OKLAHOMA CITY - February 2014 - Choosing a GPS tracking system is an important decision that will impact fleet operations for years to come. Making the wrong choice can result in wasted money, limited functionality, and ongoing frustration. Here's what businesses need to know before purchasing a GPS tracker.
Understand Real-Time vs. Historical Tracking
Some GPS systems only provide historical tracking, showing where vehicles have been after downloading data later. Real-time GPS tracking provides instant location updates every few seconds, enabling immediate response to emergencies, dynamic dispatching, and live customer updates. For most businesses, real-time tracking delivers far superior value despite slightly higher costs.
Review Contract Terms Carefully
Many GPS providers require long-term contracts with substantial cancellation fees. Be wary of contracts longer than one year or those with automatic renewal clauses. Understand exactly what happens if you need to cancel service or reduce the number of tracked vehicles. Some providers charge expensive early termination fees that can cost more than continuing unwanted service.
Evaluate Total Cost of Ownership
Compare total costs over 2-3 years, not just monthly fees. Consider installation charges, activation fees, hardware costs, monthly service fees, and any additional charges for features like reports, alerts, or multiple users. The lowest advertised monthly rate often doesn't include all these costs. Ask for a complete price breakdown before committing.
Verify Coverage Area
If your vehicles travel across states or internationally, ensure the GPS system provides reliable coverage in all necessary areas. Some providers only offer limited regional coverage or charge extra for expanded coverage areas. Confirm that the system will work everywhere your vehicles operate.
Assess Customer Support Quality
GPS tracking systems occasionally experience technical issues or require user assistance. Evaluate the provider's customer support capabilities including hours of availability, response times, and support channels (phone, email, chat). Read reviews from current customers about their support experiences. Poor customer service can turn a good product into a nightmare.
Check for Hidden Fees
Some GPS providers charge additional fees for features that should be standard including data downloads, report generation, additional user logins, mobile app access, or API integration. Clarify exactly what's included in the base price and what costs extra.
Request a Trial or Demo
Before committing to a long-term contract, request a free trial or live demonstration. Test the system with your actual vehicles and users to ensure it meets your needs. Evaluate the user interface, mobile app functionality, reporting capabilities, and overall ease of use. A system that looks great in marketing materials might be frustrating to use daily.
Key Questions to Ask
- Contract Length: What commitment is required and what are cancellation terms?
- Total Cost: What are all fees including setup, hardware, and monthly charges?
- Coverage: Does the system work everywhere I need it?
- Support: When is support available and how do I reach them?
- Features: What's included vs. what costs extra?
- Scalability: Can I easily add or remove vehicles?
- Trial: Can I test the system before committing?
About US Fleet Tracking
Since 2005, US Fleet Tracking has been a pioneer in web-based GPS tracking solutions, serving thousands of businesses from small operations to large fleets. The company provides transparent pricing, no long-term contracts, real-time tracking with sub-ten-second updates, and industry-leading customer service available when you need it.
Contact Information
For more information or a free consultation:
US Fleet Tracking
Phone: (405) 726-9900
Email: sales@usft.com
Website: www.usfleettracking.com