Vans stolen every 46 minutes in Britain
Research by Direct Line van insurance has shown the extent of vehicle theft in Britain with vans stolen every 46 minutes last year – and only 39% ever recovered.
The data found that 11,273 vans were stolen in England, Wales and Scotland during 2024, which equates to 31 a day, with a combined estimated value of about £200m.
The Ford Transit accounted for 52% of all vans stolen with 5,906 taken by thieves, although 2,041 were later recovered.
These figures were obtained through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
Eva Sandstra-Bennett, van product manager at Direct Line business insurance, said: “Van theft has a devastating impact on the businesses and individuals who rely on their vans for their daily lives and work. It isn’t just the cost of replacing a van, there is the lost income if businesses can’t make deliveries or if tradespeople can’t get to the site.
“While police efforts in recovering stolen vans is commendable, individual prevention remains the most effective way to deter thieves. This includes keeping keys in a Faraday pouch, parking in well-lit areas, using a steering wheel lock, and installing a tracker or immobiliser.
“Additionally, removing valuables like tools overnight can further reduce the risk of theft. Prioritising van security and having the right insurance cover can help prevent costly disruptions and keep your vehicle safe.”
