Do you manage a fleet of vehicles for your business, such as delivery trucks or service vehicles? Then, choosing the right GPS tracking system is important. A good tracking system can help you keep tabs on your fleet to help things run smoother.
But with all the different types of trackers out there, it can take time to pick the best one. No matter how small or large your logistics connections are, the right GPS tracking system will be a game changer in your fleet management.
This article will give you some tips to help you select a tracking system that works well for your fleet.
1. Define Your Tracking Goals
Knowing what you need is best before shopping for a GPS tracking system. Ask yourself these questions:
How many vehicles would you want to track?
What data do you want to collect?
Does it need to be in real-time, or will a report prepared daily suffice?
What other specific problems are you looking to solve with this solution? For example, is it about reducing fuel costs or improving driver safety?
Knowing your needs will allow you to make the right choices when narrowing down options and arriving at a system that is just right for the business. The more precise you are about your requirements, the better you’ll be able to track for trucks or other fleet vehicles effectively and efficiently.
2. Embrace Real-Time Monitoring
Live tracking is the most essential feature of any great GPS. It lets you know your vehicle’s whereabouts at any given time, not just at the end of the day.
Real-time tracking proves useful for responding quickly to customer requests, finding a lost or stolen vehicle, and ensuring drivers are where they’re supposed to be.
3. Prioritize User-Friendly Software
You won’t do well with the best GPS tracking system in the world if you can’t work out how to use it.
Look for a system that has user-friendly software. It should be easy to install, configure, and perfect for daily use. Numerous systems have mobile apps, so you can check up on your fleet even when you are not by your desk.
4. Leverage Insightful Reporting
A quality GPS tracking system should do more than allow you to see your vehicles’ locations. It should further mastermind reports you will find handy when making sensible business decisions.
Some of the things that you would look out for in a system include:
How much fuel does each vehicle use?
How fast are your drivers?
When do vehicles require servicing?
Which routes are most efficient?
Such information helps you maintain your budget and keep your fleet on the right track.
5. Seamless Software Integration
If you are already using some other software to operate your business, you should consider a GPS tracking system that can work with those other programs. This is what you call integration.
For example, if one uses accounting software, one may wish to have a GPS capable of sending data directly into it. This can help save time and errors caused by manual data entry processes.
6. Check Geo-Fencing Capabilities
Look for the geofencing feature in the GPS tracking device. Using the geofencing feature, you can plot areas on the map, like virtual boundaries. It prompts you whenever a vehicle enters or leaves these areas.
This help to ensure drivers are on point with the area they are supposed to be in or alert you when a vehicle has arrived or checked out of a job site.
8. Evaluate Hardware Durability
The software is only as good as the actual physical device you put in your vehicles. Look for hardware that’s:
Durable (able to bump around in all weather conditions)
Tamper-proof (so it can’t be easily disconnected or messed with)
9. Balance Costs and Value
Naturally, price is always the factor. GPS tracking systems have two prices in general:
Hardware acquisition cost and installation costs are paid at once
Service-related subscriptions are paid every month
When you’re doing that price comparison, make sure to account for both of those costs. Sometimes, a higher-cost system means a lower monthly fee, which could save you a buck in the long run.
Wrapping Up
Selecting an ideal GPS tracking system is a big decision, but it should certainly not be overwhelming. Focusing on requirements, for example, can help you select a device that will propel your business to the top.
Remember: the best system fits your purpose and budget. Do not hesitate to ask for demos or trials of the solution before purchase. When you finally purchase, train your team to use it correctly.
With the best GPS tracking system in place, you would completely control your fleet. This means that numerous other benefits trickle down to the customers besides saving on fuel and maintenance. It is an investment that pays off.
So, do your research and take the time to choose the right system that will help enhance your business.
Also Read: Maximize Fleet ROI with GPS Tracking
