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A GPS fleet management system can improve your efficiency and save your business money.
Fleet management is the process by which a company’s vehicles are monitored and controlled, including driver training and policy enforcement. Today, fleet management typically involves the use of GPS fleet management software, which uses tracking hardware to send data to fleet managers in near real-time. If you run a business that utilizes a fleet of vehicles, it’s helpful to use telematics like these to track each vehicle, improve driver safety and issue status reports. These solutions prioritize efficiency, help you save money and can keep your fleet compliant with important state and federal regulations.
We’ve put together this buying guide to help you know what to look for when selecting a GPS fleet management provider. This guide answers common questions associated with fleet tracking services, highlights key features and costs and recommends high-quality vendors to consider.
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Think of GPS fleet management as virtual ride-along technology. Instead of hiring a manager to sit in the passenger seat and monitor your company’s vehicles and drivers on the road, GPS fleet management lets you keep an eye on everything from wherever you are. This type of solution helps ensure vehicles are operating efficiently and that drivers are being safe and responsible.
GPS fleet management includes both hardware and software. The hardware is used to track your vehicle and how it is being operated. The type of hardware your vehicle will need will vary based on what you want to be monitored. Some services offer easy, plug-and-play trackers that are about the size of a deck of cards. Other setups require more advanced installation, which usually involves hooking up various sensors to the information centers of your vehicle.
The vehicle is then tracked using a GPS. The hardware sends real-time updates and data to the software, which serves as a central hub for all of the information about your fleet. You can monitor your fleet remotely on any internet-connected device that has the software platform installed.
Technology has revolutionized the way small businesses operate and running a fleet of vehicles is no exception. If you don’t take advantage of modern-day fleet management solutions in your day-to-day operations, you’re missing out on opportunities to increase your company’s efficiency and save money.
Fleet management software not only allows you to keep tabs on your vehicles and other assets but also helps you with fuel management, delivery route optimization, vehicle and driver communication and long-term logistic planning.
In today’s economy, information is power. By using telematics software, you’re opening up a new door to data and other information about your business and how you manage your fleet of vehicles or other assets. With that knowledge, you can improve operations.
GPS fleet management software can locate vehicles, set up routes and give directions to assigned destinations. These programs also provide information on vehicle diagnostics, maintenance tracking and safe driving behaviors. For example, a lot of GPS fleet management hardware devices are outfitted with accelerometers and other sensors, so if your driver suddenly brakes or accelerates, it will be documented in the software logs. Some services even offer reporting on harsh turning and cornering. This technology also allows you to track idling time, which is vital for improving fuel efficiency.
All of these software features combine to provide you with a platform to monitor your fleet, manage vehicle health, understand your drivers’ habits and track fuel efficiency. Most systems also come with dispatching tools and scheduling capabilities to improve workflow. These features can boost customer satisfaction by, for instance, providing delivery recipients with more accurate ETAs. Other popular functions include accident tracking, roadside assistance, anti-theft service, time clocks and attendance tracking.
Pricing for GPS fleet management services can vary greatly based on what you want managed and tracked and how many vehicles you have in your fleet. On average, prices range from $25 per month, per vehicle, to $35 per month, per vehicle.
In addition to the monthly costs, there is often a one-time fee for the hardware that goes in each vehicle, though some providers allow you to rent the equipment for an added monthly fee. Many GPS fleet management vendors require you to sign a one- to three-year contract. However, some services come with free trials and money-back guarantees, giving you an opportunity to test the solution before committing to a long-term agreement.
To choose the GPS fleet management system that’s right for your business, first make sure it has the features your company needs. Most fleet management providers offer a variety of functions that come in a standard offering. At the very least, your package should include the following:
Some vendors provide additional features that are either included in their standard plan or cost extra.
The ideal GPS fleet management solution will also offer the following:
While the fleet management system you choose should fit your budget, don’t pick one solely on price. Rather, select the solution that best helps your business track your fleet and reduce operational costs. If you choose the cheapest service, it may not perform as well as slightly more expensive offerings.
As you look for a GPS fleet management service, keep these details in mind.
Here are some of the benefits of using GPS fleet management software:
Despite all of the above benefits, there are a few downsides of GPS fleet management software:
Of the many GPS fleet management providers on the market, below are some of the best ones to consider for your business.
GPS fleet management provider and review | Best for |
Driver accountability | |
Improving driving standards | |
Industry-specific firms | |
Granular reporting | |
Startups and small businesses | |
Personalization | |
Easy implementation | |
FleetUp Review | Mixed fleets |
Getting your fleet on the road is a key step in running your business. After that comes managing your fleet. GPS fleet management software makes tracking all the key information related to your drivers and vehicles relatively easy. You’ll find these details stored in a central online location so you can see the ins and outs of your fleet’s activity and make operations adjustments as needed. With software that’s as powerful as it is simple, you can reap all the benefits of a safe and efficient fleet.
Shayna Waltower contributed to this article.