Over 86% of fleets use tracking software in their business. If you have a fleet of vehicles in your business, you should track them with the latest technology. The question then becomes how to choose fleet tracking software. There are many different options available, each with its strengths and weaknesses.
This article will discuss what to look for when choosing a fleet-tracking software provider and provide a list of some of the best options available. Read on to learn more about choosing fleet-tracking software and the costs associated with using fleet-tracking software.
How to choose Fleet Tracking Software?
Top 10 Things For How to Choose Fleet Tracking Software:
- Ease-of-use
- Transparent pricing
- Easy installation
- Flexible
- Integrates with leading software providers
- Real-time tracking
- Data insights
- Automated proof-of-service emails
- Fuel consumption monitoring
- Powered and non-powered equipment tracking is available in a unified solution in addition to traditional vehicle tracking
That is a very high level overview. Of course what you need depends on the unique conditions and needs of your business. So let us backup and go over in a little more detail what fleet tracking software is and how you can best evaluate the options out there for you. (After all, we are a little biased and think you'll do well to give Linxup a chance.)
What Is Fleet Tracking Software?
Fleet tracking software is a tool businesses can use to track the location and activity of their vehicles. This information serves a variety of purposes, including:
- Ensuring that vehicles are used efficiently
- Determining whether drivers are following routes
- Monitoring driver behavior
- Tracking maintenance schedules
There are many different fleet-tracking software options available on the market, and the right choice for your business will depend on a number of factors. These include the size of your fleet, the type of vehicles you have, and your budget.
How to Evaluate Fleet Tracking Software Providers
With the wealth of options and rivalries in the software-as-a-service industry, it can take time to pick the right one. We are here to help guide you through the process! Below are some factors to consider before settling on a provider.
Industry
The first question one often gets when talking to someone about fleet management software is related to your industry. That is because different industries use tracking software to manage their fleets differently.
If the features are well-suited for your business, then there will be examples of customers like your business.
For example, if you manage a fleet of service trucks, you'll want to look for software that includes dispatch features and driver tracking.
On the other hand, if you manage a fleet of construction vehicles, you'll want to look for software that includes maintenance scheduling and GPS tracking features.
Size of Fleet
When considering fleet management software, it's essential to consider the size of your fleet. If you have many vehicles, you'll need software that can accommodate that.
While more feature-rich software may have a higher price tag, it can save you money in the long run by helping you manage your fleet more efficiently. Therefore, when choosing fleet management software, consider both the size of your fleet and your budget.
Fleet tracking software budget
Speaking of budget, this is always an important consideration. Fleet tracking software can range in price from around $25 per month to several thousand dollars. The right choice for your business will depend on your specific needs and budget.
There are a few things to keep in mind when making your decision. First, consider the scale of your operation. You'll need a more robust system to handle the increased data volume if you have a large fleet of vehicles.
Second, think about the features you need. Some systems offer basic tracking capabilities, while others include advanced features such as real-time location tracking and driver behavior monitoring.
Be sure to get a price quote from multiple vendors to ensure you get the best value for your money. You'll also want to factor in the cost of outfitting all your vehicles with devices. By taking all of these factors into account, you can be sure to choose the best fleet-tracking software for your business.
Type of Fleet Vehicles
If you have a mix of cars, trucks, and vans, you'll need software that can track all types of vehicles. You can get by with a less expensive software option if you only have a vehicle. Once you have selected the right software, you'll be well on your way to managing your fleet more.
Ease of Use
You want a system that will be quick and easy to install so that you can get started tracking your fleet as soon as possible. The system should be intuitive and easy to use, so you will save time figuring out how it works. By choosing a system that is easy to set up and use, you can get started managing your fleet without any headaches.
This is where Linxup customers applaud our product development team. We are known for being the easiest to use, and right-sized software for tracking fleets from two to ten vehicles, and upwards from 1000+ vehicles and assets managed.
Compatibility
Make sure to check that the software is compatible with the type of vehicles you have. Some software only works with certain types of vehicles, so this is crucial to check before making a purchase. Choosing a system that tracks all vehicle types is essential if you have a fleet of mixed vehicles.
Reporting features
The best fleet tracking software will provide detailed reports on your fleet's activity. These reports can improve efficiency and spot potential problems. By tracking things like fuel usage, average speed, and idle time, you can make changes that will save you money and increase your profitability.
You can also use the reports to identify careless or unsafe driving patterns and take steps to correct the problem. In short, detailed fleet reporting tools are essential for any fleet manager who wants to run a successful operation.
Scalability
As your business grows, you'll want to make sure that the fleet tracking software you choose can grow with you. Look for software that offers a variety of plans, so you can upgrade as you scale your business.
Types of Industries that Find Fleet Tracking Software Useful
Consider which features and functions are necessary for success in your industry, then determine if the software you're interested in checks all of those boxes. Then select the best options for tracking software to suit your business.
Rental Vehicles and GPS tracking
If you manage a rental vehicle business, you'll want to track the location of each car at all times. This way, you can see where each vehicle is and how long it has been there. You can also use this information to determine whether a car needs to be serviced or cleaned.
In addition, many rental car companies use GPS tracking to enforce their late return policies. By tracking the location of each car, they can see if a customer is trying to return the vehicle late. This helps them to enforce their policies and ensure that each customer pays the appropriate fee.
Trucking and Freight Companies Avoid Risk
This type of business has a higher volume of vehicles on the road, often over long distances. As a result, they need software that can provide real-time tracking, alerts for driver behavior, and the ability to generate reports.
Some over-the-road trucking and freight companies also use GPS tracking to enforce speed limits and keep drivers on their assigned routes. The extra intel helps to improve efficiency and reduces the chance of accidents.
ELD Devices allow electronic logging for ELD compliance. Linxup's ELD device is now easier to use than ever before.
Courier Services
This type of business often needs to track a large number of vehicles in real-time, as well as generate reports on driver behavior and vehicle utilization.
Courier services also need to know the location of each vehicle at all times so that they can dispatch the nearest one to a customer's location. These dispatch features improve efficiency and ensure that customers receive their packages promptly.
Public Transit
This business needs to track passengers and vehicles in real-time and generate reports on driver behavior, vehicle utilization, and passenger counts.
Public transit companies also need to know the location of each vehicle at all times so that they can dispatch the nearest one to a passenger's location. The timely information helps to improve efficiency and ensure that passengers receive the best possible service.
Construction
This business must track heavy equipment and vehicles, often in remote locations. As a result, they need software that offers features such as GPS tracking, real-time alerts, and the ability to generate reports.
GPS Fleet Tracking Benefits
Installing GPS fleet tracking offers many benefits that can save businesses time and money.
Some of the top benefits include:
Accident Reduction
When an accident occurs, GPS tracking data can determine what happened and who was at fault, and possibly to file an insurance claim and save the business money.
In addition, GPS data can improve safety in the workplace and prevent future accidents, which means lower insurance premiums and a reduction in workers' compensation claims.
Improved Customer Service
GPS tracking can help monitor vehicles' location and ensure they are on schedule. This information can help to provide customers with accurate arrival times.
GPS tracking can also help to route vehicles around traffic delays and construction. GPS-informed routing can lead to faster arrival times and happier customers.
Decreased Fuel Costs
Fleet tracking can help to improve the efficiency of your fleet. You can make changes that save you money by monitoring things like idling times and fuel usage.
GPS data also helps to plan the most efficient routes for your vehicles. This efficient routing leads to fewer miles being driven and lower fuel costs.
Improved Productivity
GPS tracking can help monitor employee behavior and ensure they are working when they are supposed to be. This information can help to improve productivity and profitability.
You can also monitor the usage of company assets. This information can help ensure that employees use the equipment they are supposed to use.
As you can see, many benefits come with GPS fleet tracking. If you want to save money and improve the efficiency of your business, GPS fleet tracking is a great option.
Types of Fleet Tracking Software
There are a variety of fleet-tracking software packages on the market. The type of software you choose will depend on your specific needs. At Linxup, our software allows you to:
Get Realtime Locations of Your Vehicles
You'll be able to see the exact location of all your vehicles at all times. This information updates in real time, so you'll always know where your assets are.
Receive Alerts & Notifications
You can set up alerts to notify you when certain events occur. For example, get notified when a vehicle goes over the speed limit, enters or leaves a specific area, or idles for too long.
Generate Detailed Reports
You'll be able to generate detailed reports on vehicle usage, driver behavior, and fuel consumption. This information can help you to improve the efficiency of your business.
View Driver Logs & Hours of Service
You can view driver logs to see when they started their shift, took breaks, and clocked out. This information can help you to ensure that your drivers are following regulations.
Get Web and Mobile Access with Regular Software Updates
You'll be able to access your account from any web browser or mobile device. You'll also receive regular software updates, so you'll always have the latest features.
Choose the Right Fleet Tracking Software for Your Business
These are a few things you should keep in mind when it's time to choose fleet tracking software. Ease of use, cost, features, and customer support are all essential factors.
At Linxup, we offer a variety of GPS tracking devices for all types of industries and software packages to meet the needs of your business. We have a team of experts who can help you choose the right solution for your needs.
Want to know more about the solutions discussed in this article? Reach out to us, click here on your phone or dial: 1-877-907-0801.
