What are asset trackers used for?
As the name suggests, an asset tracker is a device that sends its carrier location to the server. Although the principle is pretty simple, such devices have found their niche in a variety of applications.
Asset trackers have been useful when monitoring high-value equipment, renting or leasing machinery, shipping containers, managing delivery services, leasing cars, and other cases.
In general, an asset tracker is used to ensure the security of your company’s mobile inventory.
GPS Asset Tracking
Backed with GPS technology, asset tracking is a reliable method to secure, utilize and monitor your assets. There are other ways to track valuables, for example, QR tracking systems, or barcode and RFID tags, but these methods are better for accounting.
GPS asset tracking provides data that is more profound and therefore, derives greater detail your business can use to improve asset management.
Can asset trackers provide more than just their location?
The primary function of a tracker is to send its carrier location information, but the device itself is a transmitter, meaning it transfers any data the software can interpret. So, can asset trackers provide more than just their location? Yes, and no. The answer depends on the accessories that the trackers are combined with.
If you need more in-depth information about your cargo, or you are trying to improve the management of your fleet and deliveries, you might be interested in pairing your trackers with accessories.
The asset tracker accessories are usually used for two purposes, one being focused on the conditions of the cargo, the other on the vehicle that carries the asset (vehicle telematics). With the first type of accessories you can monitor the environment in which the asset is being held, for example, its humidity and temperature. The second type of accessories can form a variety of vehicle telematics systems and provide such information as driver identification, vehicle OBD, speed, braking and idling, etc.
What is GPS asset tracking: the technology
GPS asset trackers use the Global Positioning System to collect their carriers’ real-time location data. When a tracker is attached to an asset, it starts sending satellite signals to a receiver. A receiver then locates the device and computes the time and the velocity of its movement.
With GPS asset tracking, businesses gain visibility into their logistics processes, the location and utilization of their assets. Asset trackers are paired with a tracking software, so that users can get access to the information they need. Usually, the user interface is conveyed as a virtual design where each of your assets are mapped and you can follow them when they move in realtime.
Why use asset trackers?
In general, businesses use trackers to gain visibility into location and conditions of their cargo or high value assets.
Tracker devices can help reduce equipment upkeep costs by sending alerts when assets require maintenance, and optimize production chains by reporting machinery idling data, therefore reducing downtime. Combined with vehicle telematics, asset tracking can secure your cargo and improve delivery services.
So, why use asset trackers? By installing a tracking system all across your business, you invest in a better workplace environment, productivity of your employees, security of your assets and a better overall performance.