Running a fleet of vehicles can be quite challenging, most especially as you will need to stay on top of several aspects of operation, including each vehicle’s schedule and route, safety standards compliance and fuel management. Having GPS tracking systems for fleet management is vital to ensure ease of operation in terms of knowing real-time traffic information and visibility, monitoring driver’s behavior and optimizing vehicle operation.


In choosing the right GPS tracking device for trucks, you must ensure that it can deliver real-time updates on your fleet operation and meet the other demands of your business.



Types of GPS Trackers



There are various types of GPS tracking devices available in the market today, which include:



Battery-Powered GPS - A battery-powered GPS tracker is a standalone device that does not depend on a vehicle's power supply. This can be operated through rechargeable or long-lasting batteries. Some models provide short-term updates to save battery life duration.

Hardwired GPS - A hardwired GPS is connected directly to the vehicle’s power supply. It is a go-to tracker because it can be hidden anywhere under the dashboard, and it has power level and fuel monitoring features.

OBD II GPS - An OBD II GPS, also called a plug-in GPS tracker, is an easy-to-install device that plugs into the vehicle’s OBD II port, allowing you to track your vehicle through vehicle maps. This GPS tracker is meant primarily for passenger vehicles and usually comes with an internal backup battery and extension cable. It also provides alerts when the vehicle is on or off.





Tips on Choosing the Right GPS Tracker



You must consider several factors, so you can choose and purchase the best fleet GPS tracking system for your business. Make sure to take note of the following below:



What Do You Want to Track with GPS Fleet Tracking?

It is highly important to consider the purpose of your GPS fleet tracking before anything else. The use of GPS tracking devices depends on the type of vehicle and needs of your business (e.g., tracking the locations of your vehicles or monitoring vehicle operation and fuel management).



Do You Need Constant/Real-Time Tracking or Periodic Updates Only?

Real-time GPS fleet tracking uses satellites to operate its GPS system and real-time features to provide live tracking, which helps determine your vehicle’s precise whereabouts at any time. It also has a software feature called geofencing, which notifies you if an asset enters or leaves certain areas.

Meanwhile, periodic updates provide long-term tracking by configuring the device to send a single update at a specific time span for battery life conservation.





Do You Need Short or Long-Term Tracking?

You must consider the performance of the GPS trackers and which is suitable for your needs. Short-term tracking devices can monitor for the duration of days or weeks, while long-term tracking devices can track for months or years.



Do You Need Extensive Monitoring for the Condition of the Vehicle and Cargo?

There are several GPS fleet monitoring devices that not only track the location of your vehicles, but also deliver real-time reporting on all aspects of fleet management. Some tracking devices provide specific details such as the cargo-hold’s temperature, vehicle’s performance and driver’s behavior.



Proprietary or Non-Proprietary GPS Technology?

GPS tracking devices can be classified as either proprietary or non-proprietary. Proprietary devices are restricted to a specific, branded software, whereas non-proprietary devices are compatible with many third-party software.



What Is Your Budget?

The price of GPS tracking systems for fleets vary depending on a specific brand and its features. Some GPS devices have fuel and impact sensors, so you need to choose a GPS tracker that suits your requirements and budget.



Vectras’ GPS Tracker for Cars and other Vehicles



As a leading GPS supplier, Vectras’ lineup of tracker products guarantees advanced fleet tracking due to its robust and cost-effective devices that can easily access and monitor fleet operation.


More importantly, Vectras is an LTFRB-accredited GPS provider. We provide GPS tracking technology for public transportation systems as well as for logistics truckers, delivery services, company vehicle fleets and others. Vectras also provides mobile CCTVs, and 4G and 5G routers.