GPS Tracker Buyers Guide

What are GPS trackers?

A GPS tracker is a device that tells you where your vehicles or assets are located, but the capabilities of the latest solutions go a long way beyond a dot on a map. These powerful tools use satellites to pinpoint location, capture engine diagnostic data and use cellular networks to send critical data to a fleet management software platform. This data can then be used to help owners and operators manage their fleets more effectively. Companies use GPS trackers to help them manage:

On-road trucks & other vehicles
Heavy construction equipment
Small powered assets
Non-powered assets

Why are businesses investing in GPS trackers?

GPS trackers vary in form and function, from plug-and-play units to professionally installed rugged devices that offer in-depth diagnostics. They cater to various needs, so whether you're managing a logistics, construction, or service fleet you can get a clear picture of your operation and ensure that its running efficiently, safely and in alignment with compliance requirements. Some of the key benefits include:

Enhanced productivity
Improved driver safety
Reduced fuel costs
Streamlined maintenance process
Simplified compliance
Reduced theft

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What should you look for in GPS trackers?

Many devices collect data from on-road vehicles, powered heavy equipment and non-powered assets. It’s important to understand your needs. Let's look at a few types of GPS trackers available and what each is best suited for.

Hardwired GPS trackers are permanently installed by professionals and are ideal for heavy-duty vehicles, where engine diagnostic data is required and driver hours of service records are maintained
Ruggedized hardwired GPS trackers are installed onto heavy construction equipment where durability is required and detailed engine data is needed to support maintenance programs
Self-install GPS trackers are devices that can be quickly plugged into a vehicle OBD2 port (most are suited for light-duty vehicles)
Ruggedized battery-powered GPS trackers are most compatible with non-powered assets requiring external installation and less frequent location updates

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Comparing GPS Trackers

The flexibility to meet the needs of any fleet

GPS Tracker - VT101

This hardwired device captures vehicle location, trip miles, engine data and driver safety data.

Real-time vehicle tracking and status updates
Captures safety events including harsh acceleration, braking and cornering
Integrated into TN360 and enables access to workflow apps
Sturdy hardwired device for increased security.
Captures detailed engine data the vehicle CANbus

Technical details

Size: Height: 126mm , Width 65mm, Depth 25mm
Weight: 150g
Connectivity: 4G Global LTE CAT M1 / NBO / GPRS

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GPS Tracker - VT202

This hardwired device has advanced telematics capabilities and greater connectivity to support your future needs.

Real-time vehicle tracking and status updates
Captures safety events including harsh acceleration, braking and cornering
Versatile GPS tracker that can track light-duty to heavy duty vehicles
Scalable solution with BLE connectivity and 3 serial ports
Captures detailed engine data the vehicle CANbus

Technical details

Size: Height 184mm, Width 82mm, Depth 31mm
Weight: -360g
Connectivity: Internal 4G LTE Cat M1 modem

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GPS tracker - SI201

The self-install GPS tracker is perfect for light-duty vehicles, tracking real-time vehicle location and driver safety data.

Simple plug-and-play installation into the vehicles OBD2 port
Integrated into TN360 and enables access to workflow apps
Captures safety events including harsh acceleration, braking and cornering
Captures detailed engine data the vehicle CANbus

Technical details

Size: Height 65mm, Width 46mm, Depth 24mm
Weight: 79g
Connectivity: 4G Global LTE CAT M1

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Asset Tracker - AT301

Ruggedized battery-powered GPS asset tracker for powered and non-powered assets.

Compact device perfect for placing on assets of all sizes
Long battery life that lasts up to 10 years
Easy to self-install
Future-proofed with dual 4G LTE-M1 and NB-IoT network
IP68 rated

Physical Specifications

Size: 108mm Height, 86mm
Width, 31mm Depth

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Equipment Tracker - RE200

GPS equipment tracker designed for the toughest environments

Capture data from GPS, GPIO and CAN bus
IP67 rated device
Explosive atmosphere (SAE J1455) and radiation immunity (SAE J1113) certified
Monitor asset utilization and fuel efficiency

Physical Specifications

Size: 130mm height, 73mm wide, 41mm Depth

Weight: 300g

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My boss and I can be in office and see who's where and whether they are getting to their destination on time. It makes my job a whole lot easier.

- Navajo DOT

I've always said we have fantastic drivers, but with cameras I now see how truly incredible their defensive driving skills are.

- P&B Transportation, INC.

What really pushes you to telematics is the data. The data you can gather is just amazing.

- Sherwood Construction

GPS Tracking Software

Vehicle tracking software harnesses the data collected by your GPS trackers to provide a comprehensive view of your fleets performance. By combining real-time vehicle location data, safety event monitoring and compliance workflows into a single platform, you'll get the insights to streamline your fleet operation. Key software features include:

Real-time location tracking
Geofencing and site reporting
Performance dashboards
Driver scorecards
Driver app ecosystem
Customizable reporting
Trip and event reporting
Proximity search and reporting

Software Features

Turn data into decisions and optimize your operation

Real-Time Tracking

Second by second tracking powered by Drone View.

Job Dispatch

Streamline job allocation and management.

Fuel Usage Monitoring

Lower cost by improving driver performance.

Insights and Alerts

Turn data into decisions and keep your fleet moving forward.

Maintenance Scheduling

Ensure your vehicles are always ready for the road.

Safety Analytics

Monitor behavior and reduce risk across your fleet.

Driver Scorecards

Recognize and reward your top performing drivers.

Video Telematics

Reduce risk with AI powered cameras and driver coaching apps.

How to choose the best gps trackers for your business

As you search for a partner for your GPS tracking solution, be sure you have a clear understanding of your business needs. GPS trackers come with a wide range of features that need to be carefully matched to your needs to realize the full potential of the technology. When evaluating providers you should ensure that the provider:

Offers second by second tracking
Provides geofence capabilities linked to reporting
Has in-depth reporting and dashboards
Includes carbon reporting
Includes driver safety scorecards
Has integrated driver apps
Has integrated video telematics solutions
Offers an open API and wide range of pre-built integrations

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GPS Trackers - Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to your questions about GPS trackers

A GPS tracking system uses satellite signals to determine asset locations. The tracker collects data and sends it via cellular networks to a cloud-based platform, allowing fleet managers to see real-time location and performance data.

GPS trackers optimize routes, monitor driver behavior, manage fuel consumption, schedule maintenance, and prevent unauthorized asset use, leading to greater efficiency, lower costs, and regulatory compliance.

Yes, rugged GPS trackers are ideal for heavy equipment, providing data on location, engine hours, and maintenance needs, ensuring machinery is well-utilized and properly maintained.

GPS tracking works for vehicles (trucks, vans, cars), heavy equipment, non-powered assets (trailers, containers), and portable powered tools. Virtually anything valuable that needs monitoring can be tracked.

GPS tracking enhances security by providing real-time location data, geofencing alerts, and easy theft recovery. Knowing where assets are at all times reduces the risk of theft.

GPS trackers reduce costs by optimizing routes, minimizing idling, automating maintenance, and reducing unauthorized use. Better management leads to fewer unplanned rentals and lower repair costs.

No, there is no limit. Platforms like Teletrac Navman's TN360 scale to accommodate fleets of any size, centralizing all data in one easy-to-use platform.

GPS Tracker Resources

Learn more about GPS trackers

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