Management of fleet vehicles is crucial for businesses that rely on transporting goods for operating. For efficient fleet management, it is necessary to keep track of the fleet and monitor the routes. Fleet tracking is a critical part of fleet management.
Fleet tracking refers to the process of monitoring and managing a fleet of vehicles using advanced technology. An effective fleet tracking tool used by businesses is the Global Positioning System (GPS).
In this blog, we will dive into what GPS fleet tracking is and explore its importance and benefits of GPS vehicle tracking system in efficient fleet management. Read through.
What is GPS Fleet Tracking?
Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation technology. It provides location and time information to users. GPS is widely used for navigation, mapping, and tracking because it accurately determines the position/location of an object. By providing information on the vehicle’s location and routes, GPS helps maximize the efficiency of fleet operations. This is why fleet managers highly prefer using GPS fleet tracking services.
Fleet management is a high-risk challenge, especially when the fleet consists of a large number of vehicles. This is because a minor delay in delivery or breakdown of any vehicle can cause a huge loss to the business and its reputation. GPS fleet tracking is the process of using advanced navigation technology to give fleet managers greater insights into their fleet operations. GPS fleet tracking provides real-time insights into the fleet’s actual location, its speed, its direction, and the condition of the route. Fleet managers can access this data from a user-friendly mobile application or even a website. The GPS tracker provides an overview of the fleet’s performance.
How GPS Fleet Tracking Works?
GPS fleet tracking involves a GPS receiver that is installed in each vehicle. It connects to a group of satellites that identify your fleet’s vehicle location. The GPS tracker, through a technical process known as trilateration, uses the position of at least three satellites and the trackers’ distance from them.
Once the GPS tracker gathers this data, it transmits this real-time data to a cloud-based server or a central tracking system that is accessible by fleet managers. This data regarding location, speed, direction, and diagnostics of vehicle condition, fuel levels, and engine diagnostics is updated continuously for managers to monitor. Anyone using the fleet management software can access this information.
Types of GPS Fleet Tracking
Currently, there are several types of GPS fleet tracking available. Each of these is designed to meet specific business needs. Understanding these types will help you choose the right one for your business goals.
Real-time (Active) GPS Tracking
Active GPS fleet tracking systems provide constant and real-time updates to the cloud server. This gives visibility to fleet managers regarding the fleet’s movements and locations and delivers alerts anytime and anywhere. The system also updates data instantly within seconds, hence displaying live information to fleet managers.
Such type of fleet tracking is ideal for businesses that need immediate access to their fleet’s data, like delivery companies or companies that are running and managing time-sensitive operations. With active GPS fleet tracking, managers can see if their drivers are taking longer routes, whether there is a possibility for delays, or any minor breakdown that can potentially escalate into a major issue. This allows the managers and drivers to make immediate decisions, maximizing efficiency.
Passive GPS Tracking
Passive GPS tracking updates the fleet’s data differently. The information about the location and movement is recorded in a memory unit. The trackers store the fleet’s data in intervals or on trigger events, such as when the fleet reaches a specific location or crosses a boundary or a virtual boundary, for example, the outskirts of a city. Passive trackers then send the data to the server for analysis.
The GPS tracking does not rely on constant connection, and hence it is not transmitted in real-time. Rather, the data has to be manually downloaded following the fleet’s operations. As a result, these tracking systems are more cost-effective than real-time systems, making them a more affordable choice for businesses that do need constant updates. Passive trackers are mostly used to track the vehicle’s movements over a specific period and get insights into routes taken, idle times, etc.
Benefits of a GPS Fleet Tracking System
There are numerous benefits of a GPS vehicle tracking system with high impact. One of the most significant advantages is the ability to improve operational efficiency. By monitoring real-time vehicle location and movement updates, fleet managers can optimize routes, reduce idle times, and make sure that the fleet vehicles are being used efficiently. This saves time and reduces fuel costs, which makes up a significant portion of fleet operating expenses.
Additionally, GPS fleet tracking also ensures safer driver conditions by providing insights into driving behavior. Managers can address issues such as speeding, harsh braking, etc.
Conclusion
GPS fleet tracking is a system that uses GPS technology to monitor the location, movement, and status of vehicles in a fleet. There are several benefits of GPS vehicle tracking system, especially for businesses that rely on fleet vehicles for their operations. With multiple types of GPS fleet tracking systems available, it is now very easy for businesses to choose the right type for their specific needs.
You can collaborate with a trusted fleet services provider, like Epika, to leverage a GPS fleet tracking system and maximize your operational efficiency.
