How to Install a Car Tracker

Summary

Sources

brickhousesecurity.com

In the dynamic and ever-evolving industries of landscaping, logistics, and construction, the importance of safeguarding assets cannot be overstated. Trailers, often filled with valuable equipment and cargo, are integral to the daily operations of these businesses. Installing GPS trackers on trailers is a critical step in enhancing security, ensuring theft recovery, and improving the overall customer experience. One of the primary benefits of GPS trailer tracking is the added layer of security it provides. Businesses often make the mistake of assuming that a GPS tracker installed in a truck will automatically extend surveillance to the attached trailer. However, this is not the case. A GPS tracker in the truck will alert the owner if the vehicle itself is stolen, but if the trailer is detached and taken separately, there will be no alert. By investing in a separate GPS tracker for the trailer, businesses can monitor the trailer's real-time position and movements independently, ensuring immediate notifications in case of unauthorized detachment or movement. Theft recovery is another crucial advantage offered by GPS trailer trackers. In scenarios where trailers are stolen, having a GPS tracker installed can be the difference between quick recovery and complete loss. If thieves enter a company's yard and steal a trailer loaded with valuable equipment or cargo, the GPS tracker will notify the owner as soon as the trailer starts moving outside the designated timeframe or geofenced area. This real-time tracking allows the owner to monitor the trailer’s movements and guide law enforcement to its location swiftly, increasing the chances of recovering the stolen assets before they are offloaded or damaged. Furthermore, GPS trailer trackers significantly enhance the customer experience by providing real-time updates on the trailer’s location. For businesses in the landscaping or shipping sectors, being able to offer customers precise updates on the arrival time of crews or cargo is invaluable. GPS tracking solutions can send regular text or email updates with the trailer’s current position, planned route, and estimated time of arrival, ensuring customers are well-informed and satisfied with the service. Ultimately, the integration of GPS trailer tracking into business operations not only protects valuable assets but also streamlines processes and bolsters customer satisfaction. As the landscape of these industries continues to evolve, embracing technology like GPS trailer trackers will be essential for maintaining security, efficiency, and competitive edge. The necessity of GPS trackers for trailers extends beyond mere convenience; it is a fundamental component of modern asset management and security. In industries where trailers are regularly left unattended at job sites, business yards, or during transit, the risk of theft is a constant concern. GPS trackers play a crucial role in mitigating this risk by providing real-time alerts and advanced geofencing capabilities. One of the primary ways GPS trackers enhance security is through real-time alerts. These alerts can notify business owners or managers the moment a trailer is moved outside its designated area or timeframe. This immediate notification is critical, as it allows for rapid response to potential theft. For example, if a GPS tracker detects unexpected movement of a trailer in the middle of the night, an alert can be sent via text or email to the responsible parties. This prompt notification enables the business to take swift action, such as contacting law enforcement and providing them with the trailer’s precise location. Geofencing capabilities further bolster the security provided by GPS trackers. Geofencing allows businesses to establish virtual boundaries around specific areas where their trailers are expected to remain. If a trailer crosses these predefined boundaries, an alert is triggered, indicating possible unauthorized movement. This feature is particularly useful in preventing theft, as it provides an added layer of surveillance and control over the trailers' locations. Consider a scenario where a construction company has several trailers parked in its yard overnight. Despite having security measures in place, thieves manage to break in and steal one of the trailers loaded with expensive equipment. However, because the trailer is equipped with a GPS tracker, the moment it leaves the geofenced area, an alert is sent to the company’s management. The GPS tracker provides real-time updates on the trailer’s movements, enabling the company to track its exact location. Law enforcement is notified and, thanks to the continuous data from the GPS tracker, they are able to intercept the thieves and recover the stolen trailer and its contents swiftly. This scenario highlights the critical role GPS trackers play in theft recovery. Without the GPS tracker, the company would have had little to no information on the trailer’s whereabouts, significantly reducing the chances of recovery. The ability to provide law enforcement with accurate, real-time data is invaluable in such situations, often making the difference between recovering stolen assets and incurring significant financial losses. In addition to theft prevention and recovery, GPS trackers also offer operational benefits that contribute to overall business efficiency. Real-time tracking allows businesses to optimize routes, manage logistics more effectively, and ensure timely deliveries. This operational efficiency translates to improved service quality and customer satisfaction, as businesses can provide accurate updates and maintain reliable schedules. In conclusion, the integration of GPS trackers in trailers is essential for enhancing security, preventing theft, and ensuring the swift recovery of stolen assets. The advanced features of real-time alerts and geofencing provide businesses with the tools needed to protect their valuable equipment and cargo, ultimately supporting smoother operations and better customer service. As the landscape of industries such as landscaping, logistics, and construction continues to evolve, the adoption of GPS trailer tracking technology remains a critical step towards safeguarding assets and maintaining a competitive edge. When selecting a GPS trailer tracker, it is crucial for businesses to consider several key features that enhance both operational efficiency and security. These features ensure that the tracker not only meets the immediate needs of real-time monitoring but also withstands the various challenges posed by different working environments. One of the most important features to look for is waterproofing. Trailers often spend extended periods outdoors, exposed to harsh weather conditions. A waterproof GPS tracker ensures that the device continues to function and transmit data reliably, even in adverse weather. For instance, the EON X-Ray Long-Life Asset Tracker from BrickHouse Security is rated IP67, meaning it can withstand both water and dust. This level of durability is essential for maintaining continuous monitoring regardless of environmental conditions. Long battery life is another critical feature. Trailers may be idle for long periods or in constant use, and the GPS tracker must be able to operate efficiently in both scenarios. A tracker with a long battery life reduces the need for frequent maintenance and ensures uninterrupted tracking. For example, the Livewire Dash GPS Vehicle Tracker is designed to remain active by being wired directly into the vehicle’s power source, eliminating concerns about battery depletion. This setup guarantees continuous monitoring and enhances security by providing constant updates on the trailer’s location. Real-time tracking capabilities are vital for businesses that need frequent updates on their trailers’ movements and positions. The ability to receive updates every few seconds or minutes allows for precise monitoring and better decision-making. This feature is particularly useful for logistics companies that need to provide accurate ETAs to their customers. For instance, with real-time tracking, a shipping company can send regular updates to customers about the current position and expected delivery time of their cargo, improving customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Geofencing is another essential feature that significantly enhances security. By setting virtual boundaries around specific areas, businesses can receive alerts whenever a trailer crosses these boundaries. This feature is invaluable for preventing theft and unauthorized use. For example, a landscaping company can set a geofence around a job site, and if a trailer leaves this area unexpectedly, an alert is triggered. This immediate notification allows the company to take quick action, such as contacting authorities and tracking the trailer’s movements in real-time to facilitate recovery. Mobile app capabilities are also crucial for modern GPS trailer trackers. A dedicated mobile app allows businesses to access tracking data anytime, from anywhere. This feature is especially beneficial for businesses with mobile operations or remote management teams. For instance, a construction company can use the mobile app to monitor the locations of multiple trailers across various job sites, dispatch teams efficiently, and provide real-time updates to clients. The convenience and flexibility offered by mobile app capabilities enhance overall operational efficiency and responsiveness. In conclusion, when selecting a GPS trailer tracker, businesses should prioritize features such as waterproofing, long battery life, real-time tracking, geofencing, and mobile app capabilities. These features collectively ensure that the tracker remains functional in diverse conditions, provides continuous monitoring, enhances security, and improves operational efficiency. By choosing a tracker with these essential features, businesses can safeguard their valuable assets, optimize their operations, and deliver superior service to their customers. Now, let's review the top GPS trailer trackers available on the market, focusing on their features, pros, and cons, to provide a comprehensive guide for potential buyers. Each of these trackers offers unique capabilities that cater to different business needs, ensuring there is a suitable option for every operation. First on the list is the EON Odyssey. This tracker is known for its simplicity and versatility. It connects to the BrickHouse Security tracking platform via nationwide 4G cellular service, ensuring consistent connectivity. The EON Odyssey features a high-power magnet for easy deployment on steel surfaces and integrated strap loops for secure installation. Key features include motion alerts, geofencing, tamper alerts, and both current and historical location data. The main advantage of this tracker is its ease of use and robust feature set. However, its reliance on cellular service may be a limitation in areas with poor coverage. Next, the EON X-Ray Long-Life Asset Tracker from BrickHouse Security is another top contender. This tracker offers both GPS and Wi-Fi data transmission, making it highly flexible. Its batteries can last for more than half a decade, reducing maintenance needs. The EON X-Ray also provides motion alerts, geofencing, and tamper alerts. One of its standout features is that it does not require a subscription, which is a significant advantage compared to many competitors. Customer reviews highlight its reliability and ease of use, with one user noting, “We can now sleep better at night and have peace of mind knowing that our equipment is exactly where it needs to be.” However, it may be more expensive upfront compared to other options. The Livewire Dash GPS Vehicle Tracker offers extensive coverage across North America, operating on a reliable 4G network. It provides updates every sixty seconds, ensuring detailed monitoring. This tracker is hardwired into the vehicle's power source, eliminating battery concerns. Its main advantages are continuous monitoring and extensive coverage. However, the requirement for hardwiring may pose installation challenges for some users. The Orbcomm ST 9100 is renowned for its durability and ability to switch between satellite and cellular service based on need. This tracker has a long battery life and is easy to install. Its main advantage is its strong satellite coverage, even in remote areas. However, it comes with higher hardware costs and requires a long-term contract, which could be a drawback for some businesses. The GEOTAB GO9 is praised for its user-friendliness and rugged design. It offers both satellite and cellular data transmission, along with a reliable mobile app. Its main advantages are ease of use and comprehensive data transmission options. However, like the Orbcomm ST 9100, it requires a subscription, which might not be ideal for all users. Verizon Connect's asset trackers benefit from Verizon’s robust telecom network infrastructure, ensuring reliable data transmission. These trackers are well-suited for enterprise fleets and offer extensive coverage. However, customer reviews often cite difficulties with long-term contracts and negative experiences with customer service. One user described it as “the worst experience I have ever had,” highlighting the importance of considering customer service reputation when choosing a provider. Lastly, the CalAmp TTU-730 offers a rugged and weatherproof design with long battery life. It can alternate between satellite and cellular data transmission, ensuring consistent monitoring. However, the upfront fee covers three years of service, which may be a disadvantage for businesses not wanting to commit to a long-term solution. In summary, selecting the right GPS trailer tracker depends on a business’s specific needs and priorities. The EON Odyssey and EON X-Ray offer robust features without requiring a subscription, making them excellent choices for users seeking flexibility and long-term use. The Livewire Dash provides continuous monitoring, while the Orbcomm ST 9100 and GEOTAB GO9 offer strong satellite coverage and user-friendly interfaces. Verizon Connect is ideal for enterprise fleets but comes with potential contract challenges. Finally, the CalAmp TTU-730 is a reliable option for those needing a rugged, long-lasting solution. By carefully evaluating these options, businesses can choose the GPS trailer tracker that best meets their operational requirements and security needs, ensuring the protection and efficient management of their valuable assets.