Introduction to Drawbacks of GPS Fleet Tracking Software
GPS fleet tracking software has significantly evolved, making it more accessible and affordable for businesses. While these systems offer numerous benefits, fleet managers should be aware of some drawbacks. These issues can affect the effectiveness of tracking and managing fleets, but the right solution can address them. In this article, we will explore common drawbacks of GPS fleet tracking and how to mitigate them for optimal fleet management.
What is GPS Fleet Tracking?
GPS fleet tracking software enables businesses to monitor their vehicles’ locations and oversee their activities in real-time. It provides insights into routes, fuel consumption, and driver behavior. By using sensors like accelerometers, gyros, and speed sensors, fleet managers can gain valuable data to ensure efficient operations.
Drawbacks of GPS Fleet Tracking Software
Like any technology, GPS fleet tracking software has its challenges. Let us examine the most common drawbacks of GPS fleet tracking.
#1. Incorrect Live Location
One of the most common drawbacks of GPS fleet tracking is that the software does not show vehicles’ correct locations. This typically occurs when a vehicle enters an area with weak or no GPS signal, such as remote locations, tunnels, or densely built areas.
How to overcome it: Many modern GPS tracking solutions, such as Navilap, offer a history playback feature. This allows managers to see the vehicle’s past locations when the live feed is inaccurate, reducing signal loss’s impact and ensuring proper tracking.
#2. Wrong Routes
Another issue that can arise from GPS fleet tracking is incorrect routing. Although satellites provide accurate time and location data, errors can occur that display the wrong routes to drivers. Gravitational pull can affect satellite positioning, and slight discrepancies in timing can affect route accuracy.
How to overcome it: Fleet managers can mitigate this by ensuring that the GPS integrates with route planning tools. These tools can help drivers follow the most efficient paths even if the GPS data contains minor errors.
#3. Poor Visibility
Low visibility is another significant drawback of GPS fleet tracking. Obstructions between the GPS device and the satellites, resulting from weather, terrain, or location, often cause this issue.
How to overcome it: To deal with this, look for GPS fleet tracking software that offers additional options such as historical data playback or tracking vehicles when they enter areas with better network coverage. This ensures data is captured, even in areas with poor signal strength.
#4. Fuel Monitoring Issues
Monitoring fuel efficiency is one of the most important benefits of GPS fleet tracking. However, a common drawback is that some systems fail to provide accurate fuel data or do not effectively track idling times, leading to wasted fuel.
How to overcome it: The best GPS fleet tracking solutions track fuel consumption and provide real-time alerts for excessive idling or speeding. With video telematics and efficient route management, fleet managers can take action to reduce fuel wastage.
#5. Timecard Reporting Challenges
In the past, drivers would manually report their hours, but many modern fleet tracking solutions include built-in timecard reporting systems. While this can reduce errors and ensure compliance, it can also be a challenge for employees who are unfamiliar with the technology.
How to overcome it: Training drivers to use the timecard reporting feature effectively can help overcome this drawback. By ensuring employees understand the benefits of automated time tracking, you can streamline operations and reduce manual reporting errors.
#6. Software Tampering
Another significant concern is the risk of software tampering. Drivers who want to avoid tracking can easily remove or tamper with some GPS devices, such as OBD trackers.
How to overcome it: Advanced GPS fleet tracking solutions now offer wireless 3G or 4G trackers that are harder to detect and tamper with. These systems can be discreetly installed in vehicles, ensuring continuous tracking without the risk of tampering.
Final Thoughts
Although GPS fleet tracking has drawbacks, modern software solutions help fleet managers address these issues. By selecting a GPS fleet tracking system like TrackoBit, which offers real-time location tracking, fuel monitoring, route planning, and anti-tampering capabilities, managers can minimize the risks associated with fleet management. Select the software that best matches your needs and helps you navigate challenges, ensuring the efficient operation of your fleet.
By understanding and addressing the drawbacks of GPS fleet tracking, fleet managers can fully take advantage of the technology and improve their fleets’ efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
Recommended Articles
We hope this guide helps you navigate the drawbacks of GPS fleet tracking and make the most of your fleet management system. Check out these recommended articles for more insights and strategies to enhance your fleet’s efficiency.
