Since your vehicles are your prime assets, it is vital to have proper security measures that evolve as the theft technology improves. That’s where a GPS fleet tracking system comes into the scene.
How Can GPS Fleet Tracking System Help Secure Fleets?
The automotive industry has been striving to enhance security, with one significant improvement being car keys [2]. But, modern theft advancements have unfortunately allowed thieves to bypass these measures. Here, GPS tracking comes in, offering a top solution to this growing problem.
1. Geo-Fencing
Geofencing helps you create virtual barriers around a defined geographical area. Every driver notifies the managers via message or a sign-out alert about leaving the premises. If there is no authorization, an alert beeps, which notifies the vehicle owners that the vehicle is leaving the pre-logged destination.
Instant notifications allow for timely actions, such as alerting authorities or activating anti-theft measures, thus preventing the theft altogether. Moreover, geofencing offers an extra layer of security, which makes it difficult for thieves to escape.
2. Tracker Disconnected Alerts
Vehicle thieves have a common practice of removing or dismantling the GPS tracking devices before driving the vehicle away. Once disconnected, a GPS is nothing but a plastic chunk. Formerly developed GPS trackers had no disconnecting alerts.
However, observing the issue, many manufacturers have installed disconnection alerts that notify the owners if someone tempers with the GPS fleet tracking system [2]. These alerts come in handy as they allow vehicle owners to take quick action for vehicle protection and help nip the theft in the bud.
3. Remote Immobilization
What if there was a way to disable your vehicle so the thief can’t drive it away? This was a major concern back in the day. However, modern-day GPS trackers have remote immobilizers installed, which allow owners to turn off the vehicle’s engine.
Trackers with immobilizing features have two parts: the navigating part and the immobilizer part. Once the immobilizer deactivates the vehicle, you can easily locate its location with the GPS tracking system. Thieves are more doubtful about car thefts as they are aware that there is no stealing an immobilized vehicle.
4. Reliable Connectivity
Your GPS tracker is no good if it cannot find the network signals to communicate the vehicle’s location. Fortunately, some trackers have numerous connectivity options to ensure real-time location tracking every time.
There are GPS fleet tracking systems available that offer connectivity via cellular networks, satellites and even Wi-Fi [3]. When choosing a GPS tracker, ensure that there is reliable connectivity so there is less inconvenience in areas with less coverage.
5. Route Playback
Every driver has a driving pattern that never matches with someone trying to make off with your fleet’s vehicle. Therefore, advanced GPS trackers nowadays come with built-in storage to save the vehicle’s location history.
Analyzing the vehicle’s previously visited sites gives valuable insights and can often help in avoiding a potential theft. You can also ask the driver to verify themselves through facial identity, and if the driver is someone unauthorized, you can easily disable the vehicle.
6. Battery Operated
Commonly, a GPS fleet tracking system is hard-wired to your truck’s battery supply. But if, for some reason, the power supply is cut, the tracker ceases to function. Therefore, manufacturers are now incorporating secondary power sources to ensure a seamless operation.
Battery-operated GPS trackers don’t need regular charges. A typical GPS tracker battery lasts for one month to one year, depending upon the model [4]. It is a life-saving advancement. Otherwise, fleet companies with a large number of vehicles will have to deal with the nuisance of charging each car.
7. User-Friendliness
Nobody wants a GPS tracker with a knotty interface. The concept of user ease in the navigation industry has significantly reduced vehicle thefts, as owners can easily comprehend the information needed to protect their vehicles.
Moreover, most GPS tracking systems have compatibility with renowned fleet management software to prove easily accessible features. You can also share the dashboard’s access to your team for increased collaboration and security.
8. Real-Time Alerts
Every time there is a vehicle theft in Hollywood, thieves overspeed to escape. Things would’ve been way easier if heroes had GPS devices. A GPS fleet tracking system sends you instant alerts for unexpected conditions.
For instance, there are alerts available for overspeeding, excessive braking, breaching geofencing, etc. This way, you can get a heads-up if something is shady and take appropriate measures to prevent any mischievous situations.
Things To Consider When Choosing The Right GPS Fleet Tracking System
When selecting a GPS fleet tracking system for your company, it’s essential to consider some uncompromisable factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and requirements. The pointers below will help you make the right choice:
- Firstly, determine the specificity of the tracking system, whether it’s improving efficiency, reducing fuel costs, or enhancing vehicle security.
- Next, search for features that align with your goals. Commonly most trackers offer real-time tracking, geofencing, etc. However, some advanced ones also have driver behavior monitoring, secondary power sources, and customizable reporting.
- It’s better to choose a scalable system so you can easily accommodate the increasing number of vehicles and users.
- An incompatible GPS fleet tracking system is no good. Hence, ensure that it integrates with your existing fleet management software and other infrastructures.
- Read user reviews of different GPS trackers can prefer those known for their reliability and accuracy.
- A friendly user interface is equally important to ensure a seamless workflow.
- Never jump to decisions without comparing different GPS tracking systems. Access subscription plans to find one that fits your budget.
Conclusion
Vehicle theft poses a constant threat to fleet businesses, and investing in the right GPS fleet tracking system can be a game-changer. With features like geofencing, remote immobilization, and real-time alerts, GPS systems offer robust protection against theft.
Navigation systems provide peace of mind by safeguarding valuable assets and also enhance operational efficiency and accountability. By scrutinization of factors scalability, compatibility, and reliability, you can choose a tracking system that streamlines your business operations.
FAQs
- Are GPS trackers legal worldwide?
In most states, GPS fleet tracking systems are legal. However, it is illegal to track someone for unlawful reasons without their consent.
- Will installing a GPS tracker lower my fleet’s insurance?
Most automobile insurance companies offer discounts for vehicles with GPS trackers as there are relatively fewer risks of thefts and accidents. But still, you must discuss with yours to know more on the topic.
- Do GPS trackers affect the performance of the vehicle?
Modern-day trackers are energy efficient and don’t take a bigger toll on the vehicle’s battery. However, if you are uncomfortable with battery-wired trackers, you can choose battery-operated ones.
- Can GPS trackers be hidden from thieves?
Yes, they can. But you’ll need to discreetly install them in vehicles, making them difficult for thieves to detect or remove.
References:
[1]https://sirixmonitoring.com/blog/gps-tracker-role-deterring-and-solving-car-theft/
[2]https://titangps.com/blog/prevent-vehicle-theft-with-gps-fleet-tracking/
[4]https://www.workyard.com/employee-time-tracking/gps-tracking-battery-life
