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Works on iOS, Android, Web
Works on iOS, Android, Web
How to choose the right GPS fleet tracking software
GPS tracking costs $18-50/vehicle/month depending on hardware type and feature tier. OBD-II plug-in devices ($50-150) self-install in 5 minutes.
Hardwired units ($150-400+) need professional installation but are tamper-resistant. Before comparing platforms, decide what you're solving for: real-time dispatching needs 30-second updates, daily trip review works fine with 2-minute intervals.
That single decision changes your price tier and hardware requirements.
Evaluation criteria
Update frequency — A tracker that updates every 2 minutes is a reporting tool. One that updates every 30 seconds is a real-time operations tool. Ask for the default interval, the cost to increase it, and whether it slows down when the vehicle is stationary.
Hardware ownership — Do you own the device or lease it? Leased hardware means you return devices if you cancel and may owe termination fees. Owned hardware lets you switch software providers without losing your investment.
Geofence limits and precision — Platforms range from 50 to unlimited geofences. If you have hundreds of customer sites, a 50-geofence limit is a dealbreaker. Check whether you can draw polygon shapes or only circles, and how quickly entry/exit alerts fire.
Contract terms and exit costs — Month-to-month plans from GPS Trackit or One Step GPS cost 10-20% more but let you leave without penalty. Three-year contracts from Samsara or Verizon Connect lower the rate but early termination on a 200-vehicle fleet can exceed $100,000.
Cellular coverage on your routes — Most devices use AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile. Rural dead zones turn real-time tracking into delayed batch data. Test coverage in your actual operating territory before signing.