What Are the Different Types of Vehicle Tracking and Fleet Management Systems?

Getting from point A to point B might seem simple, but managing logistics involves far more than just transportation.

Whether it’s getting employees to the office or ensuring timely deliveries, multiple factors must be managed:

• Current location
• Destination
• Schedules
• Traffic
• Preferred routes
• Diversions
• Parking
• Fuel levels

Managing a fleet of vehicles introduces additional complexities such as:

• Rising fuel costs
• Increasing maintenance expenses
• Safety concerns
• A commitment to excellent customer service

Over the years, fleet managers and logistics professionals have developed several strategies to tackle these challenges, and GPS vehicle tracking has emerged as one of the most effective solutions.

What Is GPS Vehicle Tracking?

GPS (Global Positioning System) is a navigation system that uses satellites to pinpoint locations on Earth. By measuring the time it takes for signals from satellites to reach a receiver on the ground, GPS can triangulate the receiver’s exact position.

With several satellite networks available, including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou-2, GPS tracking systems provide high redundancy for more accurate location data.

Applications of GPS in Vehicle Tracking

While GPS technology was initially developed for military use, it is now widely used in everyday applications such as:

• Navigation
• Tracking systems (e.g., for phones or pets)
• Location-based services
• Autonomous vehicles (AVs)
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

In logistics, GPS has evolved from a simple navigation tool to an essential part of fleet management, improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.

Types of GPS Vehicle Tracking Systems

Vehicle tracking systems can be divided into two main categories:

1. Hardwired or Embedded GPS Trackers These systems are directly wired to the vehicle’s engine or cabin and typically use the vehicle’s battery for power. They are resistant to tampering and are often integrated with the vehicle’s security system for added protection.
2. OBD II Port Based GPS Trackers These trackers plug into the vehicle’s OBD II port, drawing power from the vehicle’s system. They are capable of tracking more than just the vehicle’s location, such as fuel levels and ignition status.

How Does Fleet Tracking Work?Fleet tracking systems can be divided into two types:

• Active Systems: These systems provide real-time tracking, sending location data via cellular networks to a control center.
• Passive Systems: These systems log data and store it for later retrieval, offering a low-cost solution but lacking real-time tracking capabilities.

Active systems, while more expensive, are preferred because they offer live data that can be used for real-time decision-making and optimization.

How to Install Vehicle or Fleet Tracking Systems?

Installing a GPS tracking system is typically done in two steps:

1. Choose the Location for the Tracker
   The tracker should be discreet, often hidden under the dashboard or in the engine block, ensuring it remains out of sight and resistant to tampering.
2. Connect the Tracker to the Vehicle’s Battery
   Most active tracking systems draw power from the vehicle’s ignition, ensuring the system is powered when the engine is running.

Costs Involved in Vehicle Tracking Systems

Several factors contribute to the cost of installing a vehicle tracking system, including:

• Hardware: The cost of the GPS tracking device and any additional components like antennas or data storage modules.
• Installation: Professional installation may be required, especially for complex systems.
• Connectivity & Data Plans: Active tracking systems often rely on cellular networks, which come with ongoing costs for data plans.
• Fleet Management Software: The cost of software that aggregates and analyzes tracking data for fleet management.

Benefits and Limitations of GPS Vehicle Tracking Systems

GPS vehicle tracking offers numerous benefits, such as:

• Real-time visibility into fleet locations, improving route optimization and reducing fuel consumption.
• Enhanced safety with features like driver behavior monitoring and automated alerts for incidents.
• Cost savings from improved operational efficiencies and reduced insurance premiums.

However, there are limitations, such as:

• Dependence on vehicle owner compliance: GPS tracking is only effective if all vehicles in the fleet are equipped with tracking systems.
• Inability to track cargo: GPS tracking cannot monitor goods within warehouses or when vehicles are parked.
• Limited last-mile visibility: Tracking systems can’t confirm when deliveries are completed, particularly for drivers who delay paperwork.

14 Features of a Good GPS Vehicle Tracking System for Logistics and Fleet Management

A good GPS vehicle tracking system should offer:

• Reliability: The system should be resilient to signal loss, especially in remote areas.
• Tamper-proofing: Systems should prevent or detect attempts to disable the tracker.
• Redundancy: Backup data storage ensures that tracking is not interrupted by signal issues.
• Accuracy: The system should use multiple GPS networks for improved precision.
• Discreetness: Trackers should be small and stealthy for security purposes.
• Cost-effectiveness: The system should provide value over its operational life.