Fleet GPS trackers allow managers to monitor vehicle locations and other relevant data to identify efficiency gaps, streamline operations, and increase productivity. Tracking devices, also known as automatic vehicle locators, capture real-time data using telematics technology, including GPS coordinates and information like speed, fuel level, idling time, battery charging, etc.
This technology increases vehicle and driver security while exposing areas of opportunity that can be tackled to increase overall profitability. Most tracking systems offer multiple benefits for carriers, which can be maximized by choosing the one that best fulfills your business’s needs. In this article, we will go over the crucial factors when selecting a fleet GPS tracker and the benefits offered by HOS247.
Do you have any questions? Talk to ELD Advisor: 650-405-3372 or Request Callback
Choosing a Fleet GPS Tracker
Fleet tracking technology implementation can mean significant savings in operating costs and better asset management. However, when looking for a fleet GPS tracker, carriers must be aware of certain factors that will determine if a particular system is right for them. Here are some must-check factors that can guide you in picking the right fleet tracker solution.
- Ease of installation. Complex hardware leads to extra downtime and can burden a carrier company with additional installation charges. A provider that offers compatible devices that can be installed in minutes without expert intervention is a smart choice, as it saves time and effort.
- Compatibility. Some fleets might contain trailers as well as light or medium-duty vehicles. Carriers must look for a fleet tracker device compatible with all vehicles to avoid the additional cost of having to purchase a different GPS for each vehicle category.
- Usability. The success of any technology lies in its user-friendly features. Tracking software must be user-friendly so the fleet manager and even drivers can use it seamlessly without training. Fleet tracking solutions come with an online panel to simplify fleet management.
- Real-time tracking. Some fleet trackers offer periodic instead of real-time updates on vehicle data and location to save battery. However, truckers are left with less precise information. Finding a tracker that provides real-time updates about the vehicle is crucial to ensure better fleet management with reduced dispatch time, higher vehicle security, less idling time, etc.
- Round-the-clock support. The provider should be easily available for assistance regarding the use of the device and the software. They should have a dedicated support team to help consumers make optimum use of the tracker for enhanced fleet management and vehicle safety.
- 4G compatibility. 4G technology is much faster than its predecessor. The newer technology also means that the system will be current for longer.
- Product trial. Truckers can ask for a trial to make sure the fleet tracker solution synchronizes well with all the vehicles and works accurately to provide real-time data as expected. Purchasing a fleet tracker without a trial can lead to bad investment if it doesn’t fulfill all fleet management needs and getting out of lengthy contracts can be expensive.
- ELD integration. If the vehicles in your fleet are used for interstate transportation, then investing in an ELD solution that integrates with a GPS tracker is a good idea. This way, truckers only have to work with one provider and only have to get used to one system. Choosing an ELD-integrated fleet tracker can be cheaper and more efficient.
Benefits of HOS247 Fleet GPS Trackers
HOS247 is a market leader in GPS tracking and ELD solutions. We offer a complete GPS fleet management system that is easily integrated with an electronic logbook and offers real-time data. HOS247 has already gained a long list of clients who are satisfied with the reliable service of our GPS fleet tracker solutions. Here are some of the advantages of HOS247 fleet trackers that are helping truckers and carrier companies thrive.
Simple and fast installation. HOS247’s tracking solution is a web-based software easily available on the internet for download. The tracking system can be installed in minutes by the fleet manager without any help from a technician.
Enhanced security. HOS247 offers devices that can be concealed to help the recovery of stolen or lost assets. The fleet tracker also sends alerts to fleet managers if the vehicle is driven in unauthorized locations or during off-duty hours.
Long-term savings. Apart from securing the vehicle from theft, the HOS247 tracker also increases the fleet’s profitability with real-time alerts on driver idling and routine fleet maintenance notifications. Reduced idling time saves fuel costs and also improves fleet productivity. Maintaining the fleet in top condition prevents sudden breakdowns and unplanned costly repairs.
4G supported. As the HOS247 fleet tracker device is designed to integrate with the 4G network, fleets using this device do not need to switch to another tracker when 3G becomes obsolete. This will save the additional cost of investing in a new device for years to come.
ELD integration. This feature is especially beneficial for interstate commercial vehicles that come under the radar of the elog mandate. As the HOS247 fleet tracker device easily integrates with our electronic logbook, a single system is sufficient to monitor the entire fleet and stay compliant.
Intuitive interface. HOS247’s tracker has a user-friendly fleet manager portal that allows complete visibility of the fleet. The fleet manager can check real-time updates on vehicles and drivers, and monitor driver behavior from the dashboard with just a few clicks.
Reliable hardware. The HOS247 fleet GPS tracker comes with hardware that can be easily installed by anyone, as it requires little to no technical knowledge. It can be hidden inside the truck to help prevent tampering and allow recovery after theft. All HOS247 devices are made using quality grade materials for longer durability, optimum performance, and less possibility of breakdown.
Additional features. HOS247 offers idling time monitoring, detecting fault codes, IFTA mileage calculations, and preventive maintenance notifications.
Flexibility in upgrading. As a trusted brand with years of experience providing fleet management solutions, HOS247 understands that fleet requirements change with time. To suffice the needs of all sizes of fleets, HOS247 offers complete flexibility in upgrading or downgrading their monthly plans.
Active customer support. HOS247 has a dedicated team of experts to offer support to our customers. Whether it is troubleshooting a problem or guidance on the optimum use of the fleet GPS tracker, the HOS247 support team is always ready to help. To reach a wider group of customers, we maintain a multilingual team that communicates in English, Spanish, Polish, and Russian. We also have a call-back policy to follow up with the client if the call drops.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Fleet GPS Tracking
Understanding the financial impact of fleet GPS tracking helps carriers make informed investment decisions. While the upfront costs might seem significant, the long-term savings and operational improvements typically deliver substantial returns.
Initial investment vs. long-term savings. Fleet GPS tracking systems require an initial hardware investment ranging from $100-$500 per vehicle, plus monthly service fees of $20-$50. However, most fleets recover these costs within 3-6 months through operational savings. A 20-truck fleet typically saves $30,000-$50,000 annually after implementation costs.
Fuel cost reduction. GPS tracking reduces fuel consumption by 10-15% on average through decreased idling and optimized routing. For a single truck consuming 20,000 gallons annually at $3.50 per gallon, a 12% reduction saves $8,400 per year. Fleet managers can identify excessive idling, unauthorized detours, and inefficient routes that waste fuel.
Insurance premium discounts. Many insurance companies offer 5-15% discounts for fleets using GPS tracking. The technology demonstrates proactive risk management through driver monitoring, theft recovery capabilities, and accident reconstruction data. A fleet paying $100,000 in annual premiums could save $5,000-$15,000 yearly.
Reduced overtime and labor costs. Accurate time tracking eliminates fraudulent overtime claims and improves dispatch efficiency. Automated arrival and departure logging saves 30 minutes of administrative time per driver daily. Better route planning reduces unnecessary overtime by ensuring drivers complete routes within regular hours.
Vehicle maintenance savings. Preventive maintenance alerts based on actual mileage and engine hours prevent costly breakdowns. Catching issues early reduces major repair costs by 20-30%. Extended vehicle lifespan through proper maintenance can save $5,000-$10,000 per truck over five years.
ROI timeline and calculations. Most fleets achieve positive ROI within 6-12 months. A typical calculation for a 10-truck fleet: Annual savings ($75,000) minus annual costs ($15,000) equals $60,000 net benefit. The initial investment of $5,000 is recovered in just one month of operation.
Functioning of a Fleet GPS Tracker
Understanding how a fleet tracker device works can also help truckers make optimum use of the solution. GPS stands for Global Positioning System, and the device uses technology to send real-time updates on the vehicle. After the GPS tracker is installed in the vehicle, it logs location and other vehicle diagnostic information like speed, idle timing, etc. This data is then transmitted using 4G/LTE cellular networks to the provider’s server. After being analyzed in the tracking system, the data is displayed in the fleet manager portal, which can be accessed through any computer, tablet, or smartphone.
About HOS247 Fleet GPS Trackers
A reliable provider of ELD and GPS devices, HOS247 addresses the needs of motor carriers with different-sized fleets. Our trackers provide real-time monitoring, collecting the GPS coordinates between 30 seconds and 2 minutes when the vehicle is being driven. Gathered separately from the driver data, the truck information is available even when the driving status or a driver changes. HOS247 offers two types of fleet tracker solutions: ELD-integrated and 24/7 monitoring hardwired devices.
The ELD-integrated tracker is a good option for fleets with large numbers of vehicles that travel interstate. Easily set up by plugging into a vehicle’s OBD2 port, the device can be uninstalled as quickly. So motor carriers can move the hardware between vehicles, saving money on purchasing a tracker for each truck. ELD integration helps ensure compliance with FMCSA regulations, preventing HOS violations.
The 24/7 monitoring hardwired tracker allows uninterrupted tracking of assets. It connects to the vehicle’s ignition and comes with a separate battery, which transmits location data even when the vehicle is off, and a sim card that provides an uninterrupted signal even in bad weather conditions and remote areas.
Operating a fleet comes with several challenges, and an important one among them is the loss of assets and hidden costs in excess idling. A GPS fleet tracker solution can simplify fleet operations by extending technological support to tackle these issues. Finding a reliable GPS solution provider can be difficult, with so many brands on the market. HOS247 has a proven track record of offering advanced fleet management solutions. Request a HOS247 fleet tracker trial to enjoy the advantages of technology-supported vehicle monitoring that will automatically boost fleet efficiency and productivity.
Overcoming Driver Resistance and Privacy Concerns
Successfully implementing fleet GPS tracking requires addressing driver concerns head-on. Transparency and communication are essential for gaining driver buy-in and creating a positive implementation experience.
Common driver objections and solutions. Drivers often worry about micromanagement and privacy invasion. Address these concerns by explaining that GPS tracking protects drivers from false accusations, validates their work hours, and enhances their safety. Focus on how the technology supports rather than monitors them.
Privacy protection features. HOS247 respects driver privacy with features like personal conveyance mode that stops tracking during off-duty hours. Data access is restricted to authorized personnel only. The system tracks vehicles, not personal devices, maintaining clear boundaries between work and personal time.
Communicating benefits to drivers. Emphasize driver-specific advantages: protection from liability in accidents, accurate pay for all hours worked, reduced paperwork, and enhanced personal safety through emergency assistance. Share how GPS data has exonerated drivers in accident investigations and disputes.
Training and onboarding strategies. Implement a phased rollout starting with willing participants. Provide hands-on training sessions demonstrating the user-friendly interface. Create simple reference guides and ensure ongoing support. Address questions promptly and thoroughly during the transition period.
Success stories from other fleets. Share real examples: drivers receiving safety bonuses based on GPS performance metrics, quick emergency response saving a driver after an accident, or GPS data proving a driver’s innocence in a customer complaint. These stories resonate more than statistics.
Building a positive safety culture. Frame GPS tracking as a safety tool rather than surveillance. Recognize and reward good driving behaviors identified through the system. Use data for coaching opportunities rather than punishment. Create friendly competitions for fuel efficiency or safe driving scores.
Future-Proofing Your Fleet Technology
Investing in fleet technology requires thinking beyond immediate needs. Choosing systems that adapt to evolving industry standards and emerging technologies protects your investment and positions your fleet for future success.
Why 4G matters. Major carriers are shutting down 3G networks, with complete sunset expected by 2025. Fleets still using 3G devices face service interruptions and forced equipment replacements. HOS247’s 4G-compatible devices ensure uninterrupted service for years to come, avoiding costly emergency upgrades.
Emerging technologies in fleet management. Video telematics, dash cameras, and driver-facing cameras are becoming standard. Advanced systems now offer lane departure warnings, collision alerts, and driver fatigue detection. Choose providers like HOS247 that continuously update their platforms to incorporate new capabilities.
Electric vehicle fleet considerations. As more fleets add electric vehicles, GPS systems must track new metrics like battery charge levels, charging station locations, and adjusted route planning for range limitations. Modern platforms are already building these capabilities to support the transition.
AI and predictive analytics. Artificial intelligence transforms raw GPS data into actionable insights. Predictive maintenance algorithms anticipate breakdowns before they occur. Machine learning identifies patterns in driver behavior, route efficiency, and fuel consumption that humans might miss.
Integration with other fleet technologies. Modern GPS systems must communicate with dispatch software, maintenance systems, fuel cards, and accounting platforms. Open API architecture allows seamless data flow between systems. HOS247’s platform integrates with major fleet management tools, creating a unified operational view.
Conclusion
Fleet GPS tracking has evolved from a luxury to a necessity for competitive trucking operations. The combination of real-time visibility, operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and cost savings makes GPS tracking an essential investment. From reducing fuel waste and insurance premiums to protecting drivers and assets, the benefits extend across every aspect of fleet management.
HOS247 stands out in the crowded GPS tracking market by offering reliable 4G technology, seamless ELD integration, and exceptional customer support. Our commitment to no-contract flexibility, multilingual assistance, and continuous platform improvements ensures your fleet stays ahead of industry changes. Whether you operate 5 trucks or 500, HOS247 scales to meet your needs while maintaining the simplicity that drivers appreciate.
Take advantage of HOS247’s two-week risk-free trial to experience these benefits firsthand. See how our fleet GPS tracking solution can transform your operations, reduce costs, and position your fleet for long-term success. Your fleet’s efficiency, safety, and profitability improvements begin with a single decision to embrace proven GPS tracking technology.
I’ve co-founded, built and managed several transportation-related businesses. Now, I’m a founder and CEO of HOS247 – an AI Transportation Platform for trucking companies, freight brokers and other logistics operations. We are transitioning old-style operations to technology-advanced logistics entities and help them to grow their businesses. ELDs (electronic logging devices), fleet tracking and management 2.0 combined with AI-powered dispatch tools.
Every minute counts when you’re on the road. In today’s trucking industry, rising costs and tighter delivery windows put extra pressure on your ability to maximize drive time. The ELD mandate changed how we track hours, but it also opened
GPS tracking for fleet trucks enables route optimization, fuel conservation, and better customer service. The efficiency of a GPS tracking device entirely depends on the provider. HOS247 stands out in reliability, features, and affordability compared to the top providers in
Commercial hours of service (HOS) regulations control how long you can drive, when you must take breaks, and how much rest time you need between shifts. These federal rules aren’t just bureaucratic red tape — they’re designed to prevent driver