Key Takeaways
The benefits of GPS equipment tracking is widely known. But with so many different types of vehicles, tools, and equipment, it can be challenging to know which GPS tracker to choose? Equipment GPS trackers come in all shapes and sizes, from plug-and-play units to tamper-proof ruggedized devices. The asset you wish to track plays a large role in the type of device you need. This is also why working with the right vendor is important. You will want to ensure the GPS tracking vendor you choose not only offers a variety of trackers for all your vehicle and equipment types but allows you to view and manage all assets in a single platform.
Here we look at the different GPS trackers available and what vehicles or equipment types they are best suited for.
Table of Contents
- Heavy Equipment
- On Road Vehicles (Trucks)
- On Road Vehicles (Light Vehicles)
- Small Powered Assets
- Non-Powered Assets
- Other Equipment
Streamline Equipment Management
Take a look at our equipment management software that improves operational efficiency, simplifies maintenance and improves operator safety.
Heavy Equipment
Ruggedized GPS trackers that can hold up to harsh conditions, including excess vibration and extreme weather, are perfect for heavy machinery. In addition to location data, these hardwearing devices collect detailed engine data, including engine hours, idle time, and fuel use. These devices also collect data to enable automated maintenance scheduling and work alongside in field apps for inspections.
- Equipment Examples:
- Bulldozers
- Excavators
- Dumpers
- Device Recommendations
On Road Vehicles (Trucks)
Most trucks require professionally installed, hardwired GPS trackers for compliance purposes. In addition to monitoring vehicle location and status, hardwired devices provide powerful analytics and diagnostics for both vehicle and driver behavior.
Professional installation helps ensure the reliability of data capture, security, and compliance.
From Hours of Service (HOS) and fuel tax reporting to speeding warnings and stop sign violation alerts, GPS truck trackers are an integral aspect to any fleet.
- Vehicle Examples:
- Semi-trucks
- Heavy-duty vehicles
- Busses
- Device Recommendations:
On Road Vehicles (Light Vehicles)
Vehicles that are not regulated by the Department of Transportation can still benefit from GPS tracking. From a business perspective, it is still important to monitor and track the location and status of lightweight on-road vehicles. Monitor fuel, driving behavior and unauthorized use.
Lightweight vehicles are also perfect for self-installed devices as vehicle turnover is more frequent.
- Vehicle Examples:
- Delivery Vans
- Light-duty trucks
- Cars
- Device Recommendations:
Small Powered Assets
Powered tools and other assets, such as generators, light towers, and mobile signage, require location tracking, too. It’s important for inventory purposes to fully understand if, when, and where a powered asset is being used. Proper inventory management can help cut down on rental fees, reduce equipment hoarding, and reduce theft. GPS equipment tracking can provide visibility into the chain of custody and maintenance for smaller tools as well.
- Equipment Examples:
- Portable generators
- Mobile signage
- Light towers
- Device Recommendations
Non-powered Assets
Battery powered GPS trackers are perfect for trailers, containers, and other non-powered assets, providing the same location tracking abilities as their powered counterparts. These devices can be securely mounted via bolts or magnets and have long-lasting battery life. Solar-powered trackers are also available for trailers and offer real-time location updates when trailers are in transit. In addition to location data, these trackers can alert management when an asset moves or leaves a geo-fenced area.
- Equipment Examples:
- Trailers
- Containers
- Portables
- Device Recommendations:
Other Equipment
Barcode technology, including scannable QR codes, are a great way to keep track of smaller non-powered assets, such as ladders and tools, which can easily go missing. A digital inventory of tools that require users to scan an item in and out can help when it comes to tracking down lost or stolen tools.
- Equipment Examples:
- Ladders
- Drills
- Grinders
- Device Recommendation:
- QR Codes
Selecting the right GPS tracker is heavily dependent on the type of asset you wish to track. GPS trackers for equipment come in all shapes, sizes and use cases and should be tailored to your specific business needs.