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.
Why it matters
GPS tracking provides real-time visibility of fleet vehicles and mobile plant, enabling better dispatching, route optimisation, and theft recovery. It helps organisations verify that equipment is where it should be, monitor unauthorised use or after-hours movement, and generate accurate utilisation reports. For businesses with assets spread across multiple remote sites, GPS tracking is often the only practical way to maintain visibility.
How MapTrack helps
MapTrack integrates with GPS tracking hardware and OEM telematics to display live asset locations on a map, with geofence alerts for unauthorised movement and historical breadcrumb trails.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between GPS tracking and GPS logging?
GPS tracking transmits location data in real-time to a central platform, allowing live monitoring. GPS logging stores location data on the device for later download and review. Real-time tracking is essential for theft prevention, dispatching, and geofence alerts, while logging is sufficient for post-trip analysis and compliance record-keeping.
Does GPS tracking work in remote areas?
GPS receivers can determine location anywhere with a clear view of the sky, including remote areas. However, transmitting that data requires cellular or satellite network coverage. In areas without cellular coverage, satellite-based communication or data logging with delayed upload are common solutions for mining and civil construction sites.
Related terms
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.
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.
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.
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.
IoT Sensors
IoT (Internet of Things) sensors are connected devices that collect and transmit data about an asset’s condition, environment, or usage in real-time. Common sensor types measure temperature, vibration, humidity, fuel levels, engine hours, pressure, and tilt. The data is transmitted wirelessly to a central platform for monitoring, alerting, and analysis.
See how MapTrack handles gps tracking