Geofencing
Geofencing is the use of GPS, RFID, or other location technologies to create virtual geographic boundaries around a defined area. When a tracked asset enters or exits a geofence, the system triggers an automated action such as an alert, notification, or status change. Geofences can be drawn around job sites, depots, restricted zones, client premises, or any area relevant to asset management.
Why it matters
Geofencing automates asset accountability by detecting when equipment leaves a site without authorisation, arrives at a new location, or enters a restricted zone. It reduces theft and loss, supports automated time-on-site reporting for billing and utilisation analysis, and enables compliance monitoring for assets that must remain within certain boundaries. Geofencing replaces manual check-in processes with reliable automated tracking.
How MapTrack helps
MapTrack allows users to draw geofences around any site or zone and automatically receive alerts when GPS-tracked assets cross boundaries, with full entry/exit logs for reporting.
Frequently asked questions
What are common uses of geofencing in asset management?
Common uses include theft prevention alerts when assets leave a site unexpectedly, automated time-on-site logging for utilisation and billing, arrival/departure notifications for delivery or collection scheduling, and enforcing restricted zone boundaries for safety-critical areas. Geofencing can also trigger automated status updates, such as marking an asset as ‘on-site’ when it enters a project location.
How accurate are geofences?
GPS-based geofences are typically accurate to within 3–10 metres under open sky conditions, which is sufficient for site-level tracking. Accuracy can decrease in urban canyons, dense vegetation, or underground environments. For tighter accuracy in indoor or constrained areas, Bluetooth or UWB-based geofencing solutions can achieve sub-metre precision.
Related terms
GPS Tracking
GPS (Global Positioning System) tracking uses satellite signals to determine and record the real-time geographic location of assets, vehicles, or equipment fitted with GPS receivers. Tracking data is transmitted to a central platform via cellular or satellite networks, providing continuous visibility of asset movements, routes, and dwell times. GPS tracking is fundamental to fleet management and high-value mobile asset monitoring.
Asset Tracking
Asset tracking is the process of monitoring the location, status, custody, and condition of physical assets throughout their lifecycle. It combines identification technologies (QR codes, barcodes, RFID, GPS) with software to maintain a real-time or near-real-time record of where assets are and who is responsible for them. Asset tracking applies to tools, equipment, plant, fleet, IT hardware, and any other tangible items of value.
Fleet Management
Fleet management is the administration of an organisation’s vehicles and mobile plant, including acquisition, maintenance, fuel management, driver compliance, GPS tracking, and disposal. It covers light vehicles, heavy vehicles, trailers, mobile plant, and any other registered or unregistered mobile assets. Modern fleet management relies on telematics, GPS tracking, and software platforms to optimise operations and reduce costs.
Equipment Utilisation
Equipment utilisation measures the extent to which available equipment is being productively used, typically expressed as a percentage of available time or capacity. It is calculated by dividing actual usage time (or output) by total available time (or maximum capacity). Utilisation data can come from meter readings, operator logs, GPS tracking, or telematics systems. It is a key operational efficiency metric in asset-intensive industries.
OEM Telematics
OEM telematics refers to the factory-installed tracking and diagnostic systems built into vehicles, plant, and heavy equipment by the original equipment manufacturer. These systems collect and transmit data including GPS location, engine hours, fuel consumption, fault codes, idle time, and operating parameters. Major OEMs such as Caterpillar, Komatsu, John Deere, Volvo, and Hitachi each offer proprietary telematics platforms.
See how MapTrack handles geofencing