Geo tracking has changed how the  most competitive fleets operate. No longer a “nice to have,” fleet telematics and geo tracking devices keep fleets safer, more efficient and boost the bottom line. Installing geo tracking devices provides a big return on investment for fleets in a competitive marketplace.

Just how do geo tracking devices and their related systems help fleets? The advantages include boosting safety, increasing productivity, optimizing operations, promoting sustainability and ensuring better regulatory compliance.

What Is Geo Tracking?

Geo tracking refers to the use of technology to determine the exact location of a person or object using a connected device. In the case of individuals, it is typically their smartphone. For fleets, it’s connected devices placed on vehicles that continuously transmit its location.

Today, geo tracking is most frequently associated with fleets that use the innovative technology to optimize operations. By knowing the location of all important assets, including vehicles, powered assets and non-powered assets, they can make operations more efficient, effective and, ultimately, profitable.

Geo Tracking and Commercial Fleets

In the past few decades, geo tracking devices have revolutionized fleet management. Managers now have the ability to make better, data-driven decisions on important issues such as the best, safest routes for deliveries, the type of vehicle to use in any given situation, and matching the best drivers with the type of jobs where they perform best.

Connected devices give route dispatchers the option of altering routes in real time to avoid dangerous areas or improve delivery time. Geo tracking also helps prevent theft by tracking the real-time location of all assets.

Vehicle tracking. Connected systems provide vehicle location and also monitor vehicle performance, giving managers an alert about a potential issue before it becomes the cause of a roadside breakdown.

Powered asset tracking. In addition to vehicles, geo tracking also is useful to keep track of engine-powered equipment, including compressors, yellow iron, water pumps and flameless heaters.

Non-Powered Asset Tracking. Rugged geo tracking devices that can withstand harsh elements and tough working environments send location and use information on non-powered assets such as frac tanks, roll-off boxes, trailers and generators.

Advantages of Geo Tracking Systems

Geo tracking provides a wide variety of advantages.

Employee productivity. Connected devices in commercial vehicles can track not only location, but also monitor driver behavior when connect with an in-cab camera. These digital tools also provide real-time driver coaching and alerts to avoid risky situations and driving behaviors. Data from geo tracking systems also helps fleet managers match the right driver with the right vehicle.

Optimize operations. Geo tracking devices work in tandem with other systems to help manage a host of frequent challenges for managers. They include fleet fuel consumption, by giving managers more control over when and how fuel is purchased, as well as maintenance schedules, advanced route planning and secured vehicle access for shared fleets.

Driver safety. The safety of drivers always is top of mind for fleet managers. Geo tracking allows them to take steps to improve safety, including the ability to use data to track driver performance in a variety of situations, as well as real-time driver coaching.

Sustainability. Connected systems that monitor engine performance and fuel consumption can help managers get a more accurate picture of their fleet’s environmental impact. It also helps them develop plans to reduce carbon emissions and create lasting change.

Regulatory compliance. This is one of the biggest challenges for fleet managers. A host of issues can impact regulatory compliance, including accurate tracking of drivers’ Hours of Service and filing the proper reports on vehicle use. Automated systems connected with geo tracking devices can ensure better compliance with Department of Transportation regulations.

These represent some of the ways that geo tracking can enhance fleet performance. By investing in telematics devices and systems, fleets can benefit from the many advantages geo tracking offers them in a highly competitive industry.