What are Your Methods for Tracking Fleet Vehicles?

Last updated on December 29, 2022

Tracking fleet vehicles is an essential aspect of fleet management, as it allows businesses to optimize routes, reduce fuel consumption, and improve the efficiency of their operations. 

Tracking fleet vehicles can help businesses to reduce costs, improve customer service, and increase the efficiency of their operations.

 By knowing the location and movement of their vehicles in real time, businesses can optimize routes, reduce fuel consumption, and improve their fleet utilization. Various methods are available for tracking fleet vehicles, each with advantages and disadvantages.

This article will discuss these methods in detail and provide an overview of their features and benefits. So, let’s get started!

1. GPS tracking

GPS tracking is a fleet vehicle tracking system like RAM tracking widely used for tracking fleet vehicles, as it allows businesses to accurately track the location and movement of their vehicles in real-time. GPS tracking systems typically involve installing GPS devices in each vehicle communicating with a central server through a wireless network. Fleet managers can access this server through a web-based platform or a mobile app, allowing them to view the location of their vehicles on a map in real-time.

GPS tracking systems can provide a range of benefits to businesses, including:

• Route optimization: GPS tracking allows businesses to optimize routes by identifying the most efficient routes and avoiding traffic congestion or other delays. This can help to reduce fuel consumption and improve the efficiency of fleet operations.
• Speed monitoring: GPS tracking systems can monitor the speed of vehicles, allowing businesses to ensure that their drivers are adhering to speed limits and driving safely to help reduce the risk of accidents and improve driver safety.
• Unauthorized use: GPS tracking systems can alert businesses if a vehicle is being used outside of authorized hours or its designated area of operation.

2. Telematics

Telematics is a technology that combines GPS tracking with other data sources, such as engine diagnostics, fuel consumption, and driver behavior. Telematics systems provide a more comprehensive view of fleet operations, allowing businesses to track their vehicles’ location and performance and efficiency.

Telematics systems typically involve the installation of specialized hardware and software in each vehicle, which communicates with a central server through a wireless network. Fleet managers can access this server through a web-based or mobile app, allowing them to view a range of data about their fleet operations.

Telematics systems can provide a range of benefits to businesses, including:

• Real-time tracking: Telematics systems allow businesses to track the location of their vehicles in real-time, just like GPS tracking systems. This can help to optimize routes, reduce fuel consumption, and improve the efficiency of fleet operations.
• Performance monitoring: Telematics systems can provide data about the performance of vehicles, such as fuel consumption, engine diagnostics, and driver behavior. This can help businesses to identify areas for improvement and optimize their fleet operations.
• Maintenance reminders: Telematics systems can provide reminders for scheduled maintenance and alert businesses when a vehicle needs to be serviced. This can help to prevent breakdowns and improve the overall reliability of the fleet.

3. Radio frequency identification (RFID)

RFID is a tracking method that uses radio waves to communicate with tags attached to vehicles or other assets. RFID readers can read RFID tags installed at various locations, such as gateways, loading docks, or fueling stations. RFID systems can track vehicles’ movement within a specific range and provide additional information, such as the type of cargo being transported.

RFID systems typically involve the installation of RFID tags on vehicles and RFID readers at key locations. When an RFID-tagged vehicle passes within range of an RFID reader, the reader sends a signal to the RFID tag, which then transmits its data back to the reader. This data is then sent to a central server, which fleet managers can access through a web-based or mobile app.

RFID systems can provide a range of benefits to businesses, including:

• Real-time tracking: RFID systems allow businesses to track the movement of their vehicles in real time, as long as they are within range of an RFID reader. This can help to optimize routes, reduce fuel consumption, and improve the efficiency of fleet operations.
• Asset tracking: RFID systems can be used to track the movement of other assets, such as containers or pallets. This can help businesses optimize their logistics operations and ensure that assets are used efficiently.

4. Automatic vehicle location (AVL)

AVL is a tracking method that uses specialized software and hardware to track the location of vehicles in real-time. AVL systems typically involve installing in-vehicle devices communicating with a central server through a wireless network. Fleet managers can access this server through a web-based platform or a mobile app, allowing them to view the location of their vehicles on a map.

AVL systems can provide a range of benefits to businesses, including:

• Real-time tracking: AVL systems allow companies to track the location of their vehicles in real-time, just like GPS tracking systems. This can help to optimize routes, reduce fuel consumption, and improve the efficiency of fleet operations.
• Route optimization: AVL systems can use real-time traffic data to optimize routes and avoid congestion or other delays. This can help to reduce fuel consumption and improve the efficiency of fleet operations.
• Performance monitoring: AVL systems can provide data about the performance of vehicles, such as fuel consumption and engine diagnostics. This can help businesses to identify areas for improvement and optimize their fleet operations.

5. Manual tracking

Manual tracking is a simple and low-cost method for tracking fleet vehicles. It involves using manual records, such as paper logs or spreadsheet documents, to track the movement and location of vehicles. Manual tracking requires manual input from drivers or other staff, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors.

Manual tracking can be done using a range of methods, including:

• Paper logs: Drivers can use paper logs to record their trips, including the start and end times, the route taken, and any stops made. 
• Spreadsheets: Spreadsheets can be used to track the movement and location of vehicles in real-time or periodically. 

Manual tracking is suitable for small fleets or businesses with limited budgets. It is relatively simple and low-cost, as it does not require purchasing or installing specialized hardware or software. However, manual tracking is time-consuming and prone to errors, requiring manual input from drivers or other staff. It may also not provide as much detail or features as other tracking methods.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tracking the fleet makes it possible to add a lot of efficiency to business operations. In most cases, it saves time and adds security. Each method has advantages and disadvantages, and businesses should consider their specific needs and budget when choosing a method for tracking their fleet.