What to Consider When Evaluating a Fleet GPS Tracking System
25 Mar 2015You know that fleet GPS tracking is essential for a company your size. But it how do you decide which one of the GPS tracking models to get? You need to do a thorough evaluation of your needs and then match them to the wide range of features available.
Evaluating Your Business
The big question is what is your main concern, the problem you expect the software to fix. The usual reasons are:
- reduce theft and risk
- monitor your drivers and their performance
- stop moonlighting
- improve delivery times and efficiency
- reduce engine idling
- improve the route planning for fuel efficiency and to reduce slowdowns due to traffic conditions
- do a better job of customer service
- lower fuel costs and the need for maintenance and repair
Do you prefer to buy or lease? This will focus which companies’ products you look at.
After you figure out why you’re getting the system, you can start matching those needs with the what’s available.
Evaluating the Equipment
There is a wide range of features offered for GPS tracking equipment. With your purpose in hand, you can start looking at specific brands.
The first big decision is whether you want a device that is installed or web based, also called cloud-based. There are three big advantages of cloud models:
- Updates are the responsibility of the supplier, so you no longer have to worry about them.
- Downtime is minimal.
- They are accessible from any location with access to the internet.
You want to know if the model can be upgraded and reprogrammed, to add to its useful lifespan. It is always wise to get one that is tamper proof.
Never work with a supplier that can’t explain exactly how the system works. The technology is complicated. You will be relying on them for support. Make sure that initial technical support and training is included in the price. Find out if they charge for ongoing support.
Here is a look at some of the most popular features on major GPS tracking devices:
- Accident tracking
- Fuel management
- GPS integration
- Dispatch management
- Driver management
- Maintenance tracking
- Fuel management
- Routing
- Inspection management
- Mileage tracking
- Inventory management
- Motor pool
- Daily rental
- Maintenance scheduling
- Parts Management
- Tool tracking
- Vehicle Information
- Tire management
- Vehicle tracking
- Work order management
The reports that GPS monitoring software produces can make your life much easier. Make sure you can customize which reports you get and how easy it is to email them to others.
The number of devices you use in your trucks and offices will have a big effect on the overall cost. Ask about licensing restrictions on the number, either of users, devices or systems.
It can take some time to find the right fleet GPS tracking system. And it’s worth it. The more research you do, the better match you’ll find. That saves money and frustration for you and your drivers.
At LiveView GPS, we’re here to help you decide which GPS fleet tracking is right for your business. Call us at 1.888.502.3636.
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