How to Mark Your Tools to Prevent Theft

A Simply Guide

In recent years, tool theft has been on the rise.

Here's a breakdown of what you need to know about this growing problem. →

According to reports, as much as $1 billion worth of construction equipment is stolen every year.

And big ticket items like tractors, forklifts, and excavators are some of the most commonly stolen.

Recognizable name brands with high resale value are also big targets.

Having business insurance may be able help you recover financially if your equipment is stolen.

Find out what coverage we recommend to protect your business.

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But, what can you do to protect your tools to avoid them getting stolen?

Here are 5 tips to help prevent theft on your worksite. →

Display the PIN

Etching or stamping model numbers and other identifying information onto your equipment makes it easy to compare against your inventory, and promotes better etiquette when returning tools to their storage spots at the end of the day. And in that same vein…

1

Add your contact info

Marking your tools with your business name and contact details is another way to make your hardware easier to identify and keep track of. Tools with visible branding may be harder for thieves to resell.

2

Remove brand logos

High quality tools can last a long time and even promote productivity. But they also usually come with a big price tag, even on the resale market. Removing brand logos makes the tools less obviously valuable, without sacrificing their longevity.

3

Scuff it up

Adding some cosmetic wear-and-tear to your equipment is another way to tank its resale value. Some spray paint or score marks can make even the most expensive equipment look old and ordinary.

4

Scuff it up

Adding some cosmetic wear-and-tear to your equipment is another way to tank its resale value. Some spray paint or score marks can make even the most expensive equipment look old and ordinary.

4

Add GPS

Technically, this won’t prevent theft. However, a small GPS unit could help you track down your hardware if it’s ever taken.

5

If you want to go above- and-beyond.

Here are some bonus tips to help with equipment protection and management. →

1

Remove batteries from handheld tools and lock them up at the end of the work shift.

Add signage that tells potential thieves about the security measures you have in place, such as cameras and GPS.

Make sure all employees are fully trained on your tool storage system.

2

3

Have you experienced tool theft?

Here’s are some steps to take. →

File a claim with your insurance company.

Offer a reward for its return.

Contact the authorities — the sooner, the better.

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Learn more about other risks your business might be facing.