Using construction equipment tracking devices is the best way to ensure your job sites stay protected all day and night. Thefts of valuable equipment from even well-lit locations still cost the construction industry over $1 billion a year across the US, and the recovery rate for heavy machinery without a GPS tracking device is a very low 21%.
GPS tracking has come a long way and is now a very accessible option. Whether you're an individual seeking to protect your private assets or you're a company looking to lower their insurance costs (yes, construction equipment trackers often help with that), the benefits of GPS tracking are not to be passed over.
WHAT IS A GPS TRACKING SYSTEM?
"GPS" stands for Global Positioning System. It's a way of locating and tracking objects such as a car, person, equipment, etc. The simplest way it works is when a tracking device with a GPS receiver is attached to some item, and it records locations at set intervals.
It can get much more complicated and high-tech than that, but the idea remains the same. GPS tracking uses more than 30 satellites already in orbit to locate objects and collect continuous data on the movement of said objects. This information can be stored or - assuming the correct equipment is set up - sent to a person to be used at their discretion.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GETTING A GPS TRACKER FOR CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT TRACKING?
You've probably heard a lot of people and companies tell you that installing GPS trackers is the only right thing to do, but you might not know why. Allow this article to be the piece that finally clears this up.
INCREASES EMPLOYEE ACCOUNTABILITY
GPS tracking can do so much more than just point to locations on a map. Certain technology can tell you specifics, such as if a driver suddenly starts or stops or if they take a turn too wide. This extra layer of accountability reminds operators to stay safe, and it allows supervisors and owners to encourage coaching or further training when necessary.
You can monitor when vehicles are being operated and sync the data with logged hours. These devices can also often monitor onboard maintenance needs and diagnostics. This way, you can handle problems before they come up!
MINIMIZES EQUIPMENT THEFT
In most cases, thieves aren't looking for difficulty. They're not very likely to attempt a hijack if they know there's a GPS tracker installed. In the event that they go through with it, you're much more likely to retrieve stolen equipment if you have the aid of GPS tracking.
For example, in Mississippi, most construction equipment doesn't have GPS tracking, and the recovery rate is on the low end at 21%. However, in Washington state, most equipment has GPS tracking, and the recovery rate is just under 80%! As you can see, it makes a noticeable difference.
INCREASE EFFICIENCY
If employees know that their performance is being monitored, they're more likely to stick to the recommended uses for a vehicle. You'll be able to maintain time with more consistency to avoid project delays and prevent carelessness that wastes time and damages equipment, and you might see a large uptick in fuel efficiency.
GAIN REAL-TIME VISIBILITY OF YOUR ASSETS
According to the 2020 National Construction Payment Report, somewhere around 70% of construction jobs end up past their deadlines and over budget. A lot of the reason for this is how difficult it is to keep track of assets.
This includes equipment, employees, and funds. If you can track how things are being used, you will find that it's much easier to know where the money is going and how to better utilize it.
ALWAYS KNOW YOUR EQUIPMENT LOCATION
Site managers with GPS tracking technology at their disposal are much more able to keep things running smoothly. They know where equipment is at all times and are able to prevent any personal use or distractions.
Personal vehicle use wastes time and can prevent insurance from paying out if anything happens. Most insurance companies won't cover damages to the site or equipment if it's found that the operator was using the equipment for reasons other than the company's.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT GPS TRACKERS FOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT
Look for trackers that offer the following features:
- Real-Time Tracking: Instead of trackers that only ping a location every so often, choose devices that can show you what's going on at all times.
- Weather Resistance and Durability: All tracking devices must be able to withstand harsh conditions. They will likely be exposed to all the elements, including extreme temperatures, dust, mud, water, direct sun, and so on. The best way to ensure reliability is to get something that will endure.
- Geofencing Capability: Ensure your equipment stays where it's supposed to by setting up alerts that let you know when certain boundaries are crossed.
- Ease of Installation: While this isn't a necessity in all cases, it is nice. Be sure to look at how complex the installation is before you purchase any tracker.
- Battery Life: If your tracker doesn't have a constant supply of power, a long battery life is crucial. Some trackers have battery lives that last up to a couple of years!
ARE GPS TRACKING SYSTEMS WORTH IT?
We think the data speaks loudly on this point. Protecting your equipment and employees is the smart move on so many levels that, yes! Implementing GPS tracking into your business and/or personal lives is very worth it.
CONCLUSION
GPS tracking is so important to the health and success of your practice. It's one of the most efficient, cost-effective ways of protecting everyone involved, from the highest official to the boots on the ground. Apply what you know now that you've read this article and think about the long run. Don't take unnecessary risks by waiting any longer. Shop for reliable GPS trackers today!
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