Best GPS Fleet Tracking Devices | What You Need To Know
How do you know your fleet vehicles are where they are supposed to be? With over 2.5 million fleet trucks serving businesses, this is a popular question.
To answer it, all you need to do is start using a GPS fleet tracking system. We are going to help you sort through the many options by highlighting some of the best GPS fleet tracking software options.
Let's get started!
What to Look for in a GPS Device
Before we get started talking about the best GPS tracking software, let's do a quick review of what you should look for in your software.
Reliability
Check in the historical performance of the software. Ask about the total amount of downtime it had last year. If the software isn't reliable, then neither is its tracking, and neither will be your data.
Integration
Do you already use software for other areas of your business? If so then you'll want your GPS tracking to integrate. Otherwise, you'll set yourself up for a lot of busywork.
With integration, your tracking data can combine with your accounting software and you can accurately track the cost of operation for your fleet.
Usability
It doesn't matter how many features your software has, if it is hard to use, no one will want to use it. You need tracking software that will increase productivity through streamlining processes.
Scalability
Right now your fleet is small, but hopefully, it won't stay that way. Look for a system that will work for you now, but can also grow with you. Otherwise, you'll waste time and money to find a new system every time you outgrow your current system.
Security
When the world's largest shipping company gets hit by hackers, it's a sign that you need to up your security. Hackers look for the weak point in your system to gain access to your vital data. Don't let your GPS tracking software be the weak point in your system.
Here are some of the best GPS device options money can buy:
Fleetio
For usability, Fleetio is hard to beat. Their modern and clean looking interface makes it appealing to use. Their software also works well to manage fleets across multiple industries.
It also excels when it comes to integration making it work well for fleet management. Part of this is integrating a fuel card system for the drivers of your fleet. If you use QuickBooks or Xero for your accounting, then you'll also be able to integrate with them.
Verizon Connect
If you already use Verizon, then this service will make it easy to start using their tracking service. It's a cloud-based software which makes it work well for collaboration and integration.
While the service works well for various business sizes, it is limited when it comes to business industries. If the purpose of your fleet is to make service calls, then this tracking system will work well for you.
Your tracking system can also sync with accounting software for a holistic view of your business.
Nextraq
When safety is a priority, Nextraq comes through with the most comprehensive safety features of any of the options on this list. This will let you understand your fleet and keep your drivers safe. Remember, a safer fleet means lower insurance costs.
You have the option of choosing a simple plug and play system, or something more advanced. Once installed, you will have access to live reporting. You can also set up automatic reporting.
Fleetistics
If you are new to fleet tracking and not sure you're ready to commit. Fleetistics can work with you by offering both short and long term contracts. This kind of flexibility translates throughout the entire software.
Their system works well with very small to medium-sized businesses. So scalability is a strength here.
Fleetmatics
This is another tracking system that is perfectly geared for those small to medium-sized businesses. If you have multiple locations, you especially need to take a closer look. Their system is web-based, making collaboration across offices a breeze.
You can also get highly detailed reporting about the vehicles. This isn't offered by some of the other options on this list.
Rhino
Rhino offers a plug and play option that makes installation and setup easy. Plug the tracker into your fleet vehicle's OBD II port, and you're done.
As your business and fleet grow, you will need a more sophisticated system. Rhino can provide that for you. This lets you scale up while staying with the system you are familiar with.
Networkfleet
For real-time updates on your fleet's status and location consider this option offered by Verizon. There is also the option of scheduling alters for almost everything. This includes inventory, GPS, and maintenance and repair status.
It also offers the most in scalability as it can work well for businesses sized small to large. The best part about this is if you use Verizon you can grow with ease.
Brickhouse Security
This is a company that has its main focus in security, so they are a leader when it comes to providing the most secure tracking system. You can get more than just GPS trackers. You can also add hidden cameras, alarm systems, and security.
Along with the increased level of security, you get increased monitoring abilities. You can manage the fuel consumption of each vehicle, optimize routes, and monitor your driver's performance.
Which GPS Fleet Tracking System Is Right for You?
Consider the size of your fleet, budget, and integration needs when comparing your GPS fleet tracking options. You will want to choose the option that will make your life easier and more productive.
Once you decide what features are most important to you, you can start comparing your options.
Start comparing quotes to find the best GPS fleet tracking system for your business.
Author: Hudson Piccini
Hudson Cynar, a Harvard University alumna and the owner of three prosperous enterprises, is a distinguished business consultant, author, and writer. Her expertise spans multiple business sectors, with a particular emphasis on storage containers, commercial copiers, payroll services, and medical billing software. Dedicatedly investing thousands of hours into product and service research, Hudson crafts insightful reviews to guide entrepreneurs in making informed decisions for their businesses.
