Small fleets often face the same challenges as their bigger counterparts and require the same level of innovation. Thankfully, GPS trackers are now made to specifically address the challenges of small to mid-size fleets.
Let’s look at a few of the primary advantages that you can expect to gain by installing GPS trackers in your small to mid-size fleet:
1. Increased visibility
Have you ever wondered where a driver is? GPS trackers allow you to see where a vehicle is at any given moment. If someone on your team is some place they should not be or has simply encountered an unexpected delay, you will be altered. Another benefit of this technology: if you set up a monitoring perimeter around your lot — what’s commonly known as a geofence — you’ll be able to receive alerts any time a vehicle crosses the threshold (useful when a theft is in progress).
2. Improved customer service
With real-time location always at your fingertips, it’s easy to communicate ETAs to your customers. Telematics technology also lets savvy fleet owners share GPS location updates directly with customers.
3. Optimized routes
With GPS trackers helping to monitor your fleet, you can use route optimization tools to plan the most efficient routes. You can also further refine these routes after they’ve been completed. Service-oriented businesses — like plumbers and electricians and glass replacement specialists — can even use GPS tracking to figure out which driver is closest to the customer site, cutting down the company’s cost per mile.
4. Decreased fuel costs
According to 2017 research conducted by the American Transportation Research Institute, if a fleet idles for six hours per day and operates 300 days a year it would waste 1,800 gallons of fuel annually. When steps are taken to reduce idling — adjusting routes, for instance — you control or eliminate this expense.
5. Data to motivate safe driving
Many GPS trackers have built-in sensors that monitor acceleration and rotation, allowing fleet owners to see which vehicles are being driven safely — and which are not. Unsafe behaviors like speeding, taking sharp turns or braking suddenly are all actions that can be recorded and reviewed. This provides insights that can be used to safeguard equipment and insurance premiums.
GPS trackers — and fleet efficiency — have never been more within reach. The equipment is affordable, you don’t need expensive installation services and the monthly contract fee is low.
From the second you install these devices you start gaining a deeper understanding of how your fleet operates day-to-day and what steps you can take to fully optimize you fleet operations.