Plain unbranded vans less like to attract theft
Wed, 22 Oct 2025
.jpg?width=620){kind=spacer}
One-in-five businesses prefer to keep their vans plain, after more than half of owners (54%) say they’ve experienced theft, attempted theft or vandalism that they believe was linked to their vehicle being branded.
Temporary insurance specialist Tempcover surveyed 500 UK van owners to find out how tradespeople and small business owners use their vans to promote their work, revealing both the benefits and risks of vehicle branding.
The study found that nearly half of UK van owners fully brand their vehicles to boost trust and attract new customers.
A further quarter opt for partial branding, such as smaller decals or stickers. In contrast, almost one in five (19%) prefer to keep their vans unbranded, while 10% have considered branding but haven’t taken the plunge yet.
For many van owners, branding is about more than just appearances - it’s a powerful way to win trust and new customers. Half say they brand their vans to build a professional image, while 48% use it to attract new business and boost local awareness.
But while van branding can boost business, it can also come with risks. Over half of those surveyed believed that theft or attempted theft from their vans was a direct result of the branding on the side.
In contrast, 39% haven’t experienced any related incidents - but worries about theft and vandalism are serious enough for some owners to choose not to brand their vans, especially if carrying valuable cargo.
Of those surveyed, 42% saied they’ve removed branding from their van due to security concerns or related experiences. A further 14% are considering removing their branding, showing that theft risk is a real factor in branding decisions for many.
The study also shows that van owners question whether standing out means more trouble. Many believe that the size and visibility of their branding can make a difference when it comes to security.
Over two-thirds think that larger or more prominent branding increases the likelihood of theft or vandalism, with 26% saying it does so significantly and 44% believing it has a slight impact. But 18% think branding makes no difference.
"A van is often the backbone of a business, so it’s vital to keep it secure. While eye-catching designs can help attract new customers, they can also draw unwanted attention. Simple steps, such as parking in well-lit areas, using additional security locks, and avoiding leaving tools inside overnight, can go a long way in reducing risk," says temporary business van insurance expert at Tempcover, Claire Wills-Mckissick
"Temporary business van insurance can also offer valuable peace of mind, whether you’re using a spare van, covering short-term jobs or need flexible protection while your regular policy is under review. It’s a smart way to stay protected without committing to a full-term policy."
Can I claim for damaging my own van?
