Understanding the Summer Surge

Summer is known for increased construction activity. Favorable weather conditions allow for extensive outdoor work, leading to a spike in equipment rentals. For rental companies, this means a higher turnover of machinery, tighter schedules, and the need for meticulous management of their fleet. Without a solid system in place, this seasonal surge can lead to inefficiencies, higher costs, and missed opportunities. 

Don’t make the mistake of not preparing and being overwhelmed with projects, not meeting demands for customers, and overbooking. Companies need to be aware that not navigating through the seasonal surge can and will lead to potential pitfalls, customer dissatisfaction, poor resource allocation, equipment shortages are just a few of the results it can lead to.

How GPS Telematics Can Help

1. Optimizing Fleet Utilization

GPS telematics systems provide real-time data on equipment location and usage. This means knowing exactly where each piece of equipment is, how long it has been in use, and where it is needed next. This level of visibility helps in minimizing downtime and maximizing revenue during peak seasons. Ensuring that each piece of equipment is actively contributing to revenue generation and is not left idle for extended periods. 

2. Streamlining Maintenance Schedules

The increased usage of equipment during the summer months can lead to wear and tear. We’ve seen this all too often, however, GPS telematics can monitor the health and performance of machinery, providing alerts for necessary maintenance. Proactive maintenance scheduling ensures that equipment is always in top condition, this way you don’t have to rely on a pen and paper to record everything.

3. Efficient Resource Allocation

With GPS telematics, rental companies can track the availability of their equipment in real-time. Why is this important? This allows for more efficient allocation of resources. For instance, if a piece of equipment is underutilized in one location, it can be quickly redeployed to another site where it is needed. This flexibility is crucial during high-demand periods, ensuring that all projects have the necessary tools to proceed without delays, this will definitely keep your projects running smoothly and ensuring there is little to no downtime.

Understanding how to effectively prepare for the summer can prevent future challenges that you can face such as:

• Operational Inefficiencies

• Scheduling Issues

• Higher Operational Costs

• Reduced Profitability

• Equipment Breaking Down

• Customer Dissatisfaction

Preparation for the summer surge in the heavy equipment and rental industry is crucial for meeting increased demand efficiently and effectively. You don’t want to be in the position of going back and forth with customers about location of equipment, wear and tear, and delayed scheduling. For the customers it should be an easy and smooth process. Less stress for them means more business for you. Prioritizing the utilization of GPS telematics for equipment can really make a difference. You’ll be thanking yourself once the summer begins.

Why Accessing Heavy Equipment on One Platform Matters

Having the ability to manage heavy equipment and mobile assets from a unified platform offers numerous advantages. Without this advantage, it can be extremely easy for you to lose maintenance history, miscalculate numbers, always calling to find equipment on and off the job site. Rovitracker makes it simple for you as the user to manage, customize and see where all of your assets are. However, this does mean your equipment must have a GPS device equipped on it, without this, there is no way to track or see your equipment.

Benefits of Accessing Heavy Equipment on One Platform

2. Centralized Asset Management: Accessing heavy equipment and mobile assets on one platform allows companies to streamline asset management processes, making it easier to track equipment usage, monitor maintenance schedules, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
3. Improved Efficiency: By centralizing access to asset data, GPS telematics enables companies to optimize equipment utilization, being on time at the job site, locating forgotten equipment, and reporting maintenance history.
4. Enhanced Visibility: Real-time tracking capabilities provide companies with greater visibility into the location and status of their assets, now you can easily log in to the website or on your phone and now you can see your asset in real-time, keeping it simple.
5. Proactive Maintenance: With access to maintenance schedules and equipment health data, companies can implement proactive maintenance strategies, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns, extending equipment lifespan, and minimizing repair costs. A lot of  companies don’t utilize this to its fullest. Getting lazy and letting your equipment deteriorate on and off the job site, nobody wants a badly operating piece of equipment.
6. Optimized Resource Allocation: A unified platform allows companies to optimize resource allocation by identifying underutilized assets, reallocating equipment as needed, and reducing unnecessary expenditures on rentals or purchases.
7. Streamlined Reporting: Centralized platforms simplify reporting processes by consolidating data from multiple sources, enabling companies to generate comprehensive reports quickly and accurately. You don’t have to rely on waiting for phone calls or waiting for someone to hand you papers that may or may not be lost the next day. 

Downsides of Not Having Access to all Heavy Equipment on One Platform

6. Limited Visibility: Without centralized access, there is a lack of real-time visibility into the location and status of equipment, making it difficult to track asset usage and monitor performance.
7. Inefficient Resource Allocation: Inability to see all equipment in one place may lead to inefficient resource allocation, as companies may struggle to identify underutilized assets or determine optimal deployment strategies.
8. Difficulty in Maintenance Management: Managing maintenance schedules becomes challenging when information is scattered across multiple platforms or manual records, increasing the risk of missed maintenance tasks or delays in servicing equipment.
9. Increased Downtime: Without a centralized platform, companies may experience increased downtime due to delays in identifying equipment issues or locating specific assets, impacting project timelines and productivity.
10. Security Risks: Lack of centralized access raises security concerns, as companies may struggle to monitor unauthorized equipment use or mitigate the risk of theft or loss without real-time tracking capabilities.
11. Compliance Challenges: Without centralized access to equipment documentation and compliance records, companies may face challenges in maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring adherence to safety standards and industry regulations.

Accessing heavy equipment on one platform is essential for rental companies and construction firms to streamline operations. By consolidating asset data, maintenance schedules, and performance metrics into a centralized system, the benefits of centralized access extend beyond internal operations to include improved communication, enhanced customer service, and better resource allocation. Having a unified platform for heavy equipment management is not just advantageous—it’s a strategic imperative for achieving long-term success and sustainability.

The Challenge of Equipment Theft

Heavy equipment theft is a prevalent issue in the industry, costing businesses millions of dollars annually. The sheer size and mobility of these machines make them attractive targets for thieves. Construction sites, remote locations, and storage yards are particularly vulnerable areas where valuable assets can be easily taken without immediate detection.

Enter GPS tracking systems – a powerful solution that offers real-time monitoring and precise location data. By installing GPS devices on each piece of equipment, companies gain the ability to track their assets 24/7, significantly reducing the risk of theft. In the unfortunate event of theft, GPS tracking provides law enforcement with the necessary information to recover stolen equipment promptly. With real-time location monitoring, you can keep tabs on the exact location of your equipment at any time. 

Operational Efficiency through GPS

Beyond theft prevention, GPS tracking systems play a pivotal role in optimizing fleet management and overall operational efficiency. Here’s how:

• Location Tracking for Improved Logistics

Gps technology enables businesses to monitor the location of each piece of equipment in real-time. This information is invaluable for planning and optimizing logistics, ensuring that equipment is deployed efficiently and reducing downtime. Managers can make informed decisions about equipment allocation, route planning, and resource optimization, leading to streamlined operations and increased productivity.

• Maintenance Planning and Optimization

GPS systems provide more than just location data. They can also be integrated with equipment health monitoring systems, allowing companies to schedule preventive maintenance based on actual usage rather than arbitrary timelines. This proactive approach helps extend the lifespan of equipment, reduces unexpected breakdowns, and minimizes maintenance costs.

• Fuel Efficiency and Cost Savings

With the ability to track fuel consumption and monitor driver behavior, GPS systems contribute to improved fuel efficiency. Companies can identify inefficient routes, unauthorized vehicle use, and excessive idling, leading to significant cost savings over time. Additionally, the data collected can be used to implement training programs for operators, further optimizing fuel efficiency.

• Compliance and Reporting

In the heavily regulated heavy equipment industry, compliance with safety and environmental standards is paramount. GPS tracking systems can generate detailed reports on equipment usage, driver behavior, and adherence to safety guidelines. This data not only ensures compliance with industry regulations but also provides insights for continuous improvement in safety protocols.

Customer Service and Billing Accuracy

Accurate billing based on usage is a big hitter for the rental industry, you want to know the exact hours of engine run time, and any that goes over. You can utilize GPS data to accurately bill customers based on the actual usage of equipment, avoiding disputes and ensuring fair billing practices.

Improved Customer Communication

Providing customers with real time information on the location and availability of equipment goes a long way. No more making 100 calls to different people to try and find where your equipment was last located.

Are There Risks to Not Implementing GPS Systems?

Here are just a few of the risks of not having any type of GPS systems for your equipment. Be cautious of who is handling your equipment, have a plan A and a plan B if you are still not using any GPS systems.

• Opportunities for theft
• Unoptimized routes
• Unscheduled breakdowns
• Reduced equipment lifespan
• Difficulty in regulatory compliance
• Inaccurate usage billing

The role of GPS tracking systems in the heavy equipment rental industry is multifaceted. It goes beyond the prevention of theft and extends outwards to operational excellence, cost efficiency, and customer satisfaction. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing technological advancements like GPS tracking systems is no longer an option but a necessity. By investing in GPS technology for your needs, your business can stay ahead of the curve.

What is a GPS Jammer?

A GPS jammer, also known as a GPS blocker or signal disruptor, is an electronic device designed to interfere with the signals transmitted by Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites. These signals are crucial for a wide range of applications, including navigation, tracking, and timing synchronization.

What Do They Look Like?

Most GPS jammers are designed to be easily carried or concealed, often having minimal external features to make them look inconspicuous. Most of these GPS jammers have one or more small antennas, which are used to emit interfering signals. Small and portable is the name of the game, using this mobile device, it can go anywhere without being seen. With these devices being battery powered or connected to the vehicle’s power supply, this can be a huge problem to renters and job sites with isolated equipment. If you do not have a secondary device that they did not interfere with you are in luck. Most equipment don’t have a secondary device to help prevent theft resulting in a loss of their equipment and increased downtime in search of this missing equipment.

How Do They Work?

GPS jammers operate by emitting radio frequency (RF) signals on the same frequencies used by GPS satellites. This interference disrupts the ability of GPS devices to receive accurate signals, causing them to lose or provide inaccurate location data. Essentially, a GPS jammer creates a “no-signal zone” in its vicinity, rendering GPS-based systems ineffective.

Who Uses GPS Jammers?

GPS jammers are used by various individuals and organizations for a variety of purposes, this can cause fleet management manipulation, disabling remote tracking, and most times resulting in theft.

• Privacy Advocates: Individuals concerned about their location privacy may employ GPS jammers to prevent their movements from being tracked.
• Fleet Managers: In some cases, fleet managers may use GPS jammers to avoid monitoring their drivers’ activities or to manipulate data for dishonest purposes.
• Anti-Theft Measures: Some vehicle owners use GPS jammers to prevent vehicle theft by disrupting the tracking signals that law enforcement and recovery services rely on.
• Criminals: Unfortunately, criminals may use GPS jammers to evade law enforcement surveillance or tracking systems, making it harder to apprehend stolen assets. This can heavily impact your business.

Effectiveness of GPS Jammers

The effectiveness of GPS jammers depends on several factors, including the device’s power and frequency range, as well as its proximity to the target. High-power jammers with a broad frequency range can disrupt signals over a larger area, while low-power jammers may only affect devices in close proximity. Despite their effectiveness, the use of GPS jammers is illegal in many jurisdictions due to the potential dangers they pose. This does not mean a criminal can’t use it, always double check entry points, equipment keys, who has access to fleet management systems to ensure your job site or rental equipment is secure.

Devices Less Susceptible or Resistant toGPS Jammers:

• NovAtel OEM7 Series: NovAtel is a renowned provider of high-precision GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) technology. The OEM7 Series offers advanced multi-constellation, multi-frequency tracking and features anti-jamming capabilities to ensure reliable positioning in challenging environments.
• u-blox F9 Series: u-blox is a provider of positioning and wireless communication technologies. The F9 series, including modules like the ZED-F9P, offers multi-constellation support and advanced interference mitigation features, making them suitable for high-precision applications.

• Assisted-GPS (A-GPS) Devices: A-GPS devices, often used in cellular networks, can retrieve GPS information from multiple sources, making them less susceptible to jamming.
• Differential GPS (DGPS) Systems: DGPS systems use ground-based reference stations to improve accuracy. They are less susceptible to jamming because they rely on localized correction data.

Other Devices That May Not Employ Anti-Jamming Technologies:

• Basic OEM Gps Systems: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) GPS systems that come pre-installed with some heavy equipment may be basic in functionality and may not incorporate sophisticated anti-jamming features.
• Entry-Level Aftermarket GPS Solutions: Some aftermarket GPS solutions designed for heavy equipment, often at lower price points, might provide basic tracking and location services without advanced anti-jamming capabilities.
• Standard Fleet Management Systems: fStandard fleet management systems used for basic tracking and monitoring of heavy equipment may not emphasize advanced anti-jamming technologies, focusing on affordability and simplicity. 
• Basic Telematics Solutions: Telematics solutions integrated into heavy equipment for basic data collection, such as location and operational status, may lack sophisticated anti-jamming features. Don’t sell yourself short to get basic and simple, it might affect you in the long run.

With theft being the most common event in the heavy equipment rental industry, it’s obvious as to why criminals would use such devices to steal valuable equipment. Selling your equipment for parts, renting it out as their own, and even selling at events multiple states away. GPS jammers have various users and applications, this can affect fleet management and remote monitoring. Making it difficult for you to keep things running smoothly. Be aware of who has access to fleet management, double check entry points, in order to ensure only authorized users are allowed to access the job site. GPS jammers can be very effective if used in the right way, luckily advanced GPS systems and technologies have been designed to resist these interference attempts, ensuring the integrity of essential GPS-dependent services and applications.

The average costs of heavy equipment can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of equipment, its age, brand, model, size, and additional features or attachments. With heavy equipment costing anywhere from $10,000 to $400,000 plus depending on what equipment you have, with even one of these assets stolen and not recovered, it will hurt your business.

Compact Construction Equipment

Compact construction equipment, including skid-steer loaders, mini-excavators, and compact wheel loaders, is highly sought after by thieves. These machines are prized for several reasons:

• Portability: Their relatively compact size makes them easy to transport and maneuver, providing criminals with the ability to move and sell them quickly.

• Versatility: Compact equipment is incredibly versatile, with applications in construction, landscaping, agriculture, and more. This versatility ensures a steady demand on the black market.
• Resale Value: Stolen compact equipment can fetch a substantial profit due to their high market worth and the enduring demand for such machinery.

Heavy Construction Equipment

Encompassing larger and more imposing machinery like backhoes, excavators, bulldozers, and wheel loaders, stands as another prime target for theft. Its appeal to criminals rests upon several compelling factors:

• High Intrinsic Value: Heavy equipment assets have substantial price tags, making them attractive for thieves looking for a significant return on their criminal endeavors.

• Ease of Use: Many of these machines are relatively easy to operate, which means thieves with limited experience can quickly put them to use.

• Multiple Applications: The versatile nature of heavy construction equipment positions them for employment across various industries, from construction to excavation and roadwork, rendering them highly desirable targets.

Trailers and Trucks

In addition to the heavy equipment itself, trailers and trucks used for transporting machinery are common targets for theft. Thieves are drawn to these assets for several reasons:

• Transport Efficiency: Trailers and trucks provide an efficient means of moving stolen equipment. Criminals can readily hitch a trailer or load heavy machinery onto a truck, facilitating a swift and inconspicuous getaway.

• Multiple Uses: Stolen trailers and trucks find application in various pursuits, including the transportation of other pilfered equipment, goods, or even illicit contraband.
• Resale Value: These assets retain their value, making them appealing to thieves who may choose to resell them.

To mitigate the ever-present risk of theft, heavy equipment owners and rental companies are well-advised to implement stringent security measures. This encompasses investments in cutting-edge GPS tracking systems, advanced surveillance technology, secure storage facilities, and access control protocols. Moreover, education surrounding security protocols and the implementation of thorough background checks for potential renters can serve as powerful deterrents against theft.

In the unfortunate event of equipment theft, immediate reporting to local law enforcement and the utilization of online databases can substantially enhance the prospects of asset recovery. By vigilantly adhering to these precautions, we can collectively fortify our defenses and safeguard these valuable assets from falling into the wrong hands.

Why Holidays Are Prime Targets for Theft?

Reduced Activity and Presence: With the job sites being isolated due to holidays, there is less security and less monitoring on your assets. With employee activity being low, this means that thieves are most likely able to break in without being noticed. 

Diminished On-Site Security: When it comes around to holidays, nobody wants to be monitoring the job site, or making sure everything is running smoothly. With employees absent, and monitoring systems, this is their chance to be in and out of the site with expensive equipment in the palm of their hands. 

Less Immediate Responses: Given that most people will be out celebrating or taking time off, the response time for reporting and addressing thefts may be longer, giving thieves a better chance to escape undetected.

Theft rates can vary by location and can change over time. Generally, holidays when construction and industrial sites are less active or when there are fewer people around may be more appealing to thieves looking to steal heavy equipment and rental machinery. Making your job site a primary target for theft.

That said, some holidays and long weekends that might be associated with higher theft rates of heavy equipment and rental machinery could include Christmas, Halloween, Fourth of July, New Years, Thanksgiving. Theft activity will be high on these major holidays as these holidays provide thieves with extra time to commit to their plans. Businesses and rental companies should take extra precautions during these holidays to secure their heavy equipment and rental machinery, such as installing security systems, using tracking devices, and ensuring proper fencing and access controls. With fewer people around and monitoring systems absent, thieves are well aware of this fact, making it an opportunity to strike.

How Do I Avoid Being Targeted for Theft?

GPS Tracking: Equip your heavy equipment and rental assets with GPS tracking devices. These devices provide real-time data, allowing you to monitor the whereabouts of your machinery at all times. They can help prevent theft and if stolen, reduce downtime to track it down.

Background Check for Renters: Before renting equipment to individuals or businesses, perform thorough background checks to verify their identity and legitimacy. Require valid identification and contact information.

Remote Monitoring Systems: With remote monitoring, an installed GPS device can alert you when something unusual is happening with your equipment. Being able to access your assets remotely while celebrating holidays or taking time off is efficient in preventing thieves from being able to get away with stealing your equipment.

Access Control: Strengthen access control by implementing secure gates, fencing, and locked entry points. Only authorized personnel should have access to the site. Along with setting up a Geofence to alert you when your equipment has left the designated zone, alerting you right away.

Securing Your Job Site During The Holiday Season.

As the holiday season draws near, it’s never too early to begin implementing measures to safeguard your job site and protect your valuable assets. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the advantages of utilizing GPS tracking and remote monitoring systems to enhance your security. These tools provide a crucial edge in defending against potential theft incidents. In the unfortunate event that your equipment is stolen, they enable you to remotely track and recover your assets swiftly, reducing downtime and expediting the involvement of law enforcement.

Understanding the Motives Behind Equipment Theft: To effectively combat equipment theft, it’s vital to grasp the motives that drive criminals. While most thieves pilfer heavy equipment for personal use or to disassemble and sell its parts, other factors come into play depending on the time of year and specific circumstances.

Opportunities at Trade Shows and Industry Events: While not technically holidays, industry-specific trade shows and events present excellent opportunities for showcasing and selling heavy equipment. Attendees at such gatherings often express a keen interest in equipment acquisitions, making these occasions strategic for sellers.

Capitalizing on Local Seasons: Consider the construction and farming seasons in your locality. Timing your heavy equipment sales to align with the commencement of active seasons in these industries can prove advantageous, as businesses prepare for increased operations.

Fiscal Year-End Urgency: Many businesses and government agencies adhere to fiscal years that conclude in either June or December. This timeline fosters a sense of urgency, as organizations seek to allocate their budgets and make equipment acquisitions before the fiscal year’s end.

End-of-Year Sales and Promotions: The holiday season, particularly in December, is renowned for end-of-year sales and special promotions. Sellers and equipment dealers may offer attractive deals and discounts during this time, making it an opportune period for prospective buyers.

Promote Staff Vigilance: Foster a culture of security awareness among your team during the holiday season. Emphasize the importance of maintaining a secure job site, ensuring equipment is operational, and safeguarding access points and keys from unauthorized access.

Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed, regardless of your location, by staying connected to your job site’s security systems. Remain in the know to address potential threats promptly.

By proactively addressing security concerns and arming yourself with the right technology, you can enjoy peace of mind during the holidays, knowing that your job site and assets are well-protected. In doing so, you can focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with loved ones while ensuring your business remains secure.

Criminal Techniques: How Thieves Target Heavy Equipment and Mobile Assets

Unauthorized Use:

• Criminals often exploit weak security protocols or impersonate authorized personnel to gain access to heavy equipment or assets. They can make off with your valuable machinery unnoticed.

Tampering and Vandalism: 

•  Thieves resort to tampering with equipment, disabling alarms or GPS systems, and, at times, subject assets to vandalism to hinder their functionality. Inadequate security alerts can leave you vulnerable; it may be time to consider a more robust GPS tracking solution.

Transportation Theft: 

• Criminals steal trailers, trucks, or containers along with the valuable cargo they carry. Always double check what you leave out before leaving your equipment. These thefts can result in substantial financial losses.

Chop Shops: 

•  Thieves may opt to dismantle stolen equipment and sell its components separately. This not only makes recovery challenging but also diminishes the asset’s overall value. This is difficult because if you manage to get some of it back, most likely other valuable parts will not be there.

Identity Theft: 

• Criminals might use stolen identity documents to rent or lease equipment, leaving you to deal with the consequences. Always be sure of who it is you’re contacting, and use GPS systems to remotely track activity.

Prevention with GPS Tracking Devices and Remote Asset Tracking

Now, let’s talk about how GPS tracking devices and remote asset tracking can be effective tools for preventing these criminal techniques:

Real-Time Location Tracking: 

• GPS tracking devices provide real-time location data, allowing you to monitor the whereabouts of your assets at all times. This feature proves invaluable for detecting unauthorized use and swiftly responding to potential theft.

Geofencing: 

• Establish geofences or virtual boundaries around your assets or job sites. The moment your equipment enters or exits these defined zones without authorization, instant alerts are dispatched. Geofencing represents a robust deterrent against unauthorized movements.

GPS System Alerts: 

• GPS tracking devices, when properly installed, can trigger alerts at the slightest sign of asset movement without permission. These alerts are instrumental in facilitating rapid responses and conflict resolution.

Remote Shutdown: 

• Certain GPS tracking systems offer the capability to remotely immobilize equipment in the event of theft or unauthorized usage. This functionality can prove decisive in immobilizing the asset until recovery.

Historical Data: 

• Access to historical tracking data allows you to review past movements and identify any unusual patterns, which can be valuable for theft detection.

Maintenance Alerts:

• Many GPS tracking systems feature maintenance alerts, ensuring your equipment remains well-maintained and minimizing downtime. Well-maintained assets are inherently less attractive to thieves.

Asset Recovery:

• In the unfortunate event of theft, GPS tracking devices significantly increase the chances of recovery by providing law enforcement with precise location information.

Additional Security Measures:

While GPS tracking is a powerful deterrent, it’s important to complement it with other security measures:

Secure Storage: Store equipment in well-lit, fenced and locked areas when not in use

Employee Training: Train employees to follow security protocols, use identification badges, and report suspicious activity.

Security Cameras: Install security cameras at strategic locations to deter thieves and provide evidence in case of theft.

Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits of your assets and equipment to ensure everything is accounted for.

Criminals continuously evolve their techniques to pilfer heavy equipment and mobile assets. Nevertheless, with the implementation of GPS tracking devices and remote asset tracking, you can adopt proactive measures to safeguard your investments. These tools offer real-time monitoring, geofencing, motion sensors, and other features that not only deter theft but also facilitate asset recovery. By incorporating these technologies and complementing them with additional security measures, you can fortify your asset protection strategies and diminish the risk of theft significantly.

Things you should look out for when purchasing or installing a GPS tracking device:

1. Form Factor: The physical design and size of a GPS tracker come in all shapes and sizes, making it suitable for different applications.
2. Internal battery: An internal battery ensures that the GPS tracking device can continue to operate when it’s disconnected from the primary power source by anyone. Internal batteries can also store location data when the device is disconnected from power. This data can be retrieved and uploaded once the device is reconnected. 
3. Accuracy of Device: Some GPS trackers offer high precision, depending on the device you might get more approximate locations. The level of accuracy can vary.
4. Wired vs self-powered: Wired trackers are usually connected to a power source such as the vehicle’s battery. With wired devices, they can provide continuous tracking as long as the vehicle or asset is in operation. Self powered devices have their own internal batteries, which means they can be used without a direct powersource. More portable than wired and battery life limits the tracking duration. 
5. Battery Life: GPS trackers can have different battery lifes, this is crucial for asset tracking. Long lasting batteries are important for all assets in the industry whether that’s having it sit on a jobsite, or on the move to multiple areas
6. Environmental Resistance: Having a GPS tracker that is weather resistant allows you to have it in any job site, reducing the risk of having to buy another due to harsh environments. Especially in the heavy equipment industry, regardless if the device is hidden or not. 
7. Cost: GPS tracking devices are going to come with a cost, however. With the data you can pull with specific devices, It’s well worth the cost. Being able to tell fuel level, battery voltage, engine run time and many other specific data could prevent you from spending more in the future on your assets.

With Form Factor being the first item on our list. It’s vital to understand that not all GPS tracking devices are the same size, nor will they have the same properties. Concealment is key, a device suitable for covert or discreet racking applications. In some cases, the size of a GPS tracker may impact how and where it can be installed. Smaller devices are often easier to attach discreetly to vehicles and assets. Keep this in mind when you are thinking of installing a device on one of your mobile assets.

Accuracy of a GPS tracking device is important, pinpointing the exact location of your asset is crucial in various scenarios. Whether it’s tracking in the recovery of stolen assets or vehicles, or making sure that your assets are on the job site. For a business with valuable assets, accurate tracking ensures that assets are used efficiently and are where they should be. This can help prevent loss or theft and streamline asset management processes. Real-time data is the result of a device’s accuracy, this means you can track where your asset is going and the status as it occurs. Making it essential for tracking valuable assets, ensuring safety, and making informed decisions.

Perhaps the most obvious benefit is the ability to track an asset for an extended period without the need for frequent recharging or battery replacement. This is especially valuable for tracking applications where continuous monitoring over days or even weeks is required. A tracking device with a long battery life is more portable since it doesn’t rely on a constant power source. With its own battery life, this device can remain hidden and active for an extended period of time without drawing attention to itself, acting as surveillance or an anti-theft protocol. Having a GPS tracking device with its own battery life can be essential if a potential thief cuts the main power source of an asset. Making it more reliable when tracking down someone who has stolen your asset.

Cost is a primary concern for most individuals and businesses. It’s important to find a GPS tracking device that fits within your budget while still meeting your tracking needs. Consider not just the initial purchase price but also the total cost of ownership over the life of the device. This includes ongoing expenses such as data plan subscriptions, maintenance, and any required accessories. However, with that being said, purchasing these devices can save you time and money, whether that’s scheduling for maintenance on an asset, or preventing a $30,000 dollar piece of equipment from being stolen resulting in a major financial loss. Keep in mind that inexpensive GPS tracking devices may come with a lower build quality and reliability. The cost of a device often correlates with its features and capabilities. 

When planning to install multiple tracking devices, the cost can add up quickly, however considering the compatibility and integration capabilities of higher quality devices, they most likely can integrate your existing systems or software, this will prevent you from running into situations where the device is not showing accurate data, upgrading to newer devices, or purchase newly updated ones. With high quality devices, this can set you apart from your competitors.

BLE trackers are pretty new in the industry, along with Apple’s new air tags. Companies are putting these tags on everything. This is great if you want small, easy to install BLE trackers. The downside is when there are no Apple iphones near these tags, they will not show you any data. With these tags they are also not accurate, and not efficient for locating any of your tools or assets. The accuracy is not reliable when it comes down to it, again, inexpensive trackers result in numerous identifiable problems.

GPS tracking devices are not anything uncommon, especially to the rental and heavy equipment industry side of things. With these many variables to look at, this can help you further your decision on what GPS tracking device is the right fit. Choosing what can help your operation be more efficient, tracking fleets, collecting remote data, preventing equipment theft. Ultimately it’s up to you and your business whether you want a GPS tracking solution or not. However it’s never too late to stay ahead of the game, not having the right fit of GPS systems or tracking devices could be making your business suffer in increased downtime, increased cost of maintenance and increased risk of theft.