Almost a third (30%) of tradespeople are switching to unbranded vans to avoid becoming targets for tool thieves, according to new research. The findings, from specialist insurer Tradesman Saver, reveal many tradespeople are changing how they operate because of worries that vehicle branding could advertise valuable tools and materials to criminals.

They are also taking wider preventative measures to reduce the risk of theft with more than half (54%) completely emptying their vans at night, and a similar amount (53%) investing in additional physical security such as upgraded locks, tracking devices and secure storage.

Concern around tool theft remains high, with 42% of the tradespeople surveyed saying they have already been hit at least once. Of those who haven't been targeted yet, well over half (56%) think it will happen at some point in their career.

The impact goes beyond the financial cost of replacing stolen equipment. Among those who have experienced tool theft, 42% said it caused them stress or anxiety, and almost a third (31%) said it had resulted in lost work or unexpected downtime.

Dean Laming, Managing Director of Tradesman Saver, said: “A branded van has long been one of the best forms of advertising for a tradesperson, helping them build recognition and win work in their local area. It's worrying to see that fears around tool theft are forcing some to rethink that approach, with concerns that sign written vans make them a target for criminals.

"While some are taking more precautions than ever before, the stories we hear from customers show that even the most careful tradespeople can still be targeted. That’s why making sure you have the right cover in place is so important. It’s not just about replacing stolen tools; it’s about protecting livelihoods and reducing downtime through quick settlements. We settle 30% of claims within seven days, helping tradespeople get back to work as quickly as possible if the worst does happen.”

The research was carried out in March 2026 and questioned 658 tradespeople across the UK for Tradesman Saver’s Tool Theft Gap report.