What Is Asset Tracking?

2025-01-13

Track Your Valuables

Asset tracking refers to systems used to monitor and manage equipment, often high-value assets like generators, tools, or off-highway vehicles (OHVs), using technologies such as GPS tracking devices, barcodes, or RFID tags. The primary goal is to enhance the security and efficiency of a company’s physical assets.

GPS Asset Tracking

Assets tracked with GPS devices provide more comprehensive data compared to solutions that use QR codes, barcodes, or RFID tags. While barcode labels and NFC tags require specialized handheld scanners and are typically used for managing serial numbers or IT assets in accounting and inventory, GPS tracking offers a dynamic alternative.

With GPS tracking, assets transmit their location via cellular or satellite networks—or a combination of both (dual-mode)—to ensure uninterrupted reporting, even when assets move beyond cellular coverage.

GPS tracking devices can either be self-powered (with long-lasting batteries) or hardwired to an asset’s power source. Reporting intervals can range from near real-time (every 2 minutes) to hourly, daily, or less frequent check-ins, depending on the use case or battery life requirements.

The collected data is then visualized on a map using GPS tracking software, which provides additional reporting and alerts to help locate, secure, and maintain equipment.

Benefits of GPS Asset Tracking

Asset tracking systems offer several advantages that can significantly benefit your business:

Enhanced Maintenance Scheduling: Receive engine hour alerts to schedule preventive maintenance for equipment like generators, extending their lifecycle.
Reduced Downtime: Monitor equipment utilization to ensure assets aren’t sitting idle, allowing you to allocate resources more effectively.
Centralized Data Management: Integrate GPS asset tracking with vehicle tracking to view your entire fleet—vehicles, equipment, and personnel—on a single dashboard, accessible via web or mobile app (iOS/Android).
Improved Security: Set up geofence alerts to receive notifications when valuable equipment leaves a designated area, reducing theft and unauthorized use.