The Trailer Tracking Device You Need for Supply Chain Management

Trailer tracking has emerged as a game-changer for companies seeking to optimize their logistics operations, and with a boom in demand, the options have increased as well. It’s difficult to determine which solution is the best for your company. Let’s explore the revolutionary trailer tracking devices that are empowering companies to stay ahead in a competitive market and which one you should invest in.

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.
  
  

Why You Need Trailer Tracking

The value of trailer tracking lies in its ability to provide real-time visibility of trailers while they’re on and off the road. By employing tracking devices, fleet managers can monitor the precise location and status of trailers and cargo, enabling them to make strategic decisions to maximize productivity. Technology plays a vital role in optimizing fleet management. By gathering valuable data on driver behavior and fuel consumption, companies can refine their fleet management strategies, reduce costs, and operate more sustainably. Moreover, trailer tracking enhances security and helps to prevent theft by setting up geofences around facilities, alerting companies if a trailer enters restricted areas or exits lots when they shouldn’t be, thus safeguarding their valuable assets and minimizing risks. Moreover, in companies dealing with perishable or hazardous goods, trailer tracking helps companies comply with strict regulatory requirements. By equipping tracking devices with environmental monitoring capabilities, companies ensure that temperature-sensitive cargo remains within prescribed conditions during transit, preventing spoilage, contamination, and any potential legal consequences.

Customers demand transparency and real-time updates on their shipments. Trailer tracking enables companies to provide accurate and up-to-date information to customers about their cargo's status and estimated delivery time, fostering trust. As the logistics landscape continues to evolve, companies that embrace and leverage trailer tracking technology will gain a competitive edge, delivering on the promise of seamless and reliable supply chain operations.

Types of Devices

Companies have a few trailer tracking device options to choose from. Each device has its own strengths and weaknesses that should be considered before investing in it. Let’s break down the top choices.

AirTag

The most popular asset tracking device for consumers is the Apple AirTag. The AirTag was designed as a small and versatile item tracker. Most people use this device to track their keys and wallets. It's essential to acknowledge that using the Apple AirTag or other consumer tags for trailer tracking will have limitations. Since they were designed for short range tracking activities, they lack the long-range connectivity and scalability that trailer tracking devices are equipped with.

AirTags have a dependency on the Apple ecosystem, which poses compatibility challenges for companies using diverse devices and platforms. This can lead to integration issues, making it cumbersome for companies to incorporate AirTags into their existing telematics systems seamlessly. While it’s simple for consumers to connect the tag to their personal “Find My” app, it becomes more complicated when used at a large scale by multiple users. Companies would have to purchase an Apple device to view the location of their tags if they don’t already have one which only adds to the hassle.

GPS

The use of GPS devices for trailer tracking has revolutionized the way modern supply chain management operates. GPS technology has been a reliable solution fleet managers have used to track trailers and their cargo in real-time throughout the entire logistics journey. GPS devices for trailer tracking provide precise and accurate location data, enabling fleet managers to have complete visibility over their fleet. This real-time tracking capability allows them to monitor their trailers' movements and make data-driven decisions to optimize routes. Enhanced security is another key advantage of using GPS devices for trailer tracking. These devices have geofencing capabilities, so fleet managers can receive alerts if a trailer crosses this virtual boundary. This feature helps to mitigate potential losses caused by negligence or theft.

GPS trailer tracking devices have one main shortcoming that deters companies from investing in them, battery life. GPS technology drains battery life very quickly and even faster when the tag is in an area with poor service. Even though devices using GPS provide accurate tracking, they are expensive to own because they either have to change the battery often or purchase new tags entirely once the battery is used up. The best way to combat this issue is to invest in a solution that combines GPS with other location technologies.

AirFinder Everywhere

AirFinder Everywhere is a cutting-edge trailer tracking solution that has revolutionized the logistics industry. Designed specifically for tracking assets at a commercial scale, AirFinder Everywhere provides companies with unparalleled real-time trailer visibility throughout their supply chain operations. One of the standout features of AirFinder Everywhere is its combination of WiFi sniffing, cellular, and GPS technology to offer accurate location data for trailers in transit while preserving battery life. This real-time tracking capability empowers logistics managers to monitor their fleet's movements on a map, so they can optimize routes, anticipate delays, and make data-driven decisions for improved operational efficiency. With precise location information at their fingertips, companies can maximize supply chain efficiency.

AirFinder Everywhere's advanced geofencing capabilities are instrumental in enhancing security and theft prevention. Moreover, AirFinder Everywhere goes beyond location tracking by offering environmental monitoring features. For companies transporting temperature-sensitive goods, this capability is invaluable. The device can monitor temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors, to ensure the cargo remains within specified conditions during transit. This compliance with industry regulations and quality standards helps prevent spoilage and damage, thus maintaining product integrity and customer satisfaction.

The scalability and versatility of AirFinder Everywhere make it suitable for various trailer types and sizes. The device's compact design allows for easy installation on trailers without obstructing the cargo's loading or compromising security. Additionally, its long-lasting battery life ensures continuous monitoring during long journeys, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing operational disruptions. Even more, devices can be attached to pallets carrying cargo or the cargo itself for further visibility.

Selecting the Best Asset Tracking Device

Selecting the best asset tracking device is a critical decision that significantly impacts the efficiency and security of your logistics operations. With numerous options available in the market, it's essential to carefully consider your specific needs and requirements before making a choice. First and foremost, you should assess the tracking technology used by the device. GPS-enabled devices offer accurate real-time location data. These devices are suitable for outdoor tracking but Bluetooth devices are better suited for tracking stationary assets within a confined area. Narrowing down where you're tracking your assets helps you narrow down the type of technology your device should have. Next, consider the battery life of the tracking device. Opting for a device with long battery life minimizes the frequency of replacements and ensures continuous monitoring without disruptions. Some devices offer power-saving features, such as sleep modes or motion-triggered activation, which can further extend battery life.

Connectivity is another important factor to evaluate. Cellular-based devices offer widespread coverage, making them suitable for assets in remote areas, while devices with Bluetooth connectivity may be more suitable for assets within a fixed location with network access. Additionally, consider the tracking range required for your assets. When tracking trailers, you need to track them over long distances and across multiple locations. Opt for devices with a wider range and strong signal reception capabilities. Ensure that the trailer tracker is compatible with your existing telematics system. Seamless integration with your current technology stack will streamline the implementation process and enhance data management. Choose a device that offers robust encryption and secure data transmission to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access.

Comprehensive reporting and analytics capabilities are also essential to have. Access to historical data, usage patterns, and performance insights will equip you with the tools you need to make informed decisions so you can optimize your supply chain. Working conditions need to be taken into account as well. If the tag will be exposed to rough, industrial conditions, you’ll need to select a tracking device that can withstand them. 
Scalability is another essential consideration. Plan for future growth and scalability of your asset tracking needs. Choose a trailer tracking system that can accommodate additional assets and expand without significant disruptions. By considering all these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your company's needs and leads to efficient and effective asset management.

The Best Trailer Tracking Device

AirFinder Everywhere stands out as the best trailer tracking solution due to its accuracy, reliability, and other unique capabilities. The combination of GPS technology with cellular, and WiFi sniffing ensures accurate and real-time location tracking of trailers and cargo. AirFinder Everywhere boasts long-lasting battery life since it combines GPS with other location technologies, enabling continuous visibility during extended journeys. This reduces the need for frequent replacements, minimizing operational disruptions and ensuring uninterrupted tracking.

With AirFinder, companies gain complete visibility over their fleet's movements, enabling optimized route planning, proactive response to delays, and improved operational efficiency. The device's advanced geofencing capabilities further enhance security and theft prevention. AirFinder Everywhere goes beyond basic tracking functionalities by offering environmental monitoring features. The device tracks temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors to ensure that cargo remains within specified conditions during transit to prevent spoilage and other compliance issues.

Another compelling aspect of AirFinder Everywhere is its ease of installation and compact design. The device can be discreetly attached to trailers without adding unnecessary weight or occupying significant space. This unobtrusive nature ensures that cargo loading is not compromised, providing a seamless tracking solution without interference. The seamless integration of AirFinder Everywhere with your existing telematics enhances convenience and accessibility for fleet managers. Having all the visibility telematics and trailer tracking provides makes data storage easier and more organized.

Which Trailer Tracking Device Will You Choose?

The world of trailer tracking devices has brought a new era of efficiency and transparency to supply chain management. From real-time tracking and temperature monitoring to predictive analytics, these devices offer a plethora of benefits for companies seeking to optimize their logistics operations. Embracing asset tracking technology will undoubtedly empower companies to stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive and fast-paced market. With the right trailer tracking device, companies can streamline their supply chain operations. Book a demo with our team to learn more about our AirFinder trailer tracking solution.