Learn about GPS tracking system costs, including initial device pricing, monthly subscription fees, and installation expenses. Get insights into fleet management system pricing and features.
Pricing guide on a GPS tracking system
GPS fleet tracking systems help you to keep track of your fleet’s location. They also gather valuable data on each vehicle in your fleet. This includes data such as GPS location, speed, distance covered, fuel usage, and driving behavior. Fleet GPS tracking system costs can vary based on factors such as the fleet size, system type, software, and the provider. Cost is an important factor when it comes to choosing the right GPS tracking system for your fleet.
If you are looking for affordable GPS tracking systems for your fleet, this guide can certainly benefit you.
Factors affecting GPS tracking system costs
The biggest factors that affect your truck GPS tracking system price include hardware, software, and subscription fees.
Hardware vs. software costs
All GPS tracking systems can be primarily hardware or software-based or they can have both components. Hardware-based systems generally feature physical devices that you should purchase and install.
On the other hand, software-based systems can work with your existing devices including smartphones. The installation part is focused on a tracking application.
You can expect to spend more upfront on the hardware-based systems because you will have to acquire a new hardware system. The software-based component however requires ongoing subscription fees.
Monthly subscription fees
Certain systems require GPS tracker subscription fees that provide access to advanced features, real-time tracking data, and reporting tools. These charges can vary based on the service provider you choose, the features, and the data plan required for connectivity.
Subscription fees are usually processed on a monthly or annual basis. The fee can vary from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars a year. The amount depends on the provider, your requirements, features, and a few other factors.
Average costs for different types of GPS tracking systems
When comparing average fleet GPS tracking systems cost for different systems, it is best to take basic and advanced systems into account.
Basic vehicle GPS trackers
The cost of affordable GPS tracking systems starts from around $50 for basic models. When it comes to monthly subscription fees that involve tracking systems and data plans, you can expect the price to range between $10 and $40 a month.
Advanced fleet management systems
Advanced fleet management systems having feature-rich devices can cost $300 or more. When you choose a subscription model, you can expect reliable tracking software to have GPS tracker subscription fees in the range of $25 and $45 per vehicle, per month.
If your fleet comprises trucks or other large vehicles, the truck GPS tracking system price can be up to $499 per vehicle on a monthly basis. However, you should expect the fees to vary between different service providers. Still, the following list summarizes what to expect for different fleet management software:
- Entry-Level Systems: From $14 a month
- Mid-Level Systems: $25 to $45 a month
- Premium Systems: $100 a month
Installation and setup costs
Whether you choose to install the system yourself or with professional help, will also affect your truck GPS tracking system price.
Self-install vs. professional installation
Your fleet tracking system installation cost can vary based on how complex your GPS tracking solution is. While many systems involve simple plug-and-play devices and you can install them on your own, others require professional assistance. Professional installation will naturally add to the overall cost.
When it comes to professional installation, you should seek a high-quality job. Choose an installer experienced and certified in installing tracking devices.
Additional features and their impact on cost
There are a few more important features that affect your GPS tracking and Telematics pricing. These include:
Real-time tracking and alerts
Real-time tracking sends you timely notifications whenever an unexpected or unplanned event takes place. For example, fleet managers will receive instant notifications when a vehicle moves out of the zone.
Geofencing features can help you track your vehicles in real-time. This can help you maintain control over your fleet, which can lead to improved performance and optimized revenue.
The ability to monitor your fleet’s location in real-time can significantly increase safety and security. Additional features, such as distress signals and speed alerts can further help create a safer operational environment.
When it comes to truck GPS tracking system price, real-time GPS trackers are more expensive compared to their passive counterparts. This is due to the hardware and technology solutions required for data transmission. The cost further increases due to the GPS tracker subscription fees.
Maintenance
Maintenance cost is an important factor that adds to the fleet GPS tracking systems cost of ownership. Over time, your devices may require repairs, replacements, and software upgrades. Software updates will be required to ensure the system keeps working optimally while providing accurate tracking information. Even hardware-based systems will require regular maintenance, such as repairs and battery replacements.
Cost of connectivity
Real-time tracking and alerts rely on connectivity. So, truck GPS tracking system price should also include connectivity costs. You will need satellite or cellular service to ensure reliable data transmission. The cost here can vary based on what communication technology is used.
How to choose the right GPS tracking system for your budget?
While you will have a fixed budget that defines the fleet tracking system installation cost you can afford to bear, you can ensure that you are getting the most features for it. Here is a list of features you can prefer looking for within your budget:
- Live map-based tracking: This can help you keep track of your vehicle and workforce while ensuring they are always on the assigned route.
- Route optimization: This feature, integrated into the fleet management software, allows you to select the optimal route. This helps ensure time and cost savings by minimizing the distance covered and fuel used.
- Geofencing: This feature allows you to create virtual boundaries and get alerts whenever a vehicle enters or leaves the marked zones.
- Integration capabilities: Look for tracking systems that can integrate with your internal ERP, accounting, and CRM software.
Conclusion
Besides checking out these features, you should choose a versatile tracking provider. They should provide different devices and solutions to track your vehicles and equipment using the same platform. The system should also have reporting capabilities that meet your requirements.
Further, it will help you choose a provider that offers on-boarding support. Better training resources and customer support can help you and your team work more productively. User-friendly interface, scalability, and advanced data privacy and security are additional features you should consider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the additional costs beyond the GPS device?
Some of the additional costs beyond the GPS hardware device include GPS tracker subscription fees, installation costs, cellular data costs, extra features, and integrations.
Q. Can I install the GPS tracker myself?
Yes, you can install the GPS tracker yourself, but the feasibility depends on the system type and your skills in working with the vehicle’s wiring. While some systems are designed for plug-and-play installation, others need hardwiring.
Q. Is there a free trial available for GPS tracking systems
Yes, certain service providers do offer free trials for their GPS tracking systems.