Fleet tracking is a GPS-enabled service that helps businesses monitor their vehicles, employees, and goods. By enabling the service on a given vehicle or goods being tracked, an alert can be raised when someone enters the range of view of the device. With the right service, a history of the route traveled can be recorded and viewed for future reference. GPS is activated on a vehicle, device, or item to track a fleet in real time. The device communicates with the network, which then connects to a fleet management system (FMS). The FMS then emails or texts a fleet manager to inform them of the location of their fleet.
The most basic type of fleet tracking is GPS tracking. This system is ideal for highly mobile fleets that require real-time tracking over long distances. Owners or managers can track their assets by using the GPS systems in almost any vehicle, including cars, trucks, boats, and planes. However, this method of tracking can only be used in specific types of vehicles that have a built-in GPS device.
Moving beyond GPS, telematics offers a more in-depth solution for tracking the fleet. This method uses the same basic concept of global positioning, but it works in conjunction with other logistical data to enhance fleet management. Some data that can be tracked include engine diagnostics, driving behavior, fuel mileage, and even location. Telematics systems can be used in virtually any type of vehicle. They are especially ideal for fleet management as they can provide deep insights into employees' driving habits and help prevent expensive mistakes.
Asset tracking systems are a great option for companies that want to track hundreds of different assets but do not have the budget or workforce to equip each one with a GPS device. This type of tracking works by embedding a small chip or device into the tracked object. The system is then connected to the internet or a local server and the item can be viewed online. The embedded chip contains a unique serial number, which allows the system to generate updates that anyone with access can view.
Mobile fleet tracking systems have revolutionized how we access our vehicles. These GPS-enabled devices are now compact enough to fit into a purse or pocket, making it easy to access your car when needed. Mobile tracking systems can also track large deliveries, including truckloads and other shipments. Users can access and view updates almost anywhere on their smartphone or computer. This type of tracking should not be confused with the use of a telematics system as the two are not interchangeable.
Wearables are the latest technological advancement in fleet tracking. Whether tracking medication, cigarettes, or a prosthetic limb, the wearable device plugs into a port built into the user's clothing. The device contains an embedded chip that stores information about how well the wearer performs their job. Managers can then access this data daily. Wearables are perfect for tracking assets that are not always in the same location.
Fleet management software is a relatively new concept, but it is quickly gaining popularity. This type of system is used to organize and track data and improve productivity. Other benefits include improved customer service, fewer accidents, and reduced operating costs. Software specifically designed for fleet management can be used on almost any vehicle, including cars, trucks, and forklifts. The benefit of software over traditional tracking devices is that it is less intrusive, making the entire process more cost-effective.