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Truck Crime

Trucks are often carrying valuable items, and as such are a target for thieves.  Over 2,000 trucks are stolen in the UK every year and less than half of these are recovered. Truck theft costs millions of pounds every year and can easily destroy the livelihood of drivers, owners and operators. In addition to the immediate financial implications, the loss of client faith could put future business in jeopardy.

Isis Truck Insurance has put together some useful advice and tips to help prevent you and your livelihood becoming the latest victim of truck crime.

Planning your journey

  • Planning your journey properly can help to minimise security risks. Always plan your route out well before you leave, as this will eliminate the need to stop for directions.
  • Before starting a journey always check all the vehicle security devices are functioning correctly.
  • Keep the pre-loading of vehicles to an absolute minimum. Where pre- loading is necessary, ensure the vehicle is in secure premises.
  • Never, ever discuss the nature of your load with anyone unless absolutely necessary.

Truck Security

  • The most important security measure is to ensure that when you leave your truck you lock it and take the keys with you.
  • Never leave your keys in the truck or in a hiding place around it. Thieves could be watching you.
  • Before leaving your truck double check that both the cab and the load compartment are secure. 
  • When you are not working be sure to keep vehicle keys secure at all times. Never leave them in a place where they could be copied and make sure they cannot be easily identified e.g. a key ring which details the vehicle they belong to.
  • If you leave your keys at your work premises make sure they are locked away and out of sight. 

On The Road

  • It is best to be varied in your work pattern. Avoid regular stops at the same shops or services, as this gives thieves the opportunity to become familiar with your movements.
  • Where possible try to refuel your vehicle on site, this minimises the need for stops in unsecure places.
  • Never give lifts, especially not to hitchhikers.
  • Never use the radio to discuss your load or route unless absolutely necessary.
  • If instructed to change the delivery address, always double check with your transport manager.
  • If you are suspicious about circumstances or any person be sure to report this to your manager and take appropriate measures. In an emergency call 999.

Leaving Your Truck Unattended

  • When you stop to rest or eat, always try to keep your truck in sight.
  • Hide all your personal belongings from view.
  • Always park in secure parking facilities, rather than lay bys.
  • If you have to stay overnight, use pre planned secure parking facilities.
  • Where possible you should park with the loading doors close to a building or wall as this will make it more difficult for thieves to access your load.
  • When you return to your truck check for any signs of forced entry and check the load security seals.

Tips For Employers

  • Check driver references and criminal records thoroughly.
  • Take the time to train drivers in security measures and theft prevention techniques.
  • Include security duties in your employees’ contracts.
  • Only discuss the nature of a load when essential.
  • A Third of all stolen trucks are taken from their premises, make sure yours is secure!
  • Ensure your truck and load is adequately insured by a specialist broker. Click here for an Isis Truck Insurance Quote.

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This entry was posted on Thursday, May 15th, 2008 at 11:40 am and is filed under Truck Advice & Guides. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

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