What should you look for in a GPS fleet tracking service?
While certain features (and benefits of those features) depend on your business's unique needs, standard GPS fleet tracking systems should include driver safety tracking, navigation and communication options, fuel card integration, vehicle maintenance tracking, dashboards with trending key metrics, and ongoing customer support. The best GPS fleet tracking systems are easy to use and often have additional features, like alert systems and mobile access.
What GPS hardware do you need to track your fleet?
You will need a GPS tracking device installed on each vehicle or asset. One of the most popular types of tracking hardware is a plug-and-play device that can be easily inserted and removed from your vehicle's OBD II port. Another hardware option is to have a hardwired tracking device installed on each vehicle. Common device add-ons include dash cameras (for video telematics) and driver ID readers (for tracking drivers). You may also consider installing tracking devices on nonvehicle assets and equipment.
What data does GPS tracking provide?
GPS tracking services can provide you with a wealth of data on your vehicles and drivers. Although the specific alerts and reports vary, most GPS fleet tracking software provides data about vehicle location, driver behavior and performance, vehicle health and maintenance, fuel consumption, navigation and route optimization, and fleet safety and security. Most software allows you to customize your reports.
What other components of GPS tracking should you be aware of?
Keep in mind that not all systems offer real-time tracking. Although many services claim to do so, they are actually "near real time." That means that instead of offering second-to-second tracking on where your fleet is, they update every 10 to 120 seconds with breadcrumb trails. This might not be an issue for most businesses, but it is something to consider if you need second-to-second updates. Only a few companies we researched offer true real-time tracking.
What Are the Security Benefits of GPS Trackers for a Business Fleet?
GPS fleet tracking systems allow businesses to monitor their trucks, equipment and drivers in real time. Instead of hoping that their assets are being taken care of, businesses can use GPS fleet tracking to keep their trucks and equipment secure. For example, a company can use a GPS tracker to ensure their trucks are staying within a designated area, or they can leave their large machinery at a construction site overnight and rest assured knowing that it can be safely tracked if needed. Some GPS tracking systems also come with video telematics capabilities, so companies can gain firsthand insight into how their fleet is being managed.
What Types of Businesses Can Benefit From GPS Tracking?
Although the majority of businesses that use fleet tracking are in transportation industries, such as trucking and car services, virtually any business that needs to monitor company assets, vehicles or equipment can benefit from these solutions. For example, businesses in the following industries may need GPS tracking: construction; utilities; heavy equipment; agriculture; retail and manufacturing; distribution; government and public safety; oil, mining, and gas; food and beverage; and rental fleets.
How Can Fleet Management Software Help You Save Money?
Fleet management software provides businesses with a variety of insights that can help them save money. Viewing fleet trends and GPS data, companies can track and improve driver performance, reduce fuel consumption, optimize driver routes and minimize risks.