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Which Type of Vehicle Tracking Device is the Best?
In this day and age, it is so remarkably hard to choose which vehicle tracking device is best; in the past, your options were limited. However, nowadays there are mobile apps that have completely transformed the sphere of fleet management. This is especially handy in government or commercial fleets.
With modern technology, many jobs have been made much easier. Fleet management is definitely one of many jobs as such. It is important to make sure you are using the best type of vehicle tracking device that suits you and your capabilities best (including your budget and your fleet models). If you want to know how to figure this out, keep reading below. This article will explain the different types of vehicle tracking devices. It will also explain the benefits of each option and how to know which one suits you best.
Different Types of Vehicle Tracking Devices and their Features
Here is a complete and in-depth list of the three main options you can choose from when it comes to vehicle tracking devices.
Three-wire manual system
As for choosing the best vehicle tracking device, naming the best option is quite difficult. However, if you were to name the least preferable option it would definitely have to be a system that is manually wired into your vehicle. This three-wire system is, for the most part, considered obsolete. Some people may still prefer it, especially if their vehicle is relatively old. However, we do not recommend it for a number of reasons, including its difficult installation process, its hardwiring, and its outdated features.
Plug and play (PNP)
PNP (plug and play) is one of the better solutions that has been around for a long time. This solution is one of the best in a lot of ways. It is actually one of the most preferred by the majority and it is considered the best in many cases.
A PNP system plugs straight into the diagnostic port of the vehicle. They are the number one option for vehicles made post-2008. PNP systems are usually easy to install and therefore will not waste any more of your time with unnecessarily complicated wiring in installation. With this option, you can get started with GPS tracking right away and without a moment to lose.
This, in addition to some other reasons, is why PNP systems are preferred by many in a lot of circumstances. PNP systems do have their downsides as well though.
Old vehicles are not compatible overall with this option. Also, OBD-II ports in lightweight vehicles are visible. A small amount of exerted force (even unintentional) from someone’s legs getting in or out of the vehicle is enough to loosen the device from its exposed place. Additional cables also increase the amount of intricacy when it comes to the installation. If you want to avoid these issues, then look at the next option.
Mobile application
Mobile-based tracking apps are also an incredibly viable alternative to PNP systems. A lot of businesses prefer this to other options. If you want a simple solution without resorting to hardwiring or PNP, then this is the option for you.
Mobile apps are the cheapest option, obviously. This makes them preferable to anyone who does not have an excessive budget to invest in a PNP device. In addition to saving money, apps allow you full-time accessibility through your phone. GPS tracking is a better option than vehicle tracking devices for those reasons. They are also entirely simple to use and highly flexible.
The only downside is that mobile phones are not too reliable. They can turn off or lag, and so on. They also cannot provide comprehensive insight into your vehicle; so you’ll only get the basics such as speed and location.
What is the Best Vehicle Tracking Device?
With all of the above being said, it is safe to say that there is not only one “best” vehicle tracking device. It is clear that each option has its perks and everyone is free to pick and choose what they need based on certain criteria.
If the vehicle in question does not contain an OBDII port, then a hardwired device is the way to go. If you will be requiring input monitoring and so on, you will also need a hardwired system as well.
If your budget is limited, and you will only be needing basic info on speed and location, a mobile app will be the best option for you. This will help in basic GPS fleet tracking and management.
If you are in charge of a fleet management business, then you will surely understand how much of a hassle the job can be. From tracking to documenting, this job requires many difficult tasks. If you plan on doing these tasks manually, then you are surely going to lose a lot of time, as well as money. This is why we recommend outsourcing with a highly reliable fleet management software system to help you in conducting all of these demanding tasks.
When getting a vehicle tracking software system for your fleet business, consider going with one of the following options that we recommend.
Recommended Fleet Management Software
Here are some of the most excellent Fleet Tracking software.
1. Samsara
Samsara is our topmost recommendation, as it is the best. It gives you the most inclusive fleet tracking software and has some of the best features you can find. Samsara is truly one of the best options out there and below are some of the most important reasons why.
Some of Samsara's best features include the following:
- dispatch tools and integrated routes
- customized reports
- fuel management
- workflows maintenance
- fleet tracking apps for mobiles
- dash cams
- integrations and more
As for its prices, Samsara does not advertise them. Instead, it offers businesses quoted-based prices depending on their vehicle types, required services, and so on. To get a price, visit their official website and fill in your info. They should get in touch with you soon after.
Get Started With Samsara
2. Rhino Fleet Tracking
Rhino is our second recommendation for you! It also comes with some of the best features for your fleet tracking and management business. Some of Rhino Fleet Tracking's most important features include the following:
- fleet tracking in real-time
- optimization of routes
- geo-fencing
- E-logs
- equipment tracking
- dash cams
- integrations and more
Rhino is also quote-based in pricing. You can get a custom quote for your business depending on size, needs, and vehicle. You can call Rhino's team by phone at 866-486-4439. You can also email them at [email protected] to give them the info about your fleet business. You can be sure to expect an offer with a great price.
3. Azuga
Azuga comes in third place on our software recommendation list. It offers great GPS fleet management solutions, some of which include:
- Fleet tracking
- Optimization of routes
- Scheduled maintenance
- Asset tracking
- Rewards for drivers
- Management of field service
- Feet sustainability and safety
- eLogs
- Dash cams
Azuga offers three plans for its fleet tracking software, but their prices are not advertised. Below is a brief description of each plan. However, to get a price, you need to get in touch with their team, and they will create a custom plan and package that best fits your business.
BasicFleet Plan
The BasicFleet plan includes core vehicle tracking features plus driver scoring and rewards. Its features include:
- GPS Tracking
- Alerts and Notifications
- Driver Scores
- Driver Rewards
- Reports
- Geofence
- Unlimited phone, email, and web-based support
- Dual-facing HD camera
SafeFleet Plan
This plan includes everything in the BasicFleet plan, plus the must-have safety features and efficiency-boosting tools, such as:
- SpeedSafe
- Distracted Driving
- Panic Alert
- Vehicle Diagnostics
- Scheduled Maintenance
- Trip Logs and Tags
- Fuel Card Integrations
- API Integrations
- TrackMe
- Occupant Recognition
- Messaging
CompleteFleet Plan
The Complete plan includes everything in the previous plans, in addition to:
- Azuga Coach
- Fuel-Saver
- One-minute Tracking
- Custom Reports
- Quarterly Fleet Review
- Concierge Support