Key Takeaways
Optimising every asset in your fleet is crucial for maintaining profitability and efficiency. Trailers, which are often independent and can be towed by different tractor units, create unique challenges for tracking and management. The solution? GPS trailer tracking that always keeps you informed of your assets' location, condition and usage.
But what's the best GPS tracker for trailers? We've created this comprehensive guide to help you learn about the technology and find the best solution for your business. Whether you're exploring trailer tracking for the first time or considering an upgrade to a more advanced system, this guide will walk you through the essential features and benefits while comparing the different solutions available today.
Table of Contents
What Are Trailer Trackers?
Trailer trackers are GPS-enabled devices designed to monitor trailer location, movement, maintenance and usage. Unlike standard vehicle trackers, trailer trackers are built to operate independently of a vehicle's power supply. They often come with features like extended battery life and the ability to withstand harsh conditions. These devices are typically mounted directly on trailers and relay information to fleet managers on customisable frequencies to ensure that trailers are accounted for and used efficiently.
Whether you manage box vans, flatbeds, refrigerated trailers, curtain siders, lowboy trailers, or tankers, trailer trackers provide crucial visibility into your assets. This visibility is critical to optimise efficiency, reduce theft, and improve maintenance scheduling.
The Benefits of GPS Trailer Tracking
Implementing GPS trailer tracking technology can offer a range of significant benefits that directly impact your fleet’s performance and bottom line. Here are some of the business advantages you can expect to see.
- Improved Trailer GPS trailer trackers allow fleet managers to identify underutilised trailers. By reallocating idle trailers, companies can maximize use and avoid unnecessary rental costs.
- Enhanced Security. Real-time tracking helps prevent theft and unauthorised use. Geofencing capabilities enable managers to create virtual boundaries and receive instant alerts if a trailer crosses these boundaries.
- Optimised Maintenance Planning. With the ability to monitor key metrics like mileage and inspection frequency, trailer trackers facilitate proactive maintenance scheduling, reducing unexpected breakdowns and extending trailer lifespan.
- Transparency and Customer Satisfaction. GPS trailer tracking boosts customer trust with real-time shipment updates and billing transparency for detention costs.
GPS trailer tracking is more than just a tool for keeping tabs on your trailers. It is a comprehensive solution that can drive efficiency, enhance security, and contribute to more effective operations. With these benefits in mind, it's clear why more fleet operators are integrating trailer tracking into their fleet management solutions as they continue to focus on digital transformation initiatives.
Who Needs Trailer Tracking Devices?
Trailer tracking devices are essential for a wide range of businesses, particularly in the transportation, logistics, and supply chain industries. Companies managing large fleets of trailers can struggle with tracking, asset utilisation, and security. GPS trailer tracking solutions provide real-time visibility, helping businesses optimise trailer use, improve route planning, and prevent theft.
For fleet managers, trailer tracking addresses several critical pain points. For example, underutilised trailers sitting idle at job sites or storage yards can now be easily identified and reallocated, improving operational efficiency. Real-time alerts about unauthorised movement can also help ensure trailer security, while geofencing technology can trigger warnings if trailers exit designated zones. Maintenance management is also made easier with tracking solutions that monitor mileage, engine hours, and other vital data, allowing businesses to proactively service their trailers and avoid costly downtime. Whether you’re a third-party logistics provider or a company managing your own fleet, trailer tracking ensures smoother operations and better cost control.
Selecting the Right Trailer Tracking Device
When selecting a trailer tracker, it is essential to consider how specific features align with your operational needs. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, meaning your "best" option often depends on your industry. By aligning the features of these devices with your operational requirements, you can select a trailer tracker that enhances efficiency, improves security, and ensures your trailers are always accounted for.
Choosing the right trailer tracker involves evaluating numerous factors to ensure the device and software meets your specific needs. Here are some key considerations:
- Power Source. Trailer trackers can be battery-powered or solar-powered. Battery-powered devices are ideal for trailers that may be stationary for long periods, while solar-powered devices are better suited for trailers that are frequently in motion and require regular location updates.
- Durability. Trailers are often exposed to harsh environmental conditions. Ensure your tracker is rugged and weatherproof, ideally with an IP67 rating to protect against dust and water.
- Update Frequency. You may require real-time updates or less frequent location reporting, depending on your operational needs. Some devices offer adjustable update frequencies, allowing you to balance battery life with the need for timely information.
- Installation. Look for devices that are easy to install and, if necessary, can be easily transferred between trailers. Simple installation reduces downtime and eliminates the need for professional installation services.
For more detailed information, see our article on how to choose the best GPS tracker for trailers.
Battery-Powered Trackers
Teletrac Navman offers a range of battery-powered tracking devices that can be configured to provide location updates at the intervals your operations require. These devices are built to withstand rugged conditions, are easy to install, and offer long battery life, making them ideal for both trailers with frequent movement and those that remain stationary for extended periods.
One standout option is the AT301, a versatile, battery-powered tracker designed for long-term use across a variety of trailers. With up to 10 years of battery life, the AT301 is particularly well-suited for trailers that may not always be in motion, such as those parked at job sites or used for storage. Its durable IP67-rated housing ensures the device can endure harsh environments, protecting it from dust, water, and extreme temperatures—making it a great fit for industries like construction, where trailers are exposed to tough conditions.
The AT301 also features movement-based tracking, meaning it provides location updates when the trailer moves and at set intervals when it is in motion. This capability is ideal for businesses needing a reliable solution to monitor trailers that may sit idle for long periods but still require accurate, real-time tracking when in use. Whether you're managing trailers that move frequently or assets that are less active, Teletrac Navman has the battery-powered tracking solutions to meet your needs.
Solar-Powered Trackers
Teletrac Navman's solar-powered tracking devices are specifically designed for non-powered trailers that require frequent location updates. These devices offer customisable update intervals, ensuring consistent tracking for assets in motion, while the built-in battery backup keeps the tracker operational when solar power is limited, making them ideal for trailers that are constantly on the move.
The ST101 is a solar-powered GPS tracker that excels in high-frequency update scenarios, perfect for trailers in industries such as logistics and transport. This tracker is designed to provide consistent, real-time location updates, ensuring that fleet managers always have an accurate view of their trailers. With a built-in battery backup, the ST101 remains operational even in low-light conditions, offering a battery life of 5 to 7 years.
Easy installation options, such as bolts, screws, or magnets, make the ST101 adaptable to a wide variety of trailer types, including those without an internal power source. Whether managing long-haul freight or frequently moving trailers, ST101 provides a reliable solution for continuous tracking, ensuring trailers are always accounted for, no matter the conditions.
Trailer Tracker Software Features
While it is important to select the right trailer tracking device, the software that supports them is equally important. The software platform you select should offer features that enhance the overall utility of the tracking devices.
Location and Tracking Features
Customisable location tracking is essential, providing up-to-date information on trailer locations to help optimize planning and improve utilisation. Additionally, geofencing capabilities allow you to set virtual boundaries around specific areas, triggering alerts when a trailer enters or exits these zones. This feature is particularly valuable for managing detention costs and preventing unauthorized movements.
Maintenance and Insights
Maintenance scheduling and alerts are another critical feature, enabling you to schedule inspections and maintenance events based on distance traveled or time intervals. This proactive approach ensures that your trailers remain in top condition to reduce the likelihood of unexpected downtime. Comprehensive reporting and analytics capabilities also contribute to the overall effectiveness of the software. By offering detailed insights into trailer usage, maintenance needs, and site dwell time, the software allows you to make data-driven decisions that directly improve your operational efficiency.
Easy Integrations
Integrating with your existing fleet management tools is a crucial component of an effective system. Seamless integration ensures that all your data is centralized, providing a complete view of your fleet operations. This approach simplifies asset management and enhances your ability to monitor and control your fleet by offering a complete operational picture.
Why Choose Teletrac Navman
When it comes to selecting a trailer tracking solution, our offerings stand out thanks to our comprehensive range of devices, advanced TN360 platform and commitment to our customers.
Proven Device Performance
We offer multiple trailer tracking device options to meet your needs. Whether you are looking to optimize your trailer usage, enhance security or streamline your operations, we have what you need. Our devices are built for durability and longevity even under the harshest conditions.
Advanced Software Platform
The TN360 platform sets Teletrac Navman apart from the competition. It offers a complete suite of tools necessary to manage a trailer fleet effectively. From real-time tracking and geofencing to maintenance management and detailed reporting, TN360 is designed to be user-friendly while delivering powerful insights.
One Tool for Comprehensive Fleet Management
At Teletrac Navman, we provide more than just trailer tracking solutions. Our approach to fleet management means that you can manage a wide range of assets including vehicles, construction equipment, and other remote assets from a single platform. This integrated approach simplifies operations and ensures that all data is centralized, giving you a complete overview of your fleet.
Industry-Leading Support
With over 30 years of experience, we’re committed to setting you up for success. We offer dedicated support and professional services to ensure that you get the most out of your investment. From installation to ongoing management, our team is here to help you navigate any challenges that arise.
For a closer look at how our products and services compare, visit the trailer tracking products page.
Trailer Tracker FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about trailer tracking to help you choose a GPS trailer tracker.
- Trailer trackers typically offer location accuracy within a few feet, depending on the GPS signal and update frequency.
- Most trailer trackers are designed for easy installation, using screws, zip ties, or adhesive tape, allowing for quick deployment.
- GPS trailer trackers operate via satellite or cellular networks, providing coverage over vast distances without a traditional range limit.
- Battery life varies by device and update frequency, with some offering up to 7 years of battery life.
- Yes, most trailer trackers include geofencing features that allow you to set boundaries and receive alerts when those boundaries are crossed.
- Many trailer trackers can operate internationally, but it's important to confirm that the device supports the necessary networks in your region.
- Yes, most solutions offer mobile apps for real-time access to location data, alerts, and other critical information.
- Fleet management software platforms allow for the simultaneous tracking of multiple trailers, with data accessible through a single dashboard.
- Trailer trackers offer a range of data, including location, speed, engine hours, maintenance alerts, and geofencing status.
- Yes, depending on the device type you can customize the frequency of updates for when a trailer is stationary or in motion. Solar tracking devices can have updates rates at 1-minute intervals while retaining long battery life.
Related Services
Teletrac Navman also offers a range of services to complement your trailer tracking solution, including:
Get More Information About GPS Trailer Tracking
Selecting the right solution is essential for optimising your fleet operations. By understanding the features and benefits of different devices and software platforms, you can make an informed decision that best suits your business needs. Contact our team today for more detailed information on trailer tracking options and to explore how these solutions can benefit your fleet.
What are trailer trackers?
Trailer trackers are GPS-enabled devices designed to monitor trailer location, movement, maintenance and usage. Unlike standard vehicle trackers, trailer trackers are built to operate independently of a vehicle's power supply. They often come with features like extended battery life and the ability to withstand harsh conditions. These devices are typically mounted directly on trailers and relay information to fleet managers on customisable frequencies to ensure that trailers are accounted for and used efficiently. Trailer trackers are often used for:
- Real-time location tracking
- Movement / Geofence alerting for theft protection
- Utilisation monitoring and fleet rightsizing
- Maintenance planning
Why are businesses investing in trailer tracking?
Implementing GPS trailer tracking can offer a range of significant benefits that directly impact your fleet’s performance and bottom line. Here are some of the key benefits business are seeing:
- Trailer utilisation - improve trailer utilisation by strategically locating trailers to align with workload
- Maintenance management - simplify maintenance processes with digitised inspections and maintenance scheduling
- Mange detention charges - provide customers with complete transparency for detention charges
- Theft prevention - reduce theft with real-time movement or geofence exit alerts
What should you look for?
Understanding your specific use case is important and helpful when you're determining what trailer tracking device fits your needs. When you're reviewing your options, ensure the trailer tracker has these key features:
- Ruggedized design built for external installation
- Customisable update rates
- Stationary / in-transit update frequencies
- Geofence exit and motion alerting
- Integrated inspection and maintenance tools
Compare Trailer Trackers
Find the perfect trailer tracking device
Asset Tracker - AT301
Ruggedized battery-powered GPS asset tracker for powered and non-powered assets.
- Compact device perfect for placing on assets of all sizes
- Long battery life that lasts up to 10 years
- Easy to self-install
- Future-proofed with dual 4G LTE-M1 and NB-IoT network
- IP68 rated
Physical Specifications
Size: 108mm Height, 86mm
Width, 31mm Depth
Asset Tracker - AT401
Battery-powered ruggedized GPS asset tracker for use inside and outside.
- Tracks both powered and non-powered assets
- Rugged housing to withstand harsh environments
- Extended battery life
- Easy to self-install
- Wi-Fi access point scanning for enhanced connectivity
- IP68 / IK07 rated
Physical Specifications
Size: 149mm Height, 51mm
Width: 21mm Depth
Asset Tracker - AT551
Ruggedised GPS-enabled telematics device with bluetooth functionality.
- Compact and rugged design
- Extended battery life for assets requiring high update frequency
- Tracks both powered and non-powered assets
- Easy to self-install
- Bluetooth 5.2 Gateway
- IP68 / IK07 rated
Physical Specifications
Size: 224mm Height, 91mm Width, 41mm Depth
Trailer Tracking Software
Trailer tracking software brings the data from your trailers and vehicles into one, powerful solution. Our TN360 software platform works with a wide range of trailer tracking devices giving you visibility across all of your trailers and assets in one application. Through easy to use dashboards, detailed reporting and interactive mapping you can access the critical data you need at any time. Key software feature include:
- Geofence exit and movement alerts
- Inspection and maintenance workflows
- Site dwell time reporting
- Utilisation reporting
Trailer Tracking Software
Turn data into decisions and optimize your operation
Interactive Map
See asset location and key insight through an interactive map
Advanced Dashboards
Easy to use dashboards covering productivity, safety and utilisation
Maintenance Scheduling
Digitize inspections and maintenance with our app and maintenance planning tool
In-transit Tracking
Set your device to increase update frequency when trailers are in transit
Mobile App
Access all data through a mobile application
Recovery Mode
Instantly switch update rate to real-time to recover stolen assets
Geofencing
Mark geographical boundaries and monitor asset activity in a specific location
Movement Alerts
Get alerts when an asset moves from being stationary, or is stationary after moving
How to choose the best GPS trailer trackers and software?
When selecting a trailer tracker, it is essential to consider how specific features align with your operational needs. By aligning the features of these devices with your operational requirements, you can select a trailer tracker that enhances efficiency, improves security, and ensures your trailers are always accounted for.
- Power Source: Trailer trackers are battery-powered devices with variable update rates enabling you to set frequencies that meet operational requirements and extend battery life.
- Durability: Trailers are often exposed to harsh environmental conditions. Ensure your tracker is rugged and weatherproof, ideally with an IP67 rating to protect against dust and water.
- Update Frequency: You may require real-time updates or less frequent location reporting, depending on your operational needs. Some devices offer adjustable update frequencies, allowing you to balance battery life with the need for timely information.
- Installation: Look for devices that are easy to install and, if necessary, can be easily transferred between trailers.
Trailer Trackers - Frequently Asked Questions
We have the answers to your questions about trailer trackers
Trailer trackers typically offer location accuracy within a few feet, depending on the GPS signal and update frequency.
Most trailer trackers are designed for easy installation, using screws, zip ties, or adhesive tape, allowing for quick deployment.
GPS trailer trackers operate via satellite or cellular networks, providing coverage over vast distances without a traditional range limit.
Many trailer trackers can operate internationally, but it's important to confirm that the device supports the necessary networks in your region.
Fleet management software platforms allow for the simultaneous tracking of multiple trailers, with data accessible through a single dashboard.
- GPS trailer trackers are designed to protect trailers from being lost or stolen, and help to keep equipment and freight safe with tools like geofencing and calendar templates.
- Geofencing is a geographic technology that allows you to draw digital boundaries around specific areas, and you can monitor when trailers leave or enter that location. You could geofence a specific job site, depot, city, or beyond, and receive alerts when a trailer enters or leaves that location. You can also setup timeframes when your trailers, or group of trailers shouldn’t move, using a calendar template tool. If a trailer moves during that time you can receive alerts.
- You can also receive alerts for any reported issues on pre/post trip driver inspections, and make sure that corrective maintenance is scheduled, helping to keep your drivers safe on the road.
GPS trailer trackers provide valuable data, including location and usage information. GPS trailer trackers can also collect and store valuable maintenance records and inspection reports.