Has it ever happened to you that your most expensive fleet got stolen from the construction site? This is considered to be a major loss and is quite common than one might think.
So what’s the solution for it?
GPS tracker for heavy equipment is what individuals and business owners need. Not to mention that the GPS market was worth $3.7 billion in 2024. It keeps all your expensive gear safe and provides some other benefits as well that we are going to learn soon.
In this article, I’ll talk about GPS trackers for heavy equipment and how it is the best way to protect and manage your fleet.
Company vehicles usually aren’t left on the working sites, but heavy gear is even on remote locations or rented out to someone else. This makes it a prime target for theft. The National Equipment Register (NER) has stated that construction equipment theft costs businesses between $300 million and $1 billion annually in the U.S. alone.
However, only about 21% of stolen instrumentality is ever recovered, the rest is nowhere to be found. A GPS tracker can solve this problem while offering assistance with asset utilization, care planning, and cost optimization. Let’s examine the key benefits.
Now, let’s learn about some benefits that this device provides when dealing with heavy equipment. This includes:
One of the biggest concerns for construction and rental businesses is equipment theft. But with GPS devices you can track where they are and if they left the area it is designated for an immediate alert.
Not only that, the advanced models will even send a security alert if it is being removed forcefully or in any other way. Last but not least, if the machinery gets stolen, authorities can retrieve it with the help of data collected on GPS.
Tracking your equipment in real-time ensures better fleet efficiency. It can identify which equipment is running but not in use, which will save fuel costs and unnecessary usage. Not only that, but it will even send the nearest machine to the job site.
Unauthorized access is prevented as it sets off alerts if off-hours movements are recorded and the vehicle is only used for business purposes.
Proper care is critical for increasing the lifespan of your appliances. A GPS tracking system can:
Several insurance companies lower premiums if a GPS is installed. This is because it reduces the risk of theft and ensures safe operation. Some regulatory agencies might require asset tracking for compliance, as it comes under the operational guidelines.
Modern GPS systems provide more than just location data. Advanced models can monitor fuel levels, detect unauthorized operation, and even track engine diagnostics, helping you make data-driven decisions to improve business efficiency.
A GPS monitoring system for heavy instrumentation uses satellite and cellular technology to provide real-time or periodic location updates. Here’s how the system functions:
There are some key features that GPS trackers should include, and we will learn about them in the next heading.
Not all GPS trackers are created equal. Here’s what to consider when selecting a tracking solution:
Start by figuring out what type of tracker you want or need. Is it a wired one that connects directly to the equipment and provides constant tacking, or battery powered tracker which is best for non-powered assets such as trailers, generators, etc.?
There is also a satellite GPS, greatly beneficial in areas with no reliable cellular network. It’s important to choose the right one, or it won’t perform well.
Heavy machinery is tuned to rough conditions, so the tracker should be waterproof, dustproof, and impact-resistant. Look for IP67 or higher-grade devices.
If you’re observing an asset that doesn’t have a fixed power source, opt for a reliable battery-powered GPS recorder with conservation modes.
With the geofencing feature, individuals can set boundaries around the site and if the fleet is recorded going outside that zone an immediate alert would be sent.
GPS trackers that come with a user-friendly app or dashboard that can be installed in the fleet can be a game changer and would make tracking easier. Features like custom reports, route history, and maintenance reminders add extra value.
Opt for a trusted provider with 24/7 support, dependable tracking performance, and an established track record in the industry. A few more points can be seen in the infographic below that need to be taken into consideration.
If you’re looking for a reliable GPS tracker for your heavy cargo, here are some top-rated options:
✔ Solid-state & battery-powered capabilities
✔ 4G LTE transmission for real-time information collection
✔ Hardy, waterproof architectural elements
✔ Geofencing, tamper alerts, and periodic tracking
✔ Small, portable, and battery-powered
✔ Real-time navigation with Google Maps connectivity
✔ Best for supervising borrowed machinery
✔ Works in distant locations with no cellular coverage
✔ Waterproof and resilient
✔ Directs alerts if gear moves disproportionately
Installation depends on the monitor type:
FUN FACT
The U.S. Department of Defense started the GPS project in 1973 and the prototype was finally launched in 1978!
A GPS tracker is an essential tool for heavy machines regardless of construction, rental, or agricultural business. It helps prevent burglaries, improves fleet supervision, reduces downtime, and guarantees your valuable possessions are always where they should be.
It’s important to invest in a quality GPS tracking system as it protects your equipment but also increases operational efficiency by saving time/money and reducing stress.
If you’re ready to lock down your fleet, check out our top-rated GPS devices today!Need help choosing the right tracker? Contact us for expert recommendations tailored to your business needs. 🚜🔍
