As companies expand their reach, the management of assets and the optimization of supply chains have emerged as critical determinants of competitiveness. The integration of cutting edge technologies has proven indispensable as a key tool for optimizing supply chains. One such technological marvel, GPS asset tracking, has emerged as a game-changer in the logistics industry. By harnessing the power of global positioning systems, companies now have the ability to track, monitor, and analyze the movement of their assets in real time. This innovative solution holds the promise of not only enhancing operational efficiency but also mitigating a myriad of potential logistical challenges. Since fleet managers have heard about this technology, they’ve all asked a common question: does GPS asset tracking truly prevent logistics issues? To answer this, we have to dissect the multifaceted benefits of this technology and what a solution in action looks like. Keep reading to discover this answer.
Increase Your ROI by Investing in AirFinder Everywhere
- Loss Prevention. Reduce the amount of loss that occurs during the supply chain process
- Location Coverage. AirFinder Everywhere uses a combination of GPS, Cellular, and WiFi to determine location everywhere
- Security Alerts. Know when a delay in shipment has occurred so the problem
can be addressed immediately.
Common Logistics Issues
Before we determine whether or not a GPS asset tracker can prevent logistics problems, we need to evaluate what these problems are and where they stem from.
Loss
Whether due to unforeseen accidents, theft, or mismanagement, the toll of loss can be profound. Consider a fleet of vehicles facing an unexpected breakdown in a remote location, leading to costly repairs and missed deadlines or a simple mistake of leaving a pallet full of packages behind. These scenarios are not uncommon, and they highlight the inherent vulnerability of logistics operations. Losses incurred not only encompass tangible assets but also extend to intangible elements like time, reputation, and customer trust. The less visibility you have over your assets, the less control you have over loss prevention.
Theft
The movement of goods, often across vast distances and through various hands, presents ample opportunities for thieves to exploit vulnerabilities. High-value shipments, in particular, become prime targets, enticing those with criminal intent. Whether through covert tampering, hijacking, or even insider collusion, the methods employed can be as diverse as they are cunning. The consequences of theft ripple through the entire supply chain, inflicting financial losses and delays. It’s difficult to recover stolen assets in a timely manner, even with the help of law enforcement, without having a way to see your assets no matter where they are.
Delays
From unforeseen weather conditions to traffic congestion and mechanical failures, the disruption of the seamless flow of goods seems inevitable. Each delay, no matter how minor, sends ripples through the supply chain, impacting schedules, straining resources, and potentially disappointing customers. In industries where timeliness is paramount, such as perishable goods or time-sensitive deliveries, the stakes are even higher. Delays can cascade into financial losses, erode customer trust, and tarnish your company’s reputation. Moreover, they challenge the very essence of logistics efficiency: the ability to deliver goods promptly and reliably. By acknowledging and proactively addressing the inevitability of delays, fleet managers can not only weather the storm but also emerge more resilient and adaptable in the face of adversity.
Compliance
The regulatory framework governing logistics is a tapestry of local, national, and international standards, each with its own set of requirements and intricacies. Some companies transport perishable assets meaning they need to abide by the FSMA regulation. The penalties of not meeting these regulations range from fines and legal repercussions to reputational damage. Meeting these requirements is not always a simple task. Oftentimes companies are unaware they lack compliance until it’s too late to take action.
Asset Usage
The efficient deployment of assets – be it vehicles, equipment, or facilities – is a linchpin in ensuring optimal productivity and cost-effectiveness. Yet achieving this equilibrium is far from straightforward. Fluctuating demand patterns, unforeseen disruptions, and evolving market trends introduce a level of complexity that demands strategic foresight. Underutilized assets result in inefficiencies and financial strain, while overutilization leads to premature wear and tear, escalating maintenance costs, and potential breakdowns. The struggle lies in the quest for that elusive sweet spot where assets are maximally utilized without compromising their longevity or compromising service quality. This is difficult to achieve without data to help you understand how you’re operating now compared to how you should be operating.
Efficiency
The logistics industry faces many changing variables, including fluctuating demand, unforeseen disruptions, and evolving technology. Balancing the need for speed with cost-effectiveness requires careful consideration, as haste can lead to oversights and inefficiencies. The struggle lies in optimizing every facet of operations, from the loading dock to the last mile, without sacrificing quality or safety. It can be difficult to achieve maximum efficiency without real-time visibility of your assets. If you don’t have the data to understand your current operations, you can’t make strategic decisions to improve operations and ultimately, improve efficiency.
What is GPS Asset Tracking?
GPS asset tracking is a type of sophisticated technological system that utilizes Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to monitor and manage the location, status, and movement of valuable assets in real time. This innovative solution has revolutionized various industries, particularly logistics, by providing a comprehensive and accurate means of tracking assets throughout their journey. At its core, GPS asset tracking relies on a network of satellites orbiting the Earth, which continuously transmit signals to GPS receivers embedded within the tracked assets. These receivers then triangulate their position based on the signals received from multiple satellites, allowing for precise location determination. This information is relayed to a central management system, where it can be accessed and analyzed by fleet managers through user-friendly interfaces. A GPS asset tracking system plays a pivotal role in optimizing operations. The GPS tracker monitors the real-time location of trailers and cargo, ensuring adherence to planned routes and schedules. Through geofencing, fleet managers can receive immediate alerts in case of deviations or unexpected delays, allowing for proactive intervention to prevent further disruptions. Geofencing capabilities allow managers to establish virtual boundaries. When the GPS tracking device attached to trailers or cargo crosses the boundary, an alert is sent to the fleet manager.
How GPS Asset Tracking Prevents Those Issues
Prevents Loss
When assets are constantly on the move, there is a high risk of loss. GPS tracking allows for precise location tracking, so fleet managers can ensure their assets remain within designated boundaries and routes. Any deviation triggers immediate alerts through use of geofencing, enabling immediate intervention to prevent further loss. Additionally, the data collected through GPS tracking can be used to reconstruct events leading up to the loss, aiding in efforts to proactively prevent loss from happening. This proactive approach significantly reduces the window of opportunity for loss to occur and go undetected. Ultimately, by providing real-time visibility, rapid response capabilities, and a deterrent effect, asset tracking plays a pivotal role in preventing loss and safeguarding valuable assets in a myriad of industries.
Prevents Theft
GPS tracking systems enable companies to monitor the movement of assets with pinpoint accuracy, deterring potential thieves who are aware that their actions are being closely monitored. In the unfortunate event of a theft, GPS tags have the ability to instantly pinpoint the exact location of the stolen asset, significantly enhancing the chances of retrieval. This not only minimizes financial losses but also acts as a potent deterrent for future theft attempts. Additionally, the data recorded by the tracking system serves as crucial evidence for law enforcement agencies in their investigations. Thanks to geofencing, any breach of virtual boundaries triggers immediate alerts, enabling rapid response to potential theft scenarios. This proactive approach drastically reduces the window of opportunity for thieves to escape undetected.
Prevents Delays
Fleet managers can monitor the exact whereabouts of assets, allowing for proactive decision-making to avoid potential delays. For example, if a vehicle encounters unexpected traffic congestion or a road closure, the GPS tracking system provides immediate insights, enabling quick rerouting to minimize delays. Moreover, GPS asset tracking enhances route optimization. By analyzing historical data and real-time conditions, managers can choose the most efficient routes for their assets, reducing transit times and avoiding congested areas. This not only ensures on-time delivery performance but also leads to cost savings through reduced fuel consumption and wear and tear on vehicles. Additionally, the data provided by GPS asset tracking allows for better coordination and synchronization of activities across the supply chain. From coordinating pickup and delivery schedules to optimizing warehouse operations, the real-time information empowers logistics teams to make informed decisions that prevent bottlenecks and keep operations running smoothly.
Ensures Compliance
Depending on the GPS asset tracking device you choose, you can see a wealth of data beyond mere location. Due to embedded sensors, the device can monitor critical factors including temperature, shock, and acceleration. This data is invaluable for companies transporting sensitive assets. If there is a change in these environmental factors during the supply chain, the fleet manager will be alerted so proper steps can be taken to address the situation immediately. GPS asset tracking systems provide accurate record-keeping and reporting. It generates detailed logs of asset movements, which can be utilized for compliance audits and regulatory submissions. This level of transparency instills confidence in regulatory authorities and stakeholders, demonstrating a commitment to upholding industry standards.
Improve Asset Usage
GPS asset tracking has revolutionized asset management by providing real-time insights into usage patterns. GPS asset tracking software allows companies to monitor the movement and status of their assets with unparalleled accuracy. Whether it's the trailers on your lot or the pallets used to ship cargo, knowing their exact location enables proactive decision-making to optimize their usage. Furthermore, asset tracking facilitates data-driven decision-making. It records critical information including idle time and routes taken. This data is invaluable for assessing asset performance, identifying underutilized resources, and streamlining operations. Companies can analyze this data to fine-tune their asset allocation strategies, ensuring that each resource is deployed efficiently and effectively.
Improve Efficiency
The level of transparency GPS trackers provide empower companies to streamline their operations in unprecedented ways. Route optimization, for instance, is a cornerstone of efficiency. Through real-time data analysis, companies can identify the most efficient paths for asset movement, reducing transit times and fuel consumption. In addition, GPS tracking enables predictive maintenance. By monitoring usage patterns and collecting data on asset conditions, companies can implement timely maintenance measures to prevent breakdowns and extend the lifespan of their assets. This proactive approach not only reduces downtime but also minimizes the overall cost of ownership.
Which GPS Asset Tracker Should You Use?
AirFinder Everywhere is the best choice for GPS asset tracking, setting a new standard of excellence in the industry. With its cutting-edge technology and unparalleled capabilities, AirFinder Everywhere offers a myriad of compelling reasons to be your go-to GPS asset tracker. First and foremost, AirFinder Everywhere excels in accuracy and reliability. Powered by state-of-the-art GPS, it provides real-time location data with pinpoint precision. It’s also combined with WiFi sniffing and LTE technology to reduce battery life without sacrificing accuracy and precision. One of AirFinder Everywhere's standout features is its robust geofencing capabilities, allowing you to establish virtual boundaries for your assets, triggering instant notifications in case of any breach. This proactive approach allows you to take immediate action when assets deviate from their designated areas. Additionally, AirFinder Everywhere offers seamless integration with other systems and platforms. Whether it's your existing fleet management software or third-party applications, AirFinder Everywhere can effortlessly integrate, ensuring a smooth transition and enhancing your operational efficiency. AirFinder also has embedded sensors in the GPS tags for monitoring environmental conditions such as temperature and shock.
How Are You Preventing Logistics Issues?
By harnessing the power of GPS technology, companies across various industries can gain real-time visibility into the whereabouts and status of their assets. This not only leads to enhanced operational efficiency and cost savings but also provides a valuable layer of security and peace of mind. As technology continues to advance, the applications and benefits of GPS asset tracking are likely to expand, further revolutionizing the way companies manage their valuable resources. To learn more about this revolutionary solution, book a demo with our team of experts.
