such as deadlocks, hook locks and slam locks, along with other van security products.
We can look at the vehicle, discuss how you use it and help you decide which type of additional security is appropriate.
So, which door lock should you choose?
There isn’t a single answer.
If you leave tools in your van overnight, an additional deadlock or hook lock may be worth considering. If you’re a courier constantly opening and closing the doors, the convenience of a slam lock could be more important.
And if you’re looking for door locks for motorhomes, compatibility with the specific vehicle should be one of the first things you check.
The best starting point is to think about what you’re trying to protect and how you use the vehicle every day. From there, you can choose a security solution that fits your circumstances rather than simply buying the most expensive option.
Need a Lock Fitted to Your Van or Motorhome?
If you’re considering upgrading your vehicle security, choosing the right lock is the first step. The most suitable option will depend on your vehicle, what you carry and how you use it day to day.
ProVan Lock Solutions supplies and professionally fits a range of van and motorhome security locks, including deadlocks, hook locks and slam locks. If you’re unsure which option is suitable for your vehicle, get in touch with the team to discuss your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best type of lock for a van?
It depends on how you use your van. Deadlocks and hook locks can provide additional security for work vans, while slam locks can be useful for couriers who frequently open and close their vehicle doors.
2. Are additional locks worth fitting to a van?
Additional locks can provide another layer of physical security beyond the vehicle’s factory locking system. The right option depends on your vehicle, what you carry and where it is normally parked.
3. Can you fit locks to any van?
Lock compatibility varies between makes and models. A professional installer can check your vehicle and recommend a suitable product before fitting it.
4. Can additional locks be fitted to motorhomes?
Yes, there are security products designed specifically for certain motorhomes. The correct door locks for motorhomes will depend on the make, model and existing door configuration.