Everything You Need To Know About GPS Tracking Types
If you’re interested in GPS fleet tracking, you may be wondering where to get started. Understanding the different types of GPS tracking will help you narrow your choices. You should think about what type of information you need to monitor your equipment and what your goals are.
One of the first things you’ll want to know is the difference between active and passive tracking.
► Active Trackers
Active tracking devices send you real-time information.
If you need up-to-the-minute information about where your trucks are, the option is an active tracker.
► Passive Trackers
Passive tracking devices store information on the device about where your vehicles are. You have to remove the device from the vehicle and plug it into your computer to view the information.
If you want to track mileage, a passive tracker would work effectively. Passive devices are generally less expensive than active trackers.
Once you know what type of information you want and need, you have options for different systems.
1. Fleet tracking
A fleet tracking system lets you monitor a team of vehicles. You install a small device on each vehicle in your fleet. The device sends back information based on what product you choose. You can get location addresses, start and stop times and lengths of stops to more detailed information that helps you keep drivers productive and monitor hours and overtime.
2. Asset Tracking
Asset tracking systems have many of the same capabilities as fleet tracking. The difference is that you attach GPS devices to assets other than vehicles. Installing asset tracking on fixed assets, such as generators or pods, lets you know where the asset is at any given time. It’s a security measure that provides detailed status reports round the clock.
3. Portable Tracking
Portable tracking devices provide the same type of information as fleet tracking, but the difference is in the device. Instead of being using a power source from the asset or vehicle, these devices operate on battery power. You can attach portable tracking devices to assets that don’t have power or where you want to hide the device. These devices are as small as a car key and give you more options for GPS tracking.
Should You Track Your Fleet?
GPS tracking can help you comply with industry regulations by tracking a driver’s time and miles. And if you’re in the trucking industry, you know that the Federal ELD mandates specific reporting that fleeting tracking devices like Geotab Drive make easier.
Before installing any GPS devices in your vehicles, you should consult with your attorney to understand federal and state laws. You may also want to consider whether to tell your employees or not. You may want to get information on your employees without their awareness, but you might have problems if they think you don’t trust them.
Plus, when drivers know they are being tracked, it can reduce accidents by giving you information on driver safety. Tracking can also reduce inefficiency. Furthermore, GPS tracking isn’t just about catching dishonest employees. It can help you find stolen equipment or track down lost drivers.
Need help deciding which type of GPS tracking is right for your business?
Tracking devices can give you a lot of information. Discuss your needs with the specialists at GPS Technologies to learn more about the types of tracking.
Categorised in: GPS Tracking Service
This post was written by Writer