Discover the top fleet GPS tracking systems that offer a comprehensive solution for real-time vehicle monitoring, driver behavior analysis, regular report generation, and effective fuel cost optimization. Whether you are embarking on a new fleet business venture or aiming to enhance your existing operations with advanced technology, these systems are designed to propel your business towards greater efficiency and success.
Find out how the following cutting-edge options can help you achieve your goals.
Quicklook: 5 best fleet GPS tracking systems
- Best for Mid- and Large-sized Fleets: Verizon Connect
- Best for Simple Implementation: Motive
- Best for All Fleet Sizes: Azuga
- Best for Data Insights: Trimble
- Best for Fleets with Various Vehicle Types: FleetUp
How does GPS fleet tracking work?
GPS fleet tracking involves the utilization of vehicle-connected devices that transmit data and information to the cloud, enabling remote access for fleet managers. This valuable information encompasses various aspects critical to fleet management:
- Driver behavior
- Fuel use
- Vehicle location
- Status of assets
- Vehicle maintenance
- Security
- Route planning
Many GPS fleet tracking devices utilize cellular networks, enabling the transmission of real-time data within a time frame of 1-30 seconds. This ensures the most accurate and up-to-date information for effective decision-making.
Benefits of using fleet GPS tracking software
If you’re wondering what’s the best GPS for truckers, you should first evaluate the features and benefits they provide. From electronic logging device (ELD) compliance to improved safety, here’s a look at what you’ll experience when implementing this software.
Improved safety
GPS fleet tracking can help improve the safety of your drivers through in-depth behavioral feedback. Some systems that integrate with cameras allow trainers to send drivers footage of mistakes or areas of improvement. Plus, fleet managers will get maintenance alerts to avoid putting risky vehicles on the road.
Increased efficiency
Optimizing operational efficiency is key to minimizing wasteful expenditures on unnecessary mileage and unproductive time spent in the yard. Employing a GPS tracking system can greatly assist in swiftly pinpointing the exact locations of vehicles, expediting their arrival at docks or required destinations. This feature effectively reduces lag time and maximizes the utilization of a driver’s working hours, resulting in enhanced productivity and streamlined operations.
Reduced fuel costs
Fuel costs are one of the largest expenses that a fleet faces. If a driver uses a vehicle for unauthorized miles, it can increase fuel expenses unnecessarily. With GPS tracking, you can set geofences along the driver’s route to prevent unauthorized use and help fleet managers find ways to improve fuel efficiency. Another fuel benefit that most GPS devices offer is better route planning, which can further reduce fuel costs.
Theft or accident recovery
Thefts and accidents are common in the fleet industry. But with GPS tracking and dashcams, you can locate these vehicles quickly and reduce recovery times. With roadside assistance built into many devices, you can rest assured that your drivers will be attended to quickly in the case of an emergency. And in the case of theft, you can activate the GPS tracker to find stolen assets.
Better data
GPS fleet tracking software can provide customized reports so that fleet managers can view and track the information that is most important to them. This feature can help companies make more informed decisions and take advantage of opportunities to run a leaner business through optimized routes, loads or distribution.
5 best fleet GPS tracking systems
Whether you’re looking for a touchscreen GPS or a simple system that gets the job done, here’s a list of the leading options with features and details to inform your decision-making.
Verizon Connect
Best for: Mid-size and large fleets
For mid-size and large fleets, Verizon Connect is ideal because it offers 40 apps and integration with other services to meet the needs of various fleet types. You’ll also get built-in federal and state compliance features to help you operate your business. The customized reports are easy to set up and run using a simple dashboard. These reports can help you find opportunities for cutting costs or maximizing your resources. And if you’re switching to electronic vehicles (EVs), Verizon Connect supports EVs.
| Technical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | 30 x 51 x 3.15mm |
| Resolution | None; connects to phone or optional ELD or dashcam |
| Display Type | None; connects to phone or optional ELD or dashcam |
| Mounting Type | OBD-II port mount |
| Voice Command | No |
| Camera | No; optional additional dashcams |
| Storage | Automatically uploads to a server via cellular connection |
| Lane Assist | No |
| Speed Limit Indicator | No |
| Traffic Services | Yes |
Special Features:
- Customization for various fleet types
- Real-time data updates every 30 seconds
- Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered dashcam
- Roadside assistance
Benefits:
- Customizable vehicle reports and maintenance management
- Cost savings insights
- 40 apps available
- Federal and state compliance tools
- Improved safety records
Disadvantages:
- More complex learning curve
- 36-month contract minimum
Pricing: Approximately $20 per vehicle per month for the starter plan. Contact Verizon for personalized pricing.
Motive
Best for: Simple implementation
Motive offers one of the simplest GPS-based fleet management system options on the market to help you get started quickly. If you get stuck during the setup process, its guides and clear instructions help you troubleshoot and move quickly through the process. You can upgrade your monitoring by adding road-facing or dual-facing dashcams to aid in detecting unsafe driving. Remote managers can coach new drivers or train them at a distance in real-time to improve driver safety.
| Technical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | Unavailable |
| Resolution | None; phone app |
| Display Type | None; phone app |
| Mounting Type | OBD-II port |
| Voice Command | No |
| Camera | Option to add road-facing or dual-facing dashcams |
| Storage | Real-time data updates every 1-3 seconds |
| Lane Assist | No |
| Speed Limit Indicator | Yes |
| Traffic Services | No |
Special Features:
- Setup guides and step-by-step instructions for installation
- 24/7 customer support available via many communication types
Benefits:
- Easy-to-read dashboard
- Optional dashcams to capture footage even when vehicle is off
- Driver safety leaderboards to motivate safety
- IFTA fuel reports
- Compliance logs for hours of service (HOS)
Disadvantages:
- No free trial
- Requires 12-month contract
Pricing: Motive only offers custom quotes. Reach out for more information.
Azuga
Best for: All fleet sizes
Azuga offers outstanding tools for improving driver safety alongside detailed information to help you run your business. Motivate drivers to improve their driving using information the GPS vehicle tracking system offers. Allow your drivers to see how they rank in relation to their peers and consider offering rewards for the best performers using the connected app with DriveActive. The tools are simple to set up and get started using. The mobile app is intuitive and easy to use.
| Technical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | 1.7”x1.8”x1”, 31.1 g (1.1 oz) |
| Resolution | None; phone app |
| Display Type | None; phone app |
| Mounting Type | Self-installed into OBD-II port |
| Voice Command | No |
| Camera | No |
| Storage | Uploads coordinates |
| Lane Assist | No |
| Speed Limit Indicator | No |
| Traffic Services | No |
Special Features:
- Simple plug-and-play device that installs in 10 seconds
- Driver diagnostics, including calls received and made and texts sent
- Customizable fleet reports
Benefits:
- Driver safety motivational tools with scoreboards and incentives
- Customer support team with various ways to get in touch
- Online training and resources available
- Custom reports
- Captures mileage and idle time
Disadvantages:
- Some users report issues with the wrong location of buildings.
- Some users report billing issues.
- Azuga requires a three-year contract to get started.
Pricing: $25 per month per vehicle starting price
Trimble
Best for: Data insights
No matter the size of your fleet, Trimble is excellent tool tracking vehicles and offering data insights so you can make informed decisions. Select from one of three tiers to get the features and functionality you want from your GPS tracking system while balancing your budget. See how your drivers are doing with live stats and information. Build efficient routes using the software to lower fuel costs while delivering goods within the timeframe you committed to.
| Technical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | Variable based on which device you select |
| Resolution | None; phone app |
| Display Type | None; phone app |
| Mounting Type | Variable based on which device you select |
| Voice Command | None |
| Camera | Option to add a Trimble dashcam but does not come standard |
| Storage | Variable, starting at 8GB |
| Lane Assist | None |
| Speed Limit Indicator | None |
| Traffic Services | None |
Special Features:
- Fuel price tracking
- System alerts
- Geofencing
Benefits:
- Maintenance management tools
- Engine diagnostics and alerts
- User-friendly
- Customizable reports
Disadvantages: Occasional issues with customer care
Pricing: Prices only available with a quote based on features you select, contract length and number of vehicles in your fleet.
FleetUp
Best for: Fleets with various vehicle types
FleetUp helps companies with many vehicle types manage their assets in one place. From semis to minivans, FleetUp offers solutions that are right-sized for fleets with many types of vehicles. You’ll get all the features you’d expect from a GPS tracker system, including driver behavior alerts, trip analysis and reports for improving efficiency and fuel use. Share dashcam footage via email or SMS to offer drivers insights and detailed feedback.
| Technical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | Unavailable |
| Resolution | None; phone app |
| Display Type | None; phone app |
| Mounting Type | Plug-and-play device |
| Voice Command | Yes, within the mobile app |
| Camera | Optional add-on |
| Storage | Local memory card and uploads to the cloud regularly |
| Lane Assist | No |
| Speed Limit Indicator | No |
| Traffic Services | No |
Special Features:
- Step-by-step device implementation process
- Options for training
- Option to add a telematics expert to your plan for detailed feedback and fleet management
Benefits:
- 24/7 support via various communication types
- 10-second refresh on real-time tracking
- Tracking tools for various vehicle types
Disadvantages:
- Pricing not transparent
Pricing: Because FleetUp offers such a wide variety of vehicle tracking devices, you’ll need to reach out for a specific quote based on your needs.
Choosing the right GPS fleet tracking system
As you evaluate the best GPS for truckers, consider the most reliable system, what previous customers have to say in online reviews and what reports and features the software offers. Here are some general guidelines for how to pick the best fleet tracking system.
Installation
Each type of vehicle in your fleet may have different installation requirements for GPS tracking devices. Review your fleet’s needs and capabilities to find the mounting approach that works for you. Most GPS fleet trackers now connect to the OBD port.
Fleet size
Some vehicle tracking providers will only service fleets of a certain size. If you need a solution for only a few fleet vehicles, make sure you meet the GPS provider’s minimum threshold. And if you operate a larger fleet, look for add-ons that help streamline management processes, like automations and customized reporting capabilities.
Ease of use
Most devices are plug-and-play, which means you can install them yourself in 10 minutes or less. Many companies offer training videos and explainers to ensure the process is painless. Make sure you review these resources before selecting an asset tracking system.
GPS fleet tracking reports
Every fleet is different and while many systems come with pre-built reports, look for one that has customizable reports so you can track what is most important to you. This feature will help you get the most out of your system and see cost savings from the device. Consider what metrics are important to you, such as idle time, maintenance, geofencing and route suggestions.
Improve fleet efficiency and driver safety
Fleet GPS tracking systems offer insights into efficiency and driver safety tools. Gamify the driver safety process using leaderboards and incentives for the best drivers. But also track your assets in real time to find efficiency opportunities. The best system will put valuable data and information at your fingertips so you can make better-informed long-term decisions and support drivers in new ways.
FAQ
Tracking company vehicles driven for business purposes is completely legal.
Fleet tracking software tells you where your assets are and how they are being used. Fleet management software offers more than just locational data to provide insights such as maintenance requirements and fuel efficiency.
The best GPS for truckers varies based on the size of your fleet and requirements, but some industry leaders include Azuga, Motive, and Trimble.
Verizon Connect’s fleet tracking service starts at $0.66 per day per vehicle, which translates to approximately $20 per vehicle per month. However, this is for the basic Starter plan, and prices are subject to change. Check their site for the latest, most accurate monthly fees and promotions.
Fleet GPS tracking systems can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 per vehicle per month. The price depends on the features offered and number of vehicles being tracked.
