One of the most innovative areas in logistics and supply chain management is the use of data and technology for improving and streamlining logistics processes. It is especially true when it comes to tracking and monitoring the whereabouts of valuable assets like trucks, trailers, pallets, and cargo containers. Tracking and monitoring the location of vehicles and cargo is a must for companies who need to ensure that their shipments arrive on time, in good shape, and the correct quantities. For that to be possible, you need to develop a GPS tracking software.
In this post, we’ll discuss why you need to create a logistics software for your business, what features you should look for, and how you can build a GPS tracker for your business.
What is a GPS tracking system and how does it work?
A GPS tracking system is a type of hardware and software that works together to track the location of assets. The device can be attached to a vehicle and transmit its coordinates, speed, and route information to the management software via cellular or satellite connection.
The main function of the hardware is to provide geolocation data for use in logistics applications. Hardware can be installed on any type of asset (i.e., trailers, containers, trucks) and transmits data wirelessly over a cellular or satellite connection. This allows for accurate monitoring from anywhere in the world at any time.
How to build a GPS car tracking software?
In most cases GPS tracking software is rather demanding and tailored for a business process, requiring a case-by-case approach. Thus, for this type of solution we would recommend going custom development.
To get a GPS tracking system set up, you need to have a clear idea of what you want it to track. Think about the different aspects of your business and what you need to track. These include route optimization, vehicle maintenance and driver behavior.
The whole processes of a GPS tracking software development can be divided into 3 steps:
- Developing a tracking appliance;
- Installing the required hardware;
- Building software itself.
There are several components one needs in order to build a GPS tracking system. These include a mobile module (or a GPS receiver), computer or tabloid, vehicle and suitable software. GPS tracking operates on the principle of "sending and receiving". An entity sends a signal to a GPS receiver, which then sends that information back. The GPS receiver collects data about the signal's strength and geo coordinates to determine vehicles’ location.
GPS is an inexpensive way to track assets because most devices can operate on battery power, which means they don't need to be wired into the truck or asset you are tracking. This allows for some freedom with placement of the device without worrying about access to electricity. Additional advantage is the possibility to acquire and use GPS units when needed instead of having to purchase them all at once.
5 Vehicle GPS software features you can't go without
The logistics sector is one of the most competitive industries today, and this reflects on a high degree of different tech solutions, logistics companies are after. No matter how big or small your company is, there are five top features that one needs to ensure efficiency in logistics processes. We recommend you consider them when developing a GPS vehicle tracker for your business.
Real-time tracking
One of the most sought-after features in a logistics software is real-time tracking. With this feature, you will be able to know the location of your vehicles and drivers at any time. This is especially important for companies that have long delivery routes. It also allows you to create more efficient routes by monitoring the driver's speed and location.
Notifications
You can set up alerts for when specific things happen and stay informed about the location of your assets at all times. For example, the most sought for are Notifications of Arrival or Delay. For business processes and customer satisfaction, logistics companies need logistics software that could send you an email or SMS text message notifying you about the delivery status. Additionally, notifications are actively used for monitoring the shipment process and that everything goes according to the plan. In case of any changes in routes, breakages or overspeeding managers get immediate alerts.
Location Privacy (GEO fencing)
The feature is also known as GEO fencing as companies can figuratively set up a virtual fence that helps them locate vehicles and if needed help drivers in managing the vehicle remotely. This feature enables logistics managers to have better control over the entire supply chain. With geo fencing, it becomes easier to manage and optimize operations. You can set up geo fences around your warehouses and use it to monitor the incoming and outgoing shipments. In this way, you will not only be able to track the locations of your shipments but also know when they are delivered or missing.
Route optimization
Different logistics businesses have different needs when it comes to routing rules for their vehicles or cargo containers. That’s why it’s important to look for a GPS vehicle tracker with customizable routing rules based on different factors such as vehicle size, weight and volume restrictions, length of haul, etc. The goal behind route optimization is to reduce fuel costs, time-to-delivery, and carbon footprint.
Fuel monitoring
The fuel monitoring feature is a proper way to keep track of how much fuel vehicles consume. It also generates insights about the routes taken by drivers for refueling and reveals any inefficient routes that need to be corrected. Thus, fuel monitoring is a truly indisputable feature when it comes to cutting costs and saving on fuel; what most logistics companies are constantly looking for.
Benefits of using a GPS tracking system
The market for logistics software is growing at an impressive rate. The increased use of technology is driving demand for effective tracking software solutions. It has become crucial to obtain a comprehensive view of the performance of your supply chain—from warehouse to retail store. But what are the particular benefits of a GPS tracking system for logistics?
Assets tracking at any location
First, it allows you to track assets anywhere in the world. This feature is important if your company has assets that travel long distances, or if your assets often need to leave your country of origin in order to reach their destination.
Updated data on vehicle’s status
Second, GPS vehicle trackers provide information about the vehicle’s location and status. In other words, it tells you when vehicles enter and exit premises, when they make deliveries at each stop, and how much time they spend at each stop. Understanding where assets are at all times allows businesses to optimize their routes.
Driver behavior monitoring
Third, GPS tracking systems allow you to monitor driver behavior (i.e., speeding). It also monitors driving hours and ensures that drivers get enough rest between shifts.
Better fleet management
Fourth, GPS tracking systems help with fleet management in a way that is more effective than any single method on its own. The system can be used to track any kind of asset - You can track anything, including vehicles, boats, planes, etc. It is simple to set up and use - You can set up a GPS vehicle tracker in a few minutes and start tracking your assets immediately
Better decision-making
Fifth, GPS tracking systems help identify system failures and allow for better decision-making by providing valuable data about where problems may exist in the shipping process before they become major issues (i.e., faulty equipment). If there is a breakdown in the system, you can easily know where the asset is located. This makes it easier to take action and solve the problem quickly.
Remote management
And finally, GPS tracking systems can be managed remotely which means that employees do not have to waste time manually inputting data about shipments or vehicles into the system.
Cost efficiency
Additionally, since GPS tracking is wireless, it is very cost-effective. You don’t need to have a large budget to get started. GPS tracking systems have become an important part of the supply chain ecosystem. They are fast becoming a key monitoring and analytics tool that companies can’t do without.
Conclusion
Having a GPS tracking software can help you track the location of your vehicles and your employees better. No matter if you’re a small business owner, a trucking company, or a manufacturer, you need a GPS tracking tool that can track the location of your trucks (truck tracker system) and employees on a map.
Considering a GPS tracking development? Let us give you a consultation on your next steps in building a reliable GPS tracker.