GPS Could Have Prevented “Overlooked” Supplies in Puerto Rico
GPS asset tracking has become a go-to solution across a variety of industries to track the shipment of assets and prevent their theft or misplacement.
While GPS is not the only type of tracking technology that can be used for the purposes of asset protection, it is certainly one of the most popular and effective, thanks in large part to its versatility. RFID is another popular option for asset tracking, but it has more limitations and requires the use of specialized scanners. GPS relies on the global satellite system, so it can be used anywhere on the planet without needing a special scanner.
The technology can be used to track small or large assets.
Small asset tracking
GPS vehicle tracking is commonly used by businesses to track some larger machinery and valuable equipment. With advances in technology, it can now also be used to track smaller items, too. For example, hospitals often track medical supplies and equipment, as they are often susceptible to theft. This helps hospitals to not only reduce these instances of theft, but also better manage and track their inventory.
This same type of tracking is seen in electronics stores, which are common targets for thieves. Phones, tablets and other high-value devices that are targets to be stolen can be outfitted with GPS tracking devices to be sure retailers are able to protect their items. Police can then track the signal from the device and easily recover the items and arrest the person who committed the crime.
Finally, almost any museum or art gallery with high-value items will use GPS asset tracking technologies to make sure nobody attempts to remove, damage or alter the items in any way.
Large asset tracking
Equipment theft is a big problem in the worlds of construction and agriculture. According to a study performed by the National Insurance Crime Bureau, approximately $1 billion worth of construction equipment is stolen every year. GPS asset tracking helps these businesses protect their expensive equipment, as law enforcement will be able to track it more easily if it does get stolen.
In the transportation industry, asset tracking can be used to prevent cargo theft. About $30 billion in cargo is stolen on average every year, so more widespread use of this tracking can help to significantly curtail that number.
Puerto Rico
In the wake of this fall’s hurricanes, Puerto Rico found itself in dire need of shipments of goods such as food, water and medications. Asset tracking could have been used to help prevent “overlooked” supplies.
A frequent issue for the territory was that it was assumed supplies were being sent to a specific area, but they never actually arrived. GPS tracking allows for more large-scale organization, so it becomes easier to ensure all shipments arrive where they are meant to arrive, and that nothing is forgotten, misplaced or stolen.
This is just one example of how asset tracking can be used outside of the usual industrial senses. For more information, contact our GPS tracking service today.
Categorised in: GPS Tracking Service
This post was written by Malcolm Rosenfeld