Fleet Tracking
Additional Add-on Services
Aug 07, 2024
Van tracking is a key component of effective fleet management. It provides real-time insights into vehicle locations, driving behaviours, and operational efficiency. With advancements in technology, van trackers have become invaluable tools for fleet managers aiming to streamline operations and enhance security.
There are two primary types of van trackers available on the market today: wired and wireless. Each has its own set of advantages and considerations, making it essential for fleet managers to choose the right one for their specific needs.
First, let’s take a look at exactly what van tracking is and how it works. Van tracking involves the use of GPS technology to monitor the location and movements of vans within a fleet. This technology plays a crucial role in fleet management by providing real-time data that helps managers keep track of their vehicles, ensuring they are used efficiently and safely.
The system works by installing GPS devices in each van, which communicate with satellites to determine precise locations. This data is then transmitted to a central platform, allowing fleet managers to view the information via a user-friendly interface, typically accessible on desktops and mobile devices.
Implementing GPS van tracking systems offers several significant benefits. Firstly, it improves operational efficiency by optimising routes and reducing travel time. Real-time tracking allows for immediate adjustments to be made, ensuring that drivers take the most efficient paths, avoiding traffic and other delays.
Secondly, van tracking enhances security and theft prevention. With features like geo-fencing and remote immobilisation, managers can set virtual boundaries and disable vehicles remotely if unauthorised movement is detected, thereby protecting assets.
Lastly, GPS tracking contributes to better route optimisation and fuel savings. By analysing driving patterns and routes, fleet managers can reduce unnecessary mileage and fuel consumption, leading to substantial cost savings and a smaller carbon footprint.
Wired van trackers are installed by integrating them with the vehicle’s electrical system. This involves connecting the tracking device directly to the van's power source and ACC line.
The installation process depends on the type of system you choose. At Fleetsmart, we offer professionally installed systems or self-fit plug & play trackers. Once installed, the tracker continuously collects and transmits data to a central system, providing real-time updates on the vehicle’s location and status.
One of the main advantages of wired trackers is their reliable power source. Since they are connected directly to the vehicle’s electrical system, there is no need to worry about battery life. This ensures continuous tracking capabilities, making them ideal for businesses that require constant monitoring of their fleet.
Additionally, professionally installed wired trackers include more technology such as accelerometers. This means wired systems offer greater features for enhanced security and efficiency, such as a driver behaviour suite which notifies managers of speeding and excessive idling, providing an additional layer of efficiency and safety on the roads.
What’s more, wired trackers can help to keep you on top of your vehicle maintenance schedules, by sending alerts when a vehicle is due for a service and MOT.
With all of this additional information provided by wired trackers, businesses can save a significant amount in fuel costs each year. At Fleetsmart, we typically expert customers to see a return on their investment within 90 days, including any initial payments and a full year’s subscription.
Fleets with a more significant potential for improvement can expect a much quicker return on investment; typical savings experienced per vehicle are £1,000-£2,000 per annum.
The installation process can be more complex and may require professional assistance depending on the system you opt for, which can increase the initial setup time. Wired trackers are typically more expensive too, due to the added range of features they offer.
Wireless van trackers operate using an internal battery, eliminating the need for a direct connection to the vehicle’s power supply. This makes the installation process much simpler, as the tracker can be placed in a convenient location within the vehicle without the need for extensive wiring.
The data collected by the wireless tracker is transmitted via cellular networks to a central system, providing real-time updates on the vehicle’s location.
The primary advantage of wireless trackers is their ease of installation. Since they do not require integration with the vehicle’s electrical system, they can be installed quickly and easily, often without professional assistance. This makes them a more cost-effective option initially.
Wireless trackers are also highly portable and flexible, making them ideal for businesses with a diverse fleet or those that frequently change vehicles.
Despite their benefits, wireless trackers also have some limitations. Their battery life is finite, meaning they require regular maintenance to ensure continuous operation. Additionally, wireless trackers may experience signal interference, particularly in areas with poor cellular coverage.
This can affect the accuracy and reliability of the tracking data. Regular checks and maintenance are necessary to keep the trackers functioning correctly and to replace batteries as needed.
Wireless trackers also cannot provide the same level of information as wired trackers as they do not include as much internal technology like accelerometers, which can detect harsh acceleration and braking.
The installation process for wired trackers is generally more complex and may require professional assistance depending on the type of system you choose. Professional installation takes around 45 minutes to an hour, while plug & play self-fit trackers take as little as 15 minutes with no prior experience.
Wireless trackers on the other hand are much easier to install and can be set up in a matter of seconds.
However, wired trackers require less ongoing maintenance since they do not rely on battery power, whereas wireless trackers need regular battery replacements and checks to ensure they remain operational.
Wired trackers generally have higher initial installation costs due to the complexity of the setup process and the additional range of features they offer. However, they may have lower long-term maintenance costs since they are powered by the vehicle’s electrical system.
Wireless trackers, on the other hand, have lower initial costs but may incur higher long-term expenses due to the need for regular battery replacements and maintenance.
At Fleetsmart, our professionally installed vehicle trackers cost just £8.95 per vehicle/month, while our self fit plug & play devices cost as little as £6.95 per vehicle/month!
Wired trackers tend to offer more reliable performance due to their continuous power supply and stable connection to the vehicle’s electrical system. They are less susceptible to signal interference compared to wireless trackers, which rely on cellular networks and battery power.
Wireless trackers can be affected by poor cellular coverage and battery life, potentially compromising their reliability.
Both wired and wireless trackers offer various security features, but wired trackers generally have more robust anti-tampering measures due to their integration with the vehicle’s electrical system.
When selecting the best tracker for your vans, it's essential to assess your fleet's specific needs. Consider factors such as the size of your fleet and the types of vehicles you operate. Larger fleets with diverse vehicle types may benefit from the robust capabilities of wired trackers, while smaller fleets or those with frequent vehicle changes might find wireless trackers more suitable.
Additionally, consider your operational requirements and goals. For instance, if your primary goal is to enhance security and prevent theft, a wired tracker with advanced security features might be ideal. On the other hand, if ease of installation and flexibility are more important, a wireless tracker could be the better choice.
Balancing initial costs with long-term savings is crucial when choosing a van tracker. Wired trackers typically have higher upfront installation costs due to the complexity of integrating with the vehicle's electrical system.
However, they often incur lower long-term maintenance costs as they draw power directly from the vehicle. Wireless trackers, while cheaper to install, require regular battery replacements, which can add to the long-term costs.
Understanding the return on investment (ROI) for each type of tracker is essential. As we mentioned above, we expect the typical business to recover their investment within 90 days. So while the initial cost of wired trackers may be higher, consider the potential savings from improved efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and enhanced security when evaluating your budget.
Combining GPS tracking with telematics provides a comprehensive solution for fleet management. Telematics systems offer detailed insights into vehicle performance, driver behaviour, and overall fleet efficiency.
By integrating GPS tracking, you can enhance route optimisation, monitor real-time vehicle locations, and gather valuable data to improve decision-making. This combination helps in reducing operational costs, improving safety, and increasing the overall productivity of your fleet.
Fleetsmart provides advanced telematics solutions that seamlessly integrate with GPS tracking systems. Our offerings include real-time tracking, driver behaviour monitoring, geo-fencing, and predictive maintenance.
Using Fleetsmart’s integrated systems allows fleet managers to see the full picture when it comes to their operations, enabling them to make informed decisions based on accurate data.
The advantages of using Fleetsmart’s telematics solutions include enhanced operational efficiency, reduced costs, and improved safety and compliance.
Wired van trackers are connected directly to the vehicle's electrical system, providing continuous power and reliable tracking. Wireless van trackers, on the other hand, operate using an internal battery.
Wired trackers are generally more reliable due to their constant power supply and stable connection. However, wireless trackers offer flexibility and ease of installation, which can be beneficial in certain scenarios despite potential signal interference and battery life concerns.
Wired trackers typically have higher installation costs because they may require professional installation to integrate with the vehicle's electrical system. Wireless trackers have lower initial costs due to their simpler installation process, often not requiring professional assistance.
Wireless trackers can be more susceptible to tampering because they are not integrated into the vehicle's electrical system. However, they can be securely placed within the vehicle to minimise this risk.
Wireless trackers require regular maintenance to replace batteries, typically every few months to a year, depending on usage and battery capacity. Wired trackers require less maintenance as they draw power from the vehicle's electrical system.
Wired trackers can be better for large fleets that require robust, continuous tracking and enhanced security features. Their reliability and lower long-term maintenance costs make them suitable for managing extensive fleets effectively.