Fleet managers around the world are struggling to keep up with the escalation in fuel prices as well as maintaining their overall service performance with lower profit margins. This is where vehicle tracking enters the picture. With a GPS vehicle tracking system, companies are able to track their vehicles and ensure safe, secure, and quicker delivery of goods.
The tracking device used in these systems use Global Positioning System or GPS technology which transmits data such as the precise latitude, longitude, and altitude in real time. Fleet owners are able to know where their assets are at all times with little to no technical experience. For transportation businesses, vehicle tracking provides data such as speed, route, and location for improved performance monitoring. Data can be downloaded and exported onto various devices for analysis and reporting.
Theft is another major concern among fleet managers who are considering implementing a vehicle tracking solution for their business. Assets that have tracking devices installed can be tracked anywhere in the world in real time and also alert owners if they were to go out of a preset range. Installing a vehicle tracking system is not only a solution for monitoring efficiency, but also serves as an anti theft device which in turn lowers insurance rates.
Lowering expenses caused by unnecessary stops, speeding, and theft are just a few of the benefits provided by vehicle tracking.
Vehicle Tracking Devices
The following list has examples vehicle tracking devices.
Data Loggers
These devices simply store the location of the unit at certain intervals. Usually come as USB flash drive which can be removed from any vehicle for downloading of the reports on a computer.
Data Pushers
The most common type of gps tracking units, data pushers are used for asset tracking, personal tracking, and vehicle tracking systems. This device “pushes” or “sends” information such as speed, location, and altitude of their assets at regular intervals. Many smartphones have this technology by default and enable almost anyone to be tracked in case of an emergency. There are two main uses for data pushers which are typically personal tracking and asset tracking.
Personal Tracking
One of the most popular types of uses for gps tracking technology. Often used by law enforcement to keep track of criminals that are out on bail. Other popular uses include, but are not limited to racing, espionage, teen tracking, tracking of the elderly, and internet applications.
Asset Tracking
Businesses with large fleets and/or constantly shipping assets need to somehow protect them from theft or loss. Asset tracking provides real-time gps tracking and monitoring via the web. This technology enables owners to monitor their assets from any internet connected device and is very user friendly.
Very informative website on vehicle tracking and its uses in business.
Don’t forget mobile phone tracking! Which is a good solution for those companies who have a business fleet made up of grey fleet vehicles.