The Role of Vehicle Tracking in the Car Shipping Industry
The auto transport industry is a very competitive one. For an auto transport company to stay on top it has to embrace the latest technology. GPS tracking has been around for several years, but more recently, the technology has come on in leaps and bounds.
A common question received by our shipping advisors is “Can I track my car?” As you can imagine, they are very happy to hear that it’s possible. Not with all the carriers we use but certainly quite a few of them.
How does a vehicle tracking device work?
A vehicle tracker system is a business solution that uses in-vehicle telematics together with fleet management software. It collects data from a vehicle and its driver and provides the carrier with robust and actionable data about what’s going on in the field. Processes that were previously manual suddenly become more efficient and convenient for the carrier and its customers.
What are the different types of vehicle tracking systems?
There are two main categories of tracking systems, depending on the time of data transmission: active and passive tracking.
Passive vehicle tracking
This type of vehicle tracking system gathers data about a vehicle’s location and stores it on a hard drive or memory card. The data is then accessed at a later date. It’s very simple to install. You simply place it in a vehicle and when you want to access the information stored by the tracker, you plug it into a computer.
Once the data has been extracted, it can be displayed in various ways to provide driving summary reports. These reports will provide target vehicle locations, where the vehicle went, how long it stayed at each stop, and much more.
The only downside of this type of tracking system is that it doesn’t provide real-time tracking. It’s therefore unlikely to be of any use in times of emergency such as theft or road accidents.
Active vehicle tracking
An active vehicle tracking system, on the other hand, gathers the same data but transmits it in near-real-time or in real-time using satellite or cellular networks. The system is a little more complex but offers far more advantages.
Cellular tracking is the most economical system to set up. Fleet location information is transmitted via cellular networks. An app and internet connection is required, but it allows users to view the data or edit tracking settings. Locations are usually relayed every 1 to 10 minutes, depending on the system.
Shipping and trucking companies tend to prefer satellite tracking systems because they provide detailed reports and real-time updates, even if there is no cellphone coverage in a particular area.
What are the benefits of tracking vehicles?
There are many benefits for an auto transportation company when it starts using GPS to track vehicles.
Improves communication between the company and its drivers
Two-way communication is essential between business owners and their fleets. When a carrier can track a vehicle using a tracking device they have access to comprehensive information about the entire fleet. The carrier can assign new pickups and reroute vehicles remotely. In addition, drivers can receive notifications and be alerted about any bad driving habits.
Lowers operational costs
Vehicle tracking allows auto transport companies to monitor and track the routes the drivers choose. They can also monitor whether drivers are using their vehicles for personal purposes. The comprehensive dashboard also allows owners to easily calculate fleet costs.
Such procedures might seem over the top, but they are essential if a transport company wants to improve productivity and reduce costs. It allows owners to find and reward their best drivers with extra benefits because of the savings they’re making.
Minimizes the risk of theft
With GPS trackers, it’s possible to keep track of the location of equipment. They offer real-time data for monitoring transportation trucks as well as individual vehicles. If a vehicle is stolen, the vehicle tracking system can track down the exact location so it’s possible to retrieve it or inform the police of its whereabouts.
The option to set up GPS theft alerts can stop something from being stolen. A GPS alert can also send a notification when a vehicle leaves a certain area, which could be an indication that it’s been stolen. If there is any unplanned or unusual activity, the system sends an alert or an email. This means quick action can be taken to check out suspicious activity immediately.
Improves route planning
Transportation drivers use GPS to identify the best routes. It’s a money and time-saving feature and allows drivers to plan their routes quickly and easily. Transport managers can use the trackers to find the quickest routes, making customers happy with faster deliveries.
With proper route planning, it’s possible to make more deliveries in a single day. Clients can also be given accurate updates on arrival times and delays. When tracking data is sent to a transport platform or custom-built website, customers can be updated in real-time. Notifications can be sent for the customer to stay home ready for their delivery.
Ensures driver safety
When carriers monitor their fleet they get a clear view of the behavior of their drivers. They can be reminded not to drive too fast or recklessly. An app can send an alert if there’s an emergency and it allows managers to keep up-to-date with their drivers and help anytime it’s needed.
Customer peace of mind
Thanks to Amazon Prime and similar speedy deliveries, customers now expect their shipments to arrive in double quick time. They seem to forget that when it comes to a large truck and trailer, things can get in the way of prompt delivery times.
However, with GPS tracking, they can check their orders in real-time and see how close their delivery is. Customers get peace of mind because they can check on their vehicles at any given time.
If you’re ready to see how efficient our auto transport services are, contact our shipping advisors and make your booking. Before you pick up the phone and dial (864) 546-5038, make sure to use our online quote calculator to find out how much it’ll cost. We also have a Live Chat option if you prefer.
FAQs
What is the purpose of a vehicle tracking system?
The purpose of a vehicle tracking system is to track vehicles in real-time. Other functions might include vehicle maintenance reminders, journey history, driver behavior analysis, fuel management, and dispatching.
What is meant by vehicle tracking?
Vehicle tracking is a software system that transport companies use to monitor the location of their trucks, trailers, and other vehicles. The software connects to the vehicle using GPS.
Why is tracking important in logistics?
Tracking is important in logistics because it monitors the location and status of shipments. With such information, manpower can be scheduled and actions taken to ensure prompt deliveries.
How do I track my car on a ship?
Car shipping companies that transport vehicles over the sea offer online tracking services. You must enter a tracking number or the VIN of your vehicle and receive an instant update.
