Improve Operations with a GPS Tracker for Commercial Vehicles
Commercial vehicles play a vital role in the supply chain of goods & services. The conventional goods-transporting truck has changed and adopted a variety of technologies. Innovations from manual steering to power steering, diesel engines to electric-powered vehicles, and traditional braking system to ABS braking systems have emerged, gained significance, and improved performance. Global fleets have undergone a revolutionary change due to the introduction of fleet GPS trackers.
What is GPS tracking?
GPS tracking is using the Global Positioning System to track an object, person, or entity remotely. GPS tracking is aided by 24 evenly spaced satellites orbiting the earth and enables users with ground receivers to determine their geographic location.
How does GPS tracking work?
To locate a person or an object using geographic positioning GPS tracking devices operate by transmitting radio signals and connecting to those satellites. A GPS tracking gadget quickly downloads the information and pings those satellites after installation. Latitude and longitude are used by satellites to determine the precise location and estimated distance of a given point.
With GPS tracking, anyone can track their vehicles or loved ones. People use personal GPS devices to track personal goods or keep tabs on loved ones. Similarly, firms utilize asset monitoring to keep track of their priceless physical assets.
Real-time GPS tracking, also known as active tracking, requires continuously watching or following anything you want.
Types of GPS trackers
Depending on the size of the fleet, several fleet trackers are customized to meet particular needs. The industry generally uses three different types of GPS tracking devices. Each tracker has its distinct feature and utility, depending on the need of the fleet owner.
Plug-In Trackers
Plug-in trackers are devices that plug directly into your vehicle’s OBD-II port. They are compact and easy to operate. Plug-in trackers are suitable for personal use as well as commercial purposes.
Hardwired Trackers
Hardwired trackers are wired into the vehicle and cannot be easily tampered with. They can be easily installed and can remain hidden. These trackers can remotely disable the ignition in case of attempted theft.
Battery-Operated Trackers
These trackers are ideal for personal use for tracking your loved ones. They are portable and can be carried in your bag or pocket as they hardly occupy space.
How do GPS trackers improve operations for commercial vehicles?
Amplify Productivity
GPS trackers give fleet managers greater visibility of their operations. The productivity of fleet operations can be increased by locating a driver and analyzing the quickest paths to the desired location. It helps in getting reports on fuel consumption, driver behavior, and engine idling which enable you to assess the efficiency of your employees and reduce operating costs.
Driver Behavior Monitoring
Driver conduct needs close monitoring to reach the maximum levels of productivity and efficiency. The GPS tracker should be capable of tracking and transmitting information about the truck’s location and vehicle data, including temperature, odometer readings, engine RPM, GPRS status, throttle position, and many other variables.
You should be able to track the pace of your drivers and examine their aggressive driving practices like speeding, abrupt braking, cornering, and stop sign infractions. You may train your drivers to improve their performance proactively and hold them accountable by using reports and customized notifications.
Reduce Downtime and Maintenance Costs
Reducing downtime is linked with productivity. A reliable GPS tracking system will assist you in making better-informed decisions and decrease your vehicle idling time.
Modern GPS tracking systems have cutting-edge telematic capabilities like engine temperature monitoring, fuel level indicators, and vehicle diagnostics. Through a web-based tracking dashboard, a sophisticated GPS tracking system displays alarms and provides maintenance reminders. It also sends fleet managers an email or text message through the reporting suite.
Therefore, visiting a mechanic for a routine vehicle inspection won’t cost you any money. Instead, you can use information from the fleet management software system to decide whether an inspection is required.
Customizable alerts
An advanced GPS tracking system should be able to give regular and real-time customizable alerts. The alerts should be customizable and include the following:
- Long idle times alerts where the vehicle is idling for a longer than usual time.
- Route deviation alert when the vehicle has veered away from a charted route.
- Over-speeding alert when vehicles travel over specified speed limits
- A vehicle maintenance alert notifies when a specific vehicle’s maintenance is due or approaching.
Monitoring Vehicle Use
Utilization analysis is gradually becoming a key metric for determining a vehicle’s efficiency. An efficient GPS tracking system keeps track of each vehicle’s usage to look for unlawful behavior like speeding or improper lane change. Vehicle tracking systems offer thorough utilization reports that give you all the information you need to make decisions about your assets and vehicles. It could mean you need to downsize your fleet or increase vehicle economy.
Customer Satisfaction
Installing a GPS tracking device to ensure that your fleet is delivered on schedule goes a long way in achieving customer satisfaction. You can give your clients real-time ETAs and the fleet route with a GPS tracking device. Quick responses result in appreciative, contented clients, fostering a fruitful, long-term commercial relationship. You’ll deliver better customer service and project a professional image to your clients if you can provide them with a clear picture of the happenings with your fleet.
There is a plethora of GPS trackers available in the market. Before deciding on a suitable tracker, it is essential to understand the requirement of your business and fleet. Fleet tracking requires a comprehensive service provider who can check off all the necessary boxes. Matrack fleet tracking is an all-inclusive solution for all fleet-related requirements. With its features and capabilities, Matrack GPS trackers can prove to be a trustworthy business partner for you.
Matrack GPS Fleet Tracking Solution
Matrack XT-2469 OBD
The XT-2469 OBD is a standard OBD2 device and plugs into your vehicle’s OBD port. The XT-2469 helps you get DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) reports in case of an onboard issue.
Some Product Features
- Real-time Tracking & Log reports.
- Geofencing System.
- Dispatch Manager System.
- IFTA Fuel Tax Reports.
- Blink Roadside Assistance.
Matrack XT-2169 Hardwire
The XT-2169 Hardwire is tamper resistant and a discreet device for fleet and transport services. The hardwired device may be covertly wired anywhere in the truck due to its small size, direct battery connection, and extensive feature set.
Some Product Features
- Custom Alert Settings.
- Arrival Tracking System.
- Preventative Maintenance Alerts.
- IFTA Fuel Tax Reports.
Matrack MA-HW Silver Weatherproof Hardwire
The MA-HW Silver is a discreet, water-resistant, and weatherproof device that can survive extreme conditions. The device acts as a telematics system and an asset-tracking device with fail-safe features.
Some Product Features
- Virtual Ignition Mode.
- Aggressive Tracking Mode.
- Geofence/Aggressive Tracking Trigger.
- Real-Time Tracking & Travel Log Reports.
- IFTA Fuel Tax Reports.
- Various Customer Alert Settings.
- Preventative Maintenance Alerts.
Conclusion
GPS tracking is not just about being guided or reaching your destination. GPS tracking capabilities have expanded to include a variety of solutions that boost productivity. Fleet owners have the opportunity to plan their strategy and enhance their business thanks to GPS tracking solutions that include driver monitoring, lower maintenance costs, customized reports, fleet usage monitoring, and personalized alerts. GPS trackers are a must for commercial vehicles as they will benefit your fleet and business in the long run.