GPS Fleet Tracking Solutions

GPS Fleet Tracking Solution Basics

Wouldn't it be great if you could monitor your fleet in real time on a single computer screen? Now you can with GPS fleet tracking solutions, the latest class of products that uses technology to deliver real benefits to small businesses.

GPS fleet tracking solutions leverage the same satellite-based technology as consumer grade navigation devices.

But instead of giving your drivers turn-by-turn navigation instructions, they give you information about your fleet's location, measure travel time, and monitor vehicle/driver efficiency.

The advantages of fleet tracking systems vary based on the type of system you purchase and the features it offers. Even so, companies who use GPS fleet tracking consistently report several benefits, not the least of which is dramatically improved fuel efficiency.

GPS Tracking System Overview

Using GPS technology, fleet tracking systems either transmit or store data about your fleet's location, performance and activities. If a driver makes an unscheduled or unauthorized stop, your tracking system will tell you about it. The possibility of real-time tracking gives central dispatch the ability to accurately route the fleet and reporting features can be incredibly useful for rooting out inefficiencies due to idling or poor scheduling.

Types of GPS Fleet Tracking Systems

There are generally two types of GPS fleet tracking systems available on the market. Passive tracking systems store vehicle data in an onboard device that can later be connected to a central computer through a PC plug-in or a short-range wireless network. Although you'll lose the advantage of real time data, you'll gain a cost benefit because the only expense is the price of startup equipment. Real time tracking systems use similar equipment, but the difference is that they transmit data back to your office in intervals ranging from every 2 seconds to every 10 minutes. In addition to startup equipment costs, these systems also require a monthly per-vehicle service charge.

Cost Advantages

Companies who implement GPS fleet tracking realize immediate savings from reduced fuel consumption. Since drivers know they are being monitored, they avoid unauthorized side trips and shave 15% off the company's fuel bill (on average). Studies have also shown that GPS fleet tracking systems improve productivity by as much as 42 minutes/day per driver. As an added perk, GPS tracking gives your accounting department the tools needed to generate accurate bills and invoices instead of relying on employee logs or job estimates.

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