Like large enterprises, small businesses also need an effective fleet management system for efficient operations and administration. Fleet tracking is no longer reserved only for businesses of large sizes with big budgets; affordable fleet tracking systems are now available for small businesses’ efficiency.
Continue reading to explore how GPS fleet tracking systems work, their key features, why small businesses need them, and how to choose the right one.
What is GPS Fleet Tracking?
A GPS fleet tracking system is a small gadget that tracks logistics and vehicles using the Global Positioning System (GPS) [1]. A fleet tracker gives fleet managers up-to-date data and insights about the vehicle and its assets.
In contrast to conventional trackers, fleet trackers offer essential data, asset locations, driver behavior insights, and analytics that support informed decisions to enhance security and operational efficiency.
Businesses of all sizes that depend on vehicles and logistics must use fleet trackers to improve their efficiency, reduce losses, and enhance security. Contemporary GPS trackers offer scalable, long-lasting, and reasonably priced options to enhance operations without completely replacing current systems.
Why does Small Business Need Tracking?
Fleet trackers are powerful tools for businesses that rely on vehicles or logistics. Loss of any small business asset can result in significant financial strain [2]. Let’s find out why fleet trackers are necessary and their benefits.
Improves Operational Efficiency
Fleet tracking systems track fleet location and monitor driver behavior, all of which help improve business efficiency. GPS trackers also provide optimized routes for reducing fuel usage [3] and timely deliveries.
Safety and Security
Every fleet manager must prioritize the safety of assets and drivers [4]. Fleet trackers monitor driver behavior to avoid harsh driving, speeding, and idling. Real-time alerts notify fleet managers in case of driver misbehavior or theft detection.
Cost Reduction
Route optimization can help drivers avoid traffic or unnecessary areas, and monitoring driver behavior can reduce unauthorized vehicle usage and speeding. Modern fleet trackers also alert managers for vehicle maintenance. These features of the tracking system reduce fuel, maintenance, and wear and tear accident costs.
Improved Customer Service
Route optimization features enable fast delivery times, which can enhance customer trust. Tracking goods and services and providing real-time insights and responses to customers’ queries can also improve customer service.
Key Features for Affordable Fleet Tracking System
Small businesses have their distinct requirements. They need tailored solutions for their problems. The tracking system that provides affordability with efficient and modern facilities is the best one. Let’s consider some key features you must look for:
Real-Time Location
Knowing the vehicle’s real-time location can enable fleet managers to make informed decisions. Real-time location updates are necessary for business efficiency and improvement. Fleet managers can make quick changes like rerouting due to traffic, responding to emergency alerts, and optimizing timely deliveries.
Cloud Storage
Fleet tracking systems with cloud storage features provide managers with access to real-time fleet data and insights. Managers can have seamless access to critical data such as location, history, and driver behavior to make informed decisions and respond anytime from anywhere [5].
Monitor Driver’s Behavior
Fleet trackers monitor drivers’ speeding, harsh braking, and idling behavior and send alerts to managers. This core feature helps improve driver behavior to reduce fuel usage, enhance security, and lower accident risks. Some fleet trackers also provide feedback on driver behavior to promote safer and more efficient driving practices.
Vehicle Maintainance
Advanced GPS trackers can provide maintenance alerts when vehicle maintenance is due. Frequent maintenance can prolong the life of your asset, lower the chance of malfunctions and costly repairs, and avoid downtime. Scheduled maintenance for tire rotations, oil changes, and other updates can keep your vehicle running smoothly.
Scalability
Solutions are necessary for small businesses to expand. Trackers must be scalable to add more assets. Scalability features and reasonable prices make them more effective for expanding companies.
How to Choose the Right Fleet Tracking System?
Choosing the right fleet tracking system for small businesses with careful consideration is crucial. Here are the steps for selecting the right tracker.
Define Your Goals
Identify your primary goal first, which you need to achieve through the GPS tracking system. For example, do you need to enhance delivery times, driver safety, route optimization, or operational costs? Defining your objectives can help you select the tracker with the right features [6].
Evaluate the Software
Every device does not have the same features. Evaluate the device properly and take time to analyze it. Many companies allow free software testing, so take the chance and explore the features and user interface to your satisfaction.
Cost
Analyze recurring costs like initial hardware or software installation fees and subscriptions monthly or annually. Watch out for any unstated fees associated with customer service, updates, and modifications.
Customer Services
Companies should prioritize customer service in case of any customer queries. The company should deliver outstanding customer service in technical support, training, and resources [7].
Conclusion
Small businesses no longer have to rely on manual tracking systems. Affordable and advanced features of the fleet tracking system. A GPS fleet tracking system can provide valuable insights and data to make informed and data-driven decisions.
Choosing the right fleet tracking system is essential. Key factors include real-time data, cloud storage, monitoring driver behavior, vehicle maintenance updates, and scalability. First, you set your goals, test the software, analyze costs and customer service, and select the one that best matches your needs.
FAQs
- How do GPS fleet trackers operate, and what are they?
GPS trackers use satellites to track vehicles and provide fleet managers with real-time location information and valuable insights. Fleet trackers boost company productivity, enhance safety, and monitor driver behavior.
- Why are fleet tracking systems necessary for small businesses?
Installing fleet tracking in the vehicles is necessary to improve and increase the business’s efficiency and stay competitive. Affordable options with advanced features are now available for safety, efficiency, and timely delivery.
- How much does a fleet tracking system installation cost?
The cost of the fleet tracking system depends on multiple factors, like the number of vehicles you need to implement and which features you need for your fleet. Fleet trackers are now available at affordable prices for all sizes, from small to large enterprises.
- Can I customize my fleet management system?
Yes, a fleet management system can be customized according to your business’s unique requirements of monitoring driver behavior, reducing fuel usage, or enhancing customer trust.
- How can I choose the best fleet tracking system for my business?
First, identify the business goal you expect from GPS trackers, evaluate the software, analyze the overall cost of the trackers, and check customer service.
References
[1] https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/GPS-tracking
[2]https://www.nu-vector.com/blog/best-affordable-gps-trackers-small-business
[3]https://fleetr.com/fleet-tracking-services-for-small-business/
[7]https://uffizio.com/blog/best-gps-fleet-tracking-for-small-business-a-complete-guide/
