GPS Tracker Buyers Guide

What Are GPS Trackers?

In its most basic form, a GPS tracker is a device that tells you where your vehicles or assets are located, but the capabilities of the latest solutions go a long way beyond a dot on a map. These powerful tools use satellites to pinpoint location, capture engine diagnostic data and use cellular networks to send critical data to a fleet management software platform. This data can then be used to help owners and operators manage their fleets more effectively.

GPS trackers vary in form and function, from plug-and-play units to professionally installed rugged devices that offer in-depth diagnostics. They cater to various needs, so whether you're managing a logistics, construction, or service fleet you can get a clearer picture of your assets and ensure they're working hard for your business.

Benefits of GPS Tracking Systems

GPS tracking isn't just about knowing where your vehicles are, but provides a range of benefits for your operation, these include:

• Enhanced Productivity. GPS tracking gives you full visibility into your vehicles' locations, helping you improve dispatch, reduce wasted time, and ensure drivers are on efficient routes.
• Driver Safety. With real-time insights into driver behavior, you can identify and address unsafe practices like harsh braking, speeding, or sudden acceleration. This helps create a culture of safety across your fleet.
• Reduced Fuel Costs. Monitoring idle times and optimizing routes can make a big difference in fuel consumption. By managing driver behavior and reducing unnecessary detours, you’ll see your fuel spend come down.
• Maintenance Management. Tracking engine hours, vehicle diagnostics, and maintenance schedules ensures vehicles are properly serviced, reducing unexpected breakdowns.
• Fleet Compliance. GPS trackers simplify compliance management by integrating data collection for hours of service, driver vehicle inspection reports, and fuel tax agreements into a single platform.
• Security and Theft Prevention. GPS tracking can provide instant alerts if your assets are moved without authorization. Real-time monitoring and geofencing help keep your fleet secure and enable fast recovery if theft occurs.
  
  

GPS tracking systems help give you control over every aspect of your fleet management by enabling more efficient operations and allowing for data-driven decision-making.

Who Needs GPS Trackers?

Every business that relies on a fleet of vehicles or valuable equipment can benefit from GPS trackers. Here are some everyday use cases across industries detailing how GPS tracking addresses’ some of the most pressing pain points.

Logistics and Transportation

Logistics companies, particularly those that manage long-haul trucking, face unique challenges regarding compliance, driver safety, and delivery timing. GPS trackers provide complete visibility into vehicle locations, supporting compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations and providing insights into driver behavior. This visibility allows dispatchers to make informed decisions, optimize routes, and ensure timely deliveries are made to keep customers satisfied and operations efficient.

Services and Trades

Efficiency is everything for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services businesses. Time spent driving between job sites, idle time, and the inability to respond to last-minute requests all impact profitability. Trackers help these businesses maintain efficiency by monitoring vehicle locations, allowing real-time route adjustments, and reducing idle time. The result? Better on-time performance and improved customer satisfaction.

Construction and Heavy Equipment Management

Construction companies need to know where their assets are at all times, whether it's an excavator on a job site or a dump truck en route. On-site teams often hoard heavy machinery, which can lead to delays and unnecessary equipment rentals that impact profitability. GPS trackers provide comprehensive equipment visibility, including engine hours and maintenance schedules that ensures each asset is used effectively to reduce both idle time and rental costs.

Other Common Uses

Fleet managers in industries like retail and delivery, government, passenger transportation, and vehicle rental, all face challenges around driver safety, asset utilization, and compliance. GPS trackers provide insights into driver behavior, help manage fuel consumption, and offer data on vehicle health. These metrics allow managers to take proactive steps, such as driver coaching or preventive maintenance, to keep their fleet running smoothly.

Selecting the Right Fleet GPS Tracker

With a wide variety of devices that collect data from on-road vehicles, powered heavy equipment and non-powered assets, it’s important to understand your needs and align them with the capabilities of the available devices. Here's a look at the different types of GPS trackers available and what each is best suited for.

Hardwired GPS Trackers

Hardwired trackers, like the VT101, are permanently installed in vehicles and typically require professional installation. They are ideal for heavy-duty vehicles that require tamper-proof devices capable of providing detailed data, including vehicle diagnostics and driver behavior. Hardwired trackers offer additional data security, are less prone to tampering, and are often used for regulatory compliance, such as with the ELD mandate for long-haul trucks.

Self-Install GPS Trackers

For light-duty vehicles or fleets with high vehicle turnover, self-install devices like the SI201 are the best choice. These plug directly into the OBDII port, making them easy to set up and remove as needed. Self-install trackers are great for businesses that want flexibility, like service fleets where vehicles may be swapped out frequently. These devices still provide valuable data, such as location tracking and driver behavior, but without the need for professional installation.

Battery-Powered GPS Trackers

Battery-powered trackers are perfect for non-powered assets, such as trailers, containers, or portable equipment that doesn’t have a power source. Devices like the AT301 provide reliable tracking with up to 10 years battery life. They are easy to install with screws or adhesive, and their rugged design ensures they can withstand harsh conditions. Battery-powered trackers are ideal for assets that don’t move frequently but still require regular location updates.

Solar-Powered GPS Trackers

For assets that are often outdoors and exposed to sunlight, solar-powered trackers like the ST101 are a great option. These trackers combine solar power with a backup battery, providing consistent performance even in low-light conditions. Solar-powered trackers are well-suited for trailers, construction equipment, and other assets that need frequent location updates while in transit. They help maintain a continuous power supply, reducing the need for manual battery replacements.

GPS Tracking Device Features

Teletrac Navman offers a variety of GPS tracking devices designed to fit the specific needs of different industries and use cases. Here’s a look at some of our popular products, their features, and the ideal fit for various industries.

VT101 Hardwired GPS Tracker

The VT101 is a hardwired GPS tracking device designed for heavy-duty vehicles, trucks, and fleets. It provides second-by-second tracking, rich vehicle diagnostics, and driver behavior monitoring, including insights into harsh acceleration, braking, and cornering.

SI201 Self-Install GPS Tracker

The SI201 is perfect for light-duty vehicles like service vans and small trucks. This device plugs directly into the vehicle’s OBDII port, allowing for easy installation and removal. It tracks real-time vehicle location and driver safety data.

AT301 Battery-Powered GPS Tracker

The AT301 is a battery-powered GPS tracker designed for non-powered assets like trailers, containers, and construction equipment. It offers flexible update intervals, has an IP67-rated rugged design, and boasts a long battery life of up to ten years.

ST101 Solar-Powered GPS Tracker

The ST101 is ideal for outdoor non-powered assets. This solar-powered device extends battery life and provides frequent location updates for assets in motion. It features both solar charging and an internal battery backup for reliable performance.

Teletrac Navman offers additional GPS tracking options for both regular and heavy-duty vehicles. See our Vehicle Tracking Buyers Guide for more information.

GPS Tracking Software Features

While the hardware of your GPS tracking devices is critical for capturing data, the software that supports these devices is what truly brings that data to life. The right software platform enhances the functionality of the tracking hardware to turn raw data into actionable insights.

Location and Tracking Features

Customizable location tracking is key to effective fleet management. A robust GPS tracking software platform provides real-time visibility into vehicle and asset locations, helping you streamline dispatch, improve route efficiency, and manage fleet operations more effectively. Geofencing is another vital feature—allowing you to set virtual boundaries around specific areas. With geofencing, you receive instant alerts whenever a vehicle or asset enters or exits these designated zones, which can help you prevent unauthorized use and ensure vehicles stay on task.

Maintenance Scheduling and Analytics

Maintenance is crucial to keeping your fleet in top condition, and GPS tracking software helps you stay ahead of issues. The system should allow you to schedule maintenance activities based on engine hours, mileage, or inspection alerts, which reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns. The software should also provide comprehensive analytics, offering you valuable insights into fleet usage, vehicle health, and downtime trends. By automating maintenance schedules and providing clear insights into asset performance, the software helps you maximize uptime and minimize unexpected repair costs.

Integration with Fleet Management Tools

An effective GPS tracking solution must seamlessly integrate with your existing fleet management tools. The software should be able to link with other systems you use, like job dispatching, fuel tracking, or payroll management. Integrating these tools within a single platform provides a comprehensive view of your fleet's performance, helping you to centralize data and reduce manual effort. This full operational picture not only simplifies the management process but also enhances decision-making, allowing you to see the complete status of your fleet in real-time.

Why Choose Teletrac Navman?

Choosing a GPS tracking provider is more than just selecting the hardware. You need a partner that can support your business needs now and in the future. At Teletrac Navman, we offer a comprehensive platform, TN360, that integrates vehicles, assets, and equipment tracking all in one place. The platform delivers data-driven insights through user-friendly dashboards and customizable reporting, transforming raw data into actionable intelligence. This helps you make informed decisions that directly impact your productivity, cost management, and safety initiatives.

Teletrac Navman also offers a wide range of GPS tracking devices to fit different industries and requirements, from hardwired solutions for regulatory compliance to plug-and-play devices for flexible fleet operations. We also provide customer support that starts during the purchase phase and continues through deployment, with ongoing training and dedicated account management to ensure you get the most value from your GPS tracking solution. With Teletrac Navman, you’re getting more than a GPS device, you’re getting a full-service partner committed to helping your business succeed.

GPS Tracker FAQs 

Choosing the right GPS tracker involves understanding its benefits, capabilities, and how it can improve your fleet operations. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about GPS trackers to help you make an informed decision on the best option for your fleet.