Trucks are an asset to your business, and they must work well to ensure their profitability. However, manually inspecting and tracking each vehicle in your fleet is tiresome and time-consuming. Moreover, you may miss out on other important tasks related to maintenance checks.
So, how does a truck GPS tracker system benefit your business? Is it truly worth the hype and as effective as current business owners claim it to be? Here, we’ll explore everything about truck GPS tracking systems and how they improve the efficiency and productivity of your fleet operations, potentially leading to increased profitability.
What Is A Truck GPS Tracker System?
A truck GPS tracking system is very similar to a regular fleet GPS tracking system. However, this one is custom-made for trucks. Installed in trucking fleets, these systems give real-time insights and visibility that assist decisions that ensure driver safety, less fuel consumption, and better fleet allocation [1].
GPS trackers fall into two categories: plug-and-play and hard-wired. Both these categories are also available for truck GPS trackers. A hard-wired GPS connects to the truck’s electric system and employs satellite-based tracking. In contrast, plug-and-plug trackers plug into your truck’s OBD-II port to communicate location data [2].
The Benefits Of Using A Truck Tracking System In Present-day Logistics
Before investing in technology, it is vital to consider its positive aspects. Normally, business owners consider truck tracking a fancy tool for location identification. However, its benefits go way beyond that.
Route Optimization
Choosing a longer route due to the premises’ unfamiliarity is a nuisance for the driver and consumes more fuel and time. Increased fuel costs upset your budget and cause more harm than good.
Installing a GPS tracking system in your trucking fleet helps you keep track of your trucks. You can easily visualize all the possible routes for the target job location, allocate the closest truck, or simply inform the driver to take the optimal route.
Decreased Fuel Expense
Fuel costs are rising every day, and to maximize your business’s benefits, it is critical to manage your fuel spend. Unfortunately, this is impossible without an effective truck GPS tracker.
Practices like engine idling, over-speeding, and harsh braking take a good toll on your fuel tank and, ultimately, your monthly expense. A GPS will notify you when the fuel tank drops rapidly and also indicate the reason for the drop. Implementing fleet GPS tracking helps cut down 30% of fuel costs. [3]
Higher Security
Vehicle thefts are common worldwide, and fleet companies are no exception. However, installing a truck tracker can help you avoid this inconvenience. Moreover, you can see if the staff is using the truck off-duty hours or if there are any detours.
A GPS tracking system can also help you locate your stolen vehicle, as the thief may be unaware that the vehicle has a tracker. You can also set up a geofence for every job, so you’ll get an alert if the vehicle deviates from its path.
Driver Behavior Tracking
You can help drivers learn good driving habits with audible and visual effects via the truck GPS tracker. GPS trackers have driver analysis software installed that can reveal real-time details of the driver’s performance and behavior.
Moreover, trend insights can help you create personalized training programs for high-risk drivers [1]. You can also use these insights to reward drivers for prompting safety for themselves, the cargo, and other road users.
Better Customer Satisfaction
Delayed shipments infuriate customers. However, delayed shipments with no situational updates are ferocious. A GPS tracking system can help you avoid that, as you can communicate the cargo’s current status and give them an updated ETA.
Furthermore, it also helps you digitalize the proof of delivery and any necessary paperwork. In case of conflicts, you can show your clients the digital footprint about when and where the shipment was delivered and who received it [4].
Things To Keep In Mind When Investing In A GPS Tracking System
Considering investing in the technology because of its benefits is not bad. However, investing in without contemplating the present scenario’s requirements is. Here is a quick list of things you must mull over before shopping for a truck GPS tracker.
Consider Business Needs
When deciding on a trucking fleet GPS tracking system, its functionalities must align with your business requirements. Assess the challenges or goals you aim to address with the system.
If you prioritize route optimization and reduce fuel consumption, you’ll want a system that offers robust routing and scheduling features tailored to the trucking industry.
Customer Support
Reliable customer support is indispensable when integrating a new technology into your operations. Ensure the truck GPS tracker service provider offers comprehensive customer support services, including troubleshooting assistance and software updates.
A responsive support team can minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations, enhancing your overall experience with the system.
Ease of Installation
The ease of installation can significantly impact the implementation process and fleet’s downtime. Evaluate whether the GPS tracking system offers plug-and-play or hard-wired installation options. Also, double-check things like the complexity of your fleet’s vehicles and the expertise of your maintenance team.
Straightforward installation procedures can streamline the deployment process and minimize operational disruptions.
Compare Setup Costs
Assessing the setup costs associated with different GPS tracking systems is crucial for budgetary planning and cost-effectiveness, as the upfront expenses are usually high.
Therefore, it is essential to consider the annual ROI before finalizing[5]. While cost is an important factor, prioritize value over price by considering the system’s features, scalability, and long-term benefits for your business.
Final Verdict
To conclude our debate on truck GPS trackers, you have guide-101 on truck tracking. Remember that GPS trackers deliver more than just indicating the vehicle’s location. They help you attract happier customers, prompt safe drivers, and save fuel costs.
However, purchasing the right GPS for your truck fleet requires some critical considerations (mentioned above) and a market search. FleetPeek is your best shot if you have a trucking fleet to track and want to bucket a reputable service provider.
FAQs
- How does truck GPS tracking work?
Truck GPS tracker utilizes satellite technology to monitor vehicle location in real-time, aiding route optimization, security, and efficiency.
- Is internet connectivity necessary for GPS to work?
A GPS tracking system, independent of internet access, relies on satellite signals to determine location.
- Is it necessary to have a SIM card for a GPS to work?
Yes, a SIM card is typically necessary for GPS systems to work, as it enables communication between the device and servers. [6]
- How does a GPS tracker track fuel consumption?
A GPS tracker monitors fuel usage by analyzing engine data, tracking mileage, and using fuel sensors.
External Links
[1]https://www.teletracnavman.com/fleet-management-software/truck-tracking
[2]https://forcefleettracking.com/blog/gps-fleet-tracking-purchasing-guide/
[3]https://blog.fleetcomplete.com/saving-fuel-with-gps-tracking/
[4]https://www.samsara.com/guides/gps-tracking-for-trucks/
