Tool Theft Prevention

Tools are expensive, and thieves target job sites, trucks and trailers. A stolen tool can mean lost income for a tradesperson, a delayed job and, when a worker borrows an unfamiliar tool, a higher chance of injury.

• Tradespeople
• Contractors
• Foremen

Mark and record

• Engrave or paint-mark every tool with a name, company or license number, and mark in a hidden spot too
• Keep an inventory list with photos, serial numbers and purchase dates, stored somewhere other than the truck. Many insurers and police ask for it
• Register tools with the maker where possible and consider tags or GPS trackers for expensive items
• Check insurance coverage for tools, including when they are in a vehicle or at a site

Secure storage on site

• Use lockable job boxes, gang boxes or a locked trailer with strong locks that resist cutting, and shielded hasps. Chain heavy boxes to a fixed object.
• Put small, valuable and cordless tools in a locked cabinet or take them home. See Toolboxes & Storage.
• Keep batteries and chargers locked up, since they are easy to steal. See Cordless Tool Battery Handling.
• Control who is on site: sign-in sheets, badges and gates. See Jobsite Security and Visitors & Deliveries.
• Use lighting, fences, cameras and alarms when the site is empty, and neighbors or security patrols if possible.
• Do a tool count at the end of each day.

Vehicles and trailers

• Do not leave tools in plain view in a truck. Use locked, bolted-in toolboxes and cargo locks.
• Park in lit, busy areas; back trailers against a wall; lock the hitch and wheels.
• Remove valuable tools when you park overnight if you can.

If tools are stolen

1. Call the police and file a report with serial numbers and photos.
2. Tell your supervisor and insurance company.
3. Check pawn shops, online marketplaces and tool buyers for your marked items, and report them to police rather than confronting a seller.
4. Review how it happened and improve security.

Last updated: October 8, 2026