How to Protect & Mark Tools Against Theft

Every 21 minutes, an incident of tool theft is reported in the UK. Just let that settle in for a moment.

Tool theft is a monumental problem, and you’re lucky if you haven’t yet been victim, given that 4 in 5 tradespeople have had their tools stolen at some point.

Source: https://www.directlinegroup.co.uk/en/news/brand-news/2025/19052025.html

And here’s the thing – tool theft doesn’t just cost you money upfront. It interrupts your work schedule, affects your income whilst you’re sourcing replacements, and creates unnecessary stress when you’re trying to meet project deadlines. The ripple effects can last for weeks.

While more undoubtedly needs to be done to stop tool thieves in the first place, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the chances of your tools being stolen.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

Understanding the Scope of Tool Theft

The numbers paint a stark picture of just how widespread tool theft has become across the UK.

79% of UK tradespeople have had tools stolen at some point in their career, with incidents peaking during November’s darker months when thieves have more cover under extended hours of darkness. Tool theft from vehicles accounts for about one-third of all thefts reported to police.

The Real Impact of Tool Theft

When your tools get nicked, the problems multiply quickly:

• Immediate financial loss – Quality tools aren’t cheap, and replacing a full kit can cost thousands
• Lost working time – You can’t complete jobs whilst sourcing replacements
• Project delays – Customers won’t wait indefinitely, potentially damaging your reputation
• Insurance complications – Claims can be slow, and premiums often increase after theft
• Stress and frustration – The emotional toll of being targeted affects your work and personal life

The Problem Gets Worse

Here’s something many tradespeople don’t realise: thieves often return to the same targets. They know you’ll replace your stolen tools, making you an attractive repeat target. This creates a vicious cycle where some tradespeople face multiple thefts within months of each other.

Professional thieves also tend to work in organised groups, sharing information about vulnerable targets and high-value tool collections. They know which brands to target and have established networks for selling stolen equipment quickly.

How to Mark Your Tools to Prevent Theft

Tool marking is your first line of defence, and it works for two key reasons: thieves actively avoid marked tools because they’re much harder to sell, and marked tools are significantly easier to recover if they do get stolen.

DIY Marking Solutions

You don’t need expensive equipment to start marking your tools effectively. Here are some simple methods that work:

Permanent markers and UV pens are the most basic option. Write your name, phone number, or postcode clearly on tool handles and bodies. UV pens are particularly effective because the markings are invisible under normal light but show up clearly under UV scanners that police use.

Engraving creates permanent identification that’s nearly impossible to remove without obvious tampering. Use a small engraving tool to add your initials or phone number to metal surfaces. Focus on areas that aren’t easily ground off, like inside battery compartments or on the back of tool bodies.

Bright-coloured paint serves a dual purpose – it makes your tools easily identifiable and less attractive to thieves. Use fluorescent paint to highlight your markings or create distinctive patterns that make your tools stand out.

Advanced Marking Solutions

For tradespeople with high-value tool collections, professional marking systems offer superior protection:

Datatag uses tamper-proof tags, forensic DNA, and invisible UV etching to secure your tools. Each tag contains a unique identification code that is linked to a national database, allowing stolen items to be traced back to their rightful owner. The system also includes warning stickers to deter thieves and ensure your tools are protected at all times.

Datatag say that using their marking solution makes tools:

• 4x less likely to be stolen
• 6x more likely to be recovered if they are

SelectaDNA Tool Kit uses unique DNA markers that create an unbreakable link between stolen tools and their rightful owner. The synthetic DNA is applied as a clear liquid that’s virtually impossible to remove. Each kit contains enough solution to mark hundreds of tools, and the DNA signature is registered on a national database that police can access.

Securing Your Van

Your van is often the weakest link in your security chain, and thieves know it. If they can’t get into your van, your tools won’t be stolen in the first place.

Tips to Prevent Your Van from Being Broken Into

Upgrade your locks with professional-grade security hardware:

• Deadlocks provide additional security that can’t be opened from inside the van
• SlamLocks automatically secure your van every time you close the doors
• Arma Plates protect lock cylinders from drilling and picking attacks

Invest in secure tool storage that works whilst you’re mobile:

• Van Vault Mobi offers portable security that moves between vehicles
• Van Vault Slider provides heavy-duty storage that’s accessible from outside the van
• Drawer systems keep tools organised and secure behind locked panels

Install deterrent systems that make thieves think twice:

• Van alarms with shock sensors and sirens
• CCTV systems that record activity around your vehicle
• Motion-activated lights that illuminate the area

Bonus: Remove tools overnight whenever possible. While this won’t stop your van from being broken into, it does mean you won’t lose anything valuable if it does.

Additional Tips to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Tool Theft

Maintain an inventory of all your tools with serial numbers, photos, and purchase receipts. This makes insurance claims easier and helps police identify recovered tools.

Join local tradesperson groups on social media where members share information about local theft patterns and suspicious activity. These networks often help recover stolen tools through community vigilance.

Consider tool insurance that covers theft from vehicles and premises. Specialist trade insurance often provides better coverage than standard home insurance.

Vary your routines to avoid predictable patterns. Thieves often watch potential targets to learn schedules and identify the best times to strike.

What You Can Do To Prevent Tool Theft Entirely

The Theft of Tools of Trade Sentencing Bill, introduced by Amanda Martin MP, aims to impose stricter penalties on those convicted of stealing tools of trade.

The bill’s goal is to highlight the severity of tool theft on tradespeople’s livelihoods and seeks to deter offenders through tougher sentencing. We recently recorded an episode of the FieldRocket podcast with Amanda to learn more about the bill, which you can watch here:

There have been some encouraging movements to stop tool theft, such as recent protests. Join in, show face, and become part of the change.

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