So you’re probably already using GPS technology to check traffic on your daily route, find places on a map, or get directions for the shortest way to your destination. But did you know that it can also be used to protect your assets?

A GPS tracker lets you virtually keep an eye on valuable items. Whether it’s a single vehicle or an entire fleet, it makes it easier for you to locate and track high-value objects in real time. A few other examples of items you can track are cargoes, equipment, trailers, auction items, recreational vehicles and even employees.

Every activity related to a tracked asset will be recorded. So when a driver is using your fleet vehicle for an unauthorised activity or when a highly valuable company property is not where it’s supposed to be, you can take immediate action.

Who can use it?

Obviously, transportation companies can primarily benefit from using GPS tracking for asset protection. For instance, they can use the technology to figure out how and where they should deploy their vehicles as well as to monitor their fleet’s whereabouts in case of theft or accidents. The Anonymous GPS tracker, in particular, serves as a fleet management tool that provides managers an easy way to track fleet activity. The real-time visibility of a driver’s location and current tasks makes it easier for managers to assign jobs to the nearest available drivers. It maximises productivity by minimising downtime and making the most of resources.

The same goes for freight and distribution companies. Being able to track goods during transport provides assurance not just for the company but for their customers as well. Companies are able to estimate arrival dates and delays, while customers appreciate the fact that they are able to track the current location of their orders. It also allows for faster response in the event of theft or mishandling.

In high-security business environments, GPS tracking is also a cost-effective solution for reducing security risks. When used in tracking employees, a GPS tracker provides data on workers’ productivity and attendance. In some situations, the ability to track assets in transit may also protect your company from potentially dangerous conflicts where public safety is involved.

GPS tracking methods

There are a number of ways you can track your assets using GPS technology depending on what you are tracking.

• Smartphone. Today’s mobile devices are equipped with GPS capability so you can track your phone. The results are pretty much accurate, but there’s a discrepancy of a few meters to the actual location. Obviously this is limited only to your device, and leaves you without a device should you need to track it down.
• Tracker apps. There are third-party apps that you can download on your device which you can use to track people or vehicles. However, the person you are tracking must carry the mobile device at all times. Of course there are wearable trackers for this purpose. But the success of this method lies on the willingness of the ‘trackee’ to be on the radar 24/7. As for vehicles, turning your smartphone into a GPS device can be a low-cost solution for a delivery truck or for mobile assets. However, there is a possibility of the device being stolen or removed by someone.
• GPS trackers. These nondescript devices are designed to be tucked away discreetly which makes them the best option for security-related reasons. They usually come with a dedicated software which you can set up on your mobile phone and desktop, that lets you check your assets’ real-time status at any time of day. For a small monthly service fee, you can have peace of mind knowing your assets are right where you want them to be.

Here are some of the useful features of a GPS tracker:

The tracker fetches signals from satellites to locate an object on the map. You will see the exact location of all your assets in real time. If an asset is being transported or on the move, you will receive a text notification right away. Your tracker may also send information at predefined schedules or intervals, which could include location, direction and speed.

To ensure asset delivery is secure and on time, you may even set geofences or virtual boundaries around your predefined route. So if the driver goes off the prescribed course, you will immediately be notified and you can contact the driver right away.

If something goes missing, you can mark your asset as stolen. And if you wish, you can choose to notify law enforcers.

You can use multiple trackers for a large number of assets and conveniently monitor them in one single platform. If you are looking for a smarter and more efficient way to manage your assets, this is definitely it.

Sometimes it also happens when a family member takes your car or your farm truck without your knowledge. So when you find an empty garage, you’d know where to find it simply by logging in to the app.

It’s a small investment but certainly a worthy one.