There are tons of new technologies available in today’s world, allowing us access to tools that are useful for both personal and business matters. One of the resources that has become indispensable in the transportation and logistics sector is GPS tracking, which allows people to know where their vehicles are at all times. It’s likely that you have already used GPS technology in the past, as it is already included in smartphones and even computers. Still, not everyone is familiar with GPS tracking for fleet trucks.
As mentioned, the essential of these systems is to help you know the location of every asset that belongs to you or your company in real-time, including other information like:
- The optimal route for certain duties
- How much time it takes your drivers to perform tasks
- The fuel utilized during each trip
- Data for strategic planning and future improvements
This way, one can say that a GPS fleet tracker system may only be beneficial. Is that truly the case? Let’s explore the benefits and challenges of asset tracking.
How Does Asset Tracking Work?
If you’re interested in tracking the fleet, you are also probably curious about how the technology works. For starters, GPS software obtains its material from satellites, which are in charge of transmitting information related to the location and time through devices like computers or smartphones. Again, all this data is obtained in real-time.
While this is the basic way of functioning for a GPS fleet tracker, bear in mind that modern technologies also include new features that are meant to benefit companies. These innovations allow those in leadership positions to understand how their company works better and to identify potential faults or inefficiencies. Thanks to all this real-time data, asset trackers allow people to obtain valuable insight for optimized decision-making and enhanced operational efficiency.
Benefits of GPS Tracking for Fleet Trucks
A GPS fleet tracker can be an excellent option for your business if you want to improve efficiency and ensure that your productivity levels are optimal. There are a wide variety of benefits to take into account when it comes to these systems, including the following:
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Real-time Visibility
The first and most obvious benefit of asset tracking is that you will be able to view where your vehicles are at all times. You will be granted access to the real-time location of every asset you own and is registered within the system, allowing you to ensure the correct functioning of your company.
This data is beneficial because all the necessary information will be handed to you via a reliable system. You won’t have to worry anymore about manual updates from drivers, which may not be accurate or efficient all the time and may lead to delays or miscommunications.
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Improved Security
When it comes to safety and security, GPS tracking systems are one of the most powerful allies you can include in your company. Being able to see where your vehicles are in real-time is truly a game-changer, allowing you to:
- Monitor routes
- Respond to emergencies promptly
- Enhance fleet safety
In addition to this information, you will also be able to avoid replacement costs in the case of vehicle theft. You will know the exact location of your assets, allowing you to work with the authorities in the most efficient manner if one of these situations pops up.
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Better Efficiency
Being able to see where your vehicles are at all times can also be beneficial for your business when it comes to customer satisfaction. Asset tracking software also allows you to analyze routes and determine the best ways to approach certain duties, allowing you to continue improving the efficiency and productivity of your drivers in the long run.
Furthermore, you will also be able to offer the clients the opportunity to see where their vehicles are in real-time, allowing you to nurture a more intimate bond with each customer who relies on your business.
Challenges of GPS Tracking for Fleet Trucks
Tracking a fleet may seem beneficial, but it also comes with its own set of challenges and drawbacks. Here is what leaders need to take into account when implementing these systems:
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Privacy Concerns
While most leaders would benefit from knowing where their vehicles are in real-time, it also withdraws privacy from your drivers, putting them in uncomfortable positions as it could lead to micromanaging. You can avoid potential conflicts or miscommunications by being transparent with your drivers and letting them know about the system, ensuring they are familiar with each aspect of it.
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Inaccuracies
We have mentioned that asset trackers are quite precise, but that may not be the case 100% of the time due to signal disturbances. If there is something obstructing the signal of the GPS, you may not be able to obtain the information you need. This is especially true when the driver is currently going through an underground tunnel, for example. The signal will eventually pick up, but the system may not provide the best data for a while.