Find out how much GPS tracking costs, including device prices, subscription fees, and installation costs. Explore options for fleet and vehicle GPS tracking in our blog!
How much does GPS tracking cost?
Vehicle GPS trackers serve various functions. They help you oversee routes and get real-time location data and alerts. You may have just one car or a large fleet of trucks or vans. Whatever your profile, everyone can benefit from GPS tracking devices. Naturally, vehicle tracking system price is the first point that comes to mind when thinking of installing these systems.
Factors That Influence GPS Tracking Costs
Explore the different factors that influence vehicle tracking system price.
GPS Trackers Types
There are different types of GPS trackers and your fleet GPS tracking cost depends on the one you choose. These devices can be classified into two main categories that cover the different options. These include:
By Application
- Vehicle GPS Trackers: These GSP tracking devices are used by both individuals and businesses. Companies use them for monitoring and tracking their fleets. These devices have advanced features such as geofencing, real-time tracking, fuel level sensing, and alerts. They can cost from $14 to $250 per vehicle per month.
- Asset GPS Trackers: These devices monitor valuable assets, including heavy machinery and equipment. Companies use them to stay on top of their inventory and to protect assets. The vehicle tracking system price for these types of devices ranges between $100 and $500.
- Handheld GPS Trackers: These devices are compact and are easy to carry around. They feature compasses and topographic maps to simplify navigation. They are commonly used by outdoor professionals and enthusiasts.
By Design
- Hardwired GPS Trackers: These devices are directly connected to the vehicle’s battery. They usually cost $250 to $350 and provide different types of alerts to keep you up-to-date with the vehicle’s status. These can be satellite and/or cellular-connected units and provide real-time GPS tracking.
- Magnetic GPS Trackers: If you prefer a low cost GPS tracker, consider a magnetic tracking device. These are battery-powered trackers and cost $20 to $200. Similar to their hardwired counterparts, magnetic trackers can send out real-time data using satellite or cellular data. These units are easier to set up and can be fixed anywhere in the vehicle.
- Plug-in GPS Trackers: This is another GPS tracker cheap option. These are available for prices between $40 and $150. They are designed to be plugged into the vehicle’s OBD port. These trackers have become widely popular because they are easy to install and use. They receive constant power from the OBD-II port and support real-time GPS tracking.
Look for a GPS tracker that fits your needs and budget. As mentioned above, any tracking solution offering real-time data will need a subscription to maintain cellular connectivity.
Subscription and Data Plans
While vehicle tracking system price is an important factor to consider, you will need all the features required for effective tracking and navigation. This means you will need subscription services and this will add to the overall cost. Some of the common subscription services used in this industry include:
Mapping Updates
Live traffic and mapping updates are common subscription services for GPS tracking. These updates help you stay up-to-date with information on:
- Traffic jams
- Road closures
- Any other route obstacle
Mapping updates provide detailed and accurate maps. Live traffic services enable you to avoid congestion and delays.
The cost of these services depends on the device manufacturer and the service level offered. While some offer an annual fee, others provide these services for free. Before you purchase a GPS tracker, it is important to know about the overall fleet GPS tracking cost. These services can increase the overall cost of ownership by a significant margin.
GPS Tracking Systems: Average Costs
The average costs for basic and advanced GPS trackers are as follows:
Basic GPS Trackers
When you choose a GPS tracker with basic functionality, you can find options starting from just $10 a month. Systems that provide detailed tracking data are generally focused on businesses. They can cost in the $20 and $40 a month over the initial cost of the device. A basic tracking device model can cost around $50.
Advanced GPS Trackers
More advanced GPS tracking devices can cost around $300. Besides this initial cost, you can expect to spend on monthly or annual subscriptions for data plans and real-time tracking. These subscription charges can cost up to $40 a month.
Many GPS trackers are available with a host of extra features. Features such as geofencing, activity monitoring, and alerts can increase the cost of GPS tracker for car while offering significant value.
GPS Trackers: Additional Costs
Besides the device’s price and subscription fees, the cost of ownership for a GPS tracking device can include the following cost factors:
GPS Trackers: Installation Fees
The initial installation fees depends on the type of device involved. If it is a plug-in unit, installation is easy and quick. You will not need professional help. Even you can install the device. On the other hand, hardwired GPS trackers require a professional to install and wire the device to the vehicle’s electrical system. The labor cost for installation can range from $50 to $250. You should also expect extra costs for mounting accessories.
Maintenance and Software Upgrades
The maintenance costs can also vary significantly based on the GPS system. When it comes to plug-and-play devices, all the maintenance you will require is periodic software updates. These devices may also require battery replacement once every few years.
There are different types of GPS tracking systems. While some are just hardware-based, others require a combination of both hardware and software. The vehicle tracking system price for a solely hardware-based solution is limited to upfront costs. A software-based system usually costs low initially. However, the subscription and maintenance costs add up and increase the overall cost of ownership over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I buy a GPS tracker for my car?
Yes, you can purchase a GPS tracker for your own car. Both basic and advanced models are available and you can choose based on your unique needs and preference for features.
Q. How much does it cost to run a GPS tracker?
The monthly cost of GPS tracker for car can range from $10 to $40 based on the type and features.
Q. How much does it cost to make a GPS tracker?
A hardwired GPS tracker can cost around $250 while a plug-and-play tracking device can cost about $150.