The UK's most stolen vans

We discovered there are specific peaks throughout the year with the highest level of van thefts recorded in October (912), November (876) and July (871) in 2025.

The winter months could be due to the darker nights, with thieves feeling like they could go about undetected, while the summer months’ warmer weather, longer hours and increased social activity could also contribute to more opportunities for theft.

The colour of vans stolen across 2024 and 2025

Vans can be a target for theft due to the goods that may be stored in them - with white vans accounting for 73% of all thefts in the last two years.

While white is the most common van colour in the UK, the rate of theft suggests these vehicles are being targeted more than their actual market share - meaning they might actually be preferred by thieves.

• White - 16,121
• Silver - 2,140
• Grey - 1,286
• Blue - 920
• Black - 818

Top tips for protecting your van

All of the above data shows van owners how important it is to ensure their vehicles are kept safe and secure. Claire Wills-McKissick, Tempcover’s temporary van insurance expert, has offered the following advice to help deter thieves from targeting your van:

1. Never leave your van unlocked

“Whether dropping off equipment or making a quick pit-stop, always switch off your engine and secure your van. A few seconds is all a thief needs to seize the opportunity.”

2. Secure your keys

“Keep keys on your person or store them in an RF-blocking (Faraday) pouch or sleeve when not in use to prevent opportunistic relay-attack theft.”

3. Use visible security deterrents

“Steering locks, brake locks or wheel clamps can act as a physical barrier and can deter or slow down potential thieves.”

4. Install alarms, immobilisers, or tracking devices

“Ensure the van is fitted with modern alarms to provide an immediate alert, immobilisers to prevent the van from being driven, and tracking devices for recovery if a theft occurs.”

5. Keep tools and equipment out of sight

“Store valuable equipment and tools securely in the back of your van, in lockable internal racking, or, where possible, remove them from the vehicle overnight to eliminate a primary incentive for break-ins.”

6. Park wisely

“Park in well-lit, busy areas or monitored sites. Utilising a locked garage, private driveways, and areas covered by security lighting and CCTV can significantly reduce the likelihood of a vehicle being targeted.”

Why the right van insurance matters

If you have your van stolen, you could lose significant amounts of money as you may be unable to carry out your planned jobs… This can be resolved if you’re able to borrow a vehicle with temporary van insurance.

This comprehensive cover gives you the chance to get on the road quickly with a borrowed van and full peace of mind. Comprehensive van insurance covers accidental and malicious damage to the vehicle, plus loss or damage caused by fire, theft or attempted theft.

You’ll need to make sure you have van contents insurance to cover tools, stock and personal items - all of which could be of high-value and desirable to criminals.