5 Qualities to Look for in Trailer Tracking Devices

In 2020, motor vehicle thefts reached the highest rate since 2009 at 246 per 100,000 people. If you’re looking for ways to monitor a vehicle or trailer, now is a great time to get started. 

In addition to offering protection from theft, investing in a trailer tracking device offers many other benefits as well. A trailer tracking GPS device can help you understand driver behavior, transport costs, efficiency, and much more. 

If you’re looking for a GPS trailer tracker, however, you need to be sure that you choose the best option for your needs. Here are 5 qualities you should look for in trailer tracking devices.  

1. The Right Power Source

The first thing that you should think about when choosing a trailer tracking device is its type and its specifications. There are different types of trailer tracking devices that you can choose from and various power sources that they can use.

You’ll want to consider the type of power source that you want. Battery-powered GPS tracking devices are a great option that will give you some flexibility. These units can easily be moved if you need to track a different trailer or asset instead. 

You can also choose to get a wired GPS trailer tracking device that will connect to a vehicle’s power system. A solar-powered GPS is an option for trailers as well. While the other types of tracking devices might be used inside a vehicle, solar-powered devices will typically be placed on the outside of your trailer and can be powered by the sun.

You should consider the power source you need carefully when choosing a trailer tracking device to install.

2. Strength and Durability

Another important factor to consider when choosing trailer GPS tracking devices is durability and longevity.

A trailer GPS should be rugged and reliable, so make sure that the one you choose is built well and that the hardware is high quality. Remember that the tracker you use should be able to withstand a lot of movement, adverse weather conditions, and other potential problems. 

On top of this, make sure that a GPS tracking unit is built to last. Depending on how long you plan to have the unit in your vehicle, there’s a good chance that you’ll want to make sure it lasts several years before needing to change the batteries or maintain it. 

It can be inconvenient to use a GPS unit that isn’t built with longevity in mind or that doesn’t have great durability. Keep this in mind when choosing a unit to purchase.

3. Excellent Tracking and Reporting Features

Another key feature you need to look for when choosing a tracking system for your trailer is reliable reporting and tracking.

Keep in mind that units are available that offer either real-time tracking, passive tracking, or periodic update tracking. With a passive tracking system, you’ll only be able to get the GPS data once the vehicle has been returned to you. With periodic updates, you’ll get information only intermittently.

With real-time tracking, however, you can view the location of the trailer remotely and instantly. You’ll likely want to make sure that the GPS you choose offers reliable tracking and allows you to view updates in real time. Carefully consider what types of connectivity and alerts you’re able to get and understand exactly what data you’ll get to see with the unit you’re using. 

You should also look for detailed reporting features. With great reporting, you’ll get better insights into your trailer’s activity. You can get important information such as distance traveled, driver behavior, fuel costs, and more.

4. Network Connectivity and Coverage

When choosing a GPS device, you’ll also want to look for great network flexibility and coverage. Find out what kind of compatibility the unit has with cellular networks and ensure that you’ll have enough coverage anywhere that your trailer might be.

At LoneStar Tracking, for example, our trackers are fully certified by the FCC, AT&T, and Verizon and offer 100% compatibility with cellular networks. With satellite coverage and the cellular agreements that we have in more than 170 countries, you’ll be able to get coverage no matter where your trailer is at any given time.

When buying a GPS tracker, make sure that you know what to expect. If your tracker doesn’t have great coverage and network connectivity, it won’t be able to do its job properly and you won’t be informed about what’s happening with your vehicle. 

5. A Great Mix of Quality and Affordability

It’s important to think about the cost of any GPS trailer trackers that you purchase as well. Ensure that you’ll be getting the level of quality and reliability that you truly need.

If you choose to buy a tracker from a “budget” GPS tracking company, then you might find that you have a hard time recovering an asset in a worst-case scenario such as theft. By focusing on quality when buying a GPS tracker, first and foremost, you’ll guarantee that you get the reliability that you need and that your tracker won’t fail on you when you need it the most.

While you should look for a reasonable price when choosing a GPS tracker, don’t think that all GPS trackers and tracking companies are the same. Paying more to get a quality tracker will be well worth it if you want to monitor your vehicle accurately and efficiently.

Following These Tips When Buying Trailer Tracking Devices

While there are a variety of trailer tracking devices available today, make sure to think carefully about your needs. Be sure to look for great durability, excellent tracking, reporting features, and the right power source when buying a GPS tracker.