A Deep Dive into GPS Tracking Systems for Fleet Management

Technology has become the cornerstone of every successful modern business. In this increasingly connected world, understanding what technology is available to you and how it can benefit your business is vital.

For fleet managers that means GPS tracking, which allows you to monitor all your vehicles in real-time and acquire data, even as they’re on the road, that can help your business operate more efficiently and profitably.

Numerous companies are operating in this space in Australia, from big-name telecommunication brands to specialist organisations, so there’s no shortage of choice. While there are variations between what each company offers, all present the same core benefits, such as enhanced efficiency, improved safety and improved data insights.

GPS tracking allows you to check in at any time to understand where your vehicles are and, vitally, how they are being operated. Many companies offer ‘real-time’ tracking, which is updated every minute (or less) anywhere in the country. Some also offer activity logs that allow you to see how each vehicle has been operated by its driver, often in granular detail.

Finding the right GPS tracking product for your fleet is important, so make sure you do your research and check out all available options. Choosing the correct product can help control labour and maintenance costs and reduce fuel wastage from idling. Here are the key elements you should consider before purchasing.

Safety

Obviously, safety is the top priority for any fleet operator and there are several ways GPS tracking can help. You’re able to keep track of the speed of any vehicle, so you can check if your drivers are speeding and increasing risks on the road.

Some systems can even provide you with a driver rating, allowing you to keep track of any problematic drivers and avoid potentially costly mistakes – like accidents or driving penalties – which could end up costing you (as the fleet manager) money, impacting your bottom line and potentially damaging your company’s reputation.

From a safety perspective, you can also keep track of how many stops your drivers make, and for how long, to ensure they are adhering to any company guidelines and ensuring drivers are getting suitable rest.

Efficiency

Thanks to the latest tracking technology, which can record several key parameters of the vehicle and how it’s used, you can also improve your efficiency. By knowing where the vehicles are you can ensure your drivers are not making unnecessary stops or driving incorrect routes that could cost you time and money.

There’s even technology that allows you to monitor how long vehicles are left idling, potentially wasting money as you burn more fuel.

This is also something that your Shell Card can help you with. The award-winning, fleet-friendly card allows you to track fuel use from anyone issued with a Shell Card.

Data

Another key advantage of using GPS vehicle tracking is the data it provides, which allows a deeper and clearer understanding of exactly how your fleet is operating. Many products allow you to track and save travel times, distance covered, performance logs and, of course, speed and stops. This knowledge allows you to plan better and maximise the effectiveness of your fleet and drivers.

^Disclaimer

^{Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd (“Viva Energy”) has compiled the above article for your general information and to use as a general reference. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken by Viva Energy in compiling this article, Viva Energy does not warrant or represent that the information in the article is free from errors or omissions or is suitable for your intended use.}