Lytx
#1AI-powered video safety platform with the largest driving behavior database.
Per vehicleDual-facing camera, MV+AI, self-managed video reviewCloud
Fleet Telematics for Trucking — J1939 Data, Engine Faults, Idle Time, and Fuel Consumption for Class 8
Compare fleet telematics for trucking companies. J1939 engine diagnostics, fuel consumption by driver, idle time monitoring, and driver behavior for Class 6-8 trucks.
Trucking telematics is not the same as light-fleet GPS tracking. Class 8 trucks generate J1939 data that standard OBD-II devices cannot read — engine RPM, torque, brake pressure, fuel consumption per mile, and fault codes that predict breakdowns before they happen. The platforms below are ranked for Class 8 trucking telematics fit.
Last reviewed Mar 19, 2026
How to evaluate telematics for trucking companies
J1939 connectivity is the non-negotiable starting point for trucking telematics. Class 8 trucks communicate over J1939 CAN bus — not OBD-II — and a telematics device that cannot read J1939 data is giving you GPS location and nothing else. The commercial value of trucking telematics comes from engine data: real-time fuel consumption per mile, idle time by driver, RPM profiles that show over-revving, and fault codes that flag DPF regeneration issues or oil temperature anomalies before they turn into $15,000 engine repairs. Verify J1939 compatibility with your specific truck makes and model years before signing any contract.
Fuel consumption data per driver is the highest-ROI trucking telematics insight. At $4-5/gallon diesel and 100,000+ miles per truck annually, a 1 MPG difference between drivers means $4,000-5,000/truck/year in fuel cost variance. Telematics platforms that report fuel efficiency by driver — not just by vehicle — identify the specific behavioral patterns (excessive RPM, aggressive acceleration, idle time) that create the gap. For a 20-truck fleet with average fuel spend of $80,000/truck/year, closing a 1 MPG gap across 5 underperforming drivers recovers $20,000-25,000/year.
Idle time monitoring directly translates to dollar savings in trucking. A Class 8 diesel engine idling consumes 0.8 gallons of diesel per hour. A driver who idles 2 hours per day — engine running at a truck stop or waiting at a loading dock — burns 400 gallons/year in unproductive fuel. Telematics platforms that send real-time idle alerts to drivers (audible notification or in-cab display after X minutes) reduce idle time by 30-50% within the first 90 days. At $4.50/gallon, eliminating one idle hour per day per truck saves $1,460/truck/year across a 20-truck fleet: $29,200/year.
Engine fault code alerts prevent the breakdowns that destroy trucking margins. A DPF fault code that goes unnoticed turns into a forced parked regeneration, then a tow, then a $3,000-8,000 shop repair. Telematics that alerts fleet managers the moment fault codes appear — with severity classification and recommended action — converts reactive breakdown response into proactive maintenance. Platforms like Motive, Samsara, and Geotab all surface J1939 fault codes with plain-English descriptions. Geotab's engine data depth via reseller is particularly strong for detailed fault code analytics on major truck OEMs.
Driver behavior data in trucking should focus on fuel-relevant behaviors, not just safety scores. Hard braking matters for safety, but the behaviors that drain trucking margins are: over-RPM operation (driving above optimal RPM range burns 5-10% more fuel), excessive idle, high-speed highway driving above 65 mph (fuel consumption increases exponentially above 65 mph), and unnecessary engine braking. A telematics platform that scores drivers on fuel-relevant behaviors — not just harsh braking and speeding events — gives fleet managers data to reduce fuel costs, not just accident rates.
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Pricing guidance
Trucking telematics runs $25-45/truck/month when bundled with ELD (the typical trucking deployment). Standalone telematics without ELD costs $20-30/truck. J1939-capable hardwired devices cost $150-300/truck. For a 25-truck fleet: $625-1,125/month subscription plus $3,750-7,500 hardware. Annual contracts from Motive and Samsara save 15-20% versus month-to-month. Geotab via reseller offers competitive pricing on larger fleets with custom analytics requirements.
How each platform serves trucking fleets
Here's how each leading platform performs specifically for trucking fleet operations.
Samsara
Samsara is the most AI-forward telematics platform for long-haul trucking, combining J1939 engine data with AI dashcam integration and real-time driver coaching in a single subscription. The platform captures fuel consumption from the J1939 bus on Freightliner, Peterbilt, Kenworth, Volvo, and Mack trucks, generating per-driver fuel efficiency scores used in coaching conversations. In-cab audio alerts fire when drivers exceed idle thresholds, reducing idle time 30-50% within 90 days. Engine fault codes appear with severity classification and plain-English descriptions. IFTA mileage tracking is fully automated. ELD compliance and pre-trip DVIR via mobile app are built in. Best for trucking fleets of 25-500 trucks wanting AI safety plus full telematics in one platform. Pricing: $35-55/truck/month all-in.
Geotab
Geotab provides the deepest J1939 engine analytics in trucking telematics, supporting over 20,000 vehicle-specific data points across Kenworth, Peterbilt, Freightliner, Volvo, and International trucks. The MyGeotab platform captures real-time fuel consumption per mile, RPM profiles, brake application events, and DPF regeneration status — data that competing platforms surface at a higher abstraction level. The custom rules engine allows fleet managers to set OEM-specific alert thresholds. Refrigeration unit monitoring via trailer J1939 integration is available for reefer carriers. Open API enables deep TMS integration for dispatch-to-telematics data flows. Sold through resellers at $25-45/truck/month depending on data tier and contract length.
Motive
Motive (formerly KeepTruckin) is the most widely deployed telematics platform in North American trucking — the default choice for carriers under 200 trucks wanting ELD compliance, telematics, and AI dashcam in one subscription. J1939 engine data covers fuel consumption per trip, idle time by driver, fault codes with plain-English descriptions, and RPM profiles identifying over-revving patterns costing 5-10% additional fuel. The fuel efficiency dashboard compares drivers on similar routes, isolating behavior-driven MPG variance from operational variance. Pre-trip DVIR via mobile app integrates with maintenance work orders. Brake wear alerts and DPF regeneration frequency monitoring support preventive maintenance. Pricing: $35-55/truck/month for the full ELD-plus-telematics suite.
Verizon Connect
Verizon Connect is a strong enterprise telematics choice for trucking carriers operating 50+ trucks who prioritize cellular coverage reliability in rural freight corridors. J1939 integration covers fuel consumption, idle time, fault codes, and brake events on Class 8 trucks with IFTA jurisdiction mileage reporting automated from GPS data. Driver behavior scoring generates insurance discount documentation. The Verizon LTE network advantage is meaningful for carriers running routes through rural areas where smaller networks create telematics data gaps. ELD integration is available. Three-year contracts are standard. Implementation support for large fleet deployments is more structured than mid-market competitors. Pricing: $40-60/truck/month at enterprise tier.
Teletrac Navman
Teletrac Navman is a mid-market telematics option for trucking carriers wanting J1939 engine data, ELD compliance, and IFTA automation without enterprise platform pricing. The platform covers fuel consumption monitoring, idle time alerts, fault code notifications, and driver behavior scoring on Class 8 trucks. Multi-jurisdiction IFTA reporting is automated from continuous GPS tracking. For carriers with cross-border Canada-US operations, Teletrac Navman's international support is a genuine advantage over US-only platforms. The driver mobile app receives mixed usability reviews — a relevant consideration for carriers where driver experience affects ELD compliance rates. Pricing: $30-45/truck/month with standard contract terms.
Lytx
Lytx is the strongest telematics platform for trucking carriers prioritizing safety and accident prevention above fuel analytics. The DriveCam video event recorder captures triggered footage of harsh braking, swerving, following distance violations, and distracted driving on Class 8 trucks — with AI classification to filter false positives caused by road conditions rather than driver behavior. For carriers with high accident costs and rising commercial auto insurance premiums, Lytx's documented 30-50% accident rate reduction in trucking fleets drives the primary ROI. Idle time and fuel consumption data are available but secondary to the video safety coaching workflow. Best for carriers where insurance and liability reduction is the core telematics objective. Pricing: $40-60/truck/month.
Fleet Complete
Fleet Complete is a practical telematics option for small-to-mid trucking carriers (10-100 trucks) wanting J1939 engine diagnostics, ELD compliance, and trailer tracking in a single platform without enterprise pricing. The platform covers fuel consumption monitoring, idle time reporting, fault code alerts, and driver behavior scoring on Class 6-8 trucks. Trailer tracking via asset-powered devices extends visibility beyond the tractor to trailer location, relevant for carriers managing trailer pools across multiple yards. Canadian headquarters means particularly strong cross-border trucking compliance support. Customer support quality is a consistent positive differentiator from larger enterprise platforms. Pricing: $25-40/truck/month with annual contracts.
Azuga
Azuga is a mid-market telematics platform best suited for regional and local trucking operations (Class 4-6) rather than long-haul Class 8 carriers. OBD-II and J1939 hardware covers medium-duty trucks with engine diagnostics, idle time monitoring, driver behavior scoring, and GPS tracking. The driver scorecard is particularly strong for insurance discount documentation — Azuga's report format is accepted by most commercial auto insurers for 5-12% premium reductions on trucking fleets in the 15-75 truck range. For Class 8 long-haul carriers needing deep J1939 analytics on Mack or Kenworth trucks, Motive or Geotab are stronger choices. Best for regional carriers with medium-duty fleets prioritizing insurance savings. Pricing: $25-35/truck/month.
GPS Insight
GPS Insight is a strong telematics option for trucking carriers that also operate field service or construction equipment fleets and want a single platform covering both. J1939 telematics on Class 6-8 trucks covers fuel consumption monitoring, idle time alerts, fault code notifications, and driver behavior scoring. Open API integration with TMS platforms including McLeod and TMW allows dispatch and telematics data to flow without manual reconciliation. IFTA mileage reporting is automated from GPS data. For dedicated fleet carriers who also need field service dispatch capabilities, GPS Insight's combined workflow platform reduces vendor count. US-based customer support with dedicated account management is a consistent differentiator. Pricing: $25-40/truck/month.
CalAmp
CalAmp provides telematics hardware and platform services with particular relevance for trucking carriers operating older Class 7-8 trucks where device ruggedness and vehicle compatibility are concerns. The TTU-730 and LMU-series hardwired devices cover both J1939 and legacy J1708 connectivity, handling older equipment still operating in some carrier fleets. Engine fault codes, fuel consumption, idle time, and GPS data transmit via cellular with satellite backup available for remote freight corridors. CalAmp's iOn platform provides fleet dashboards, or the open API allows data routing to third-party TMS or maintenance platforms. For carriers building a custom telematics stack, hardware reliability and API flexibility is a genuine advantage. Pricing: hardware $150-300/unit; platform $20-30/truck/month.
All telematics platforms for trucking companies
21 platforms reviewed with pricing, deployment details, and editorial verdicts. Each profile includes a full review.
Samsara
#2Connected operations platform for fleet tracking, safety, and compliance.
Per vehicleGPS tracking, basic reporting, geofencingCloudFree trial
Geotab
#3Open-platform telematics with advanced data analytics for fleet optimization.
Per vehicleGPS tracking, basic reporting, geofencingCloudFree trial
GPS fleet tracking and fleet management for businesses of all sizes.
Per vehicleGPS tracking, geofencing, basic alertsCloudFree trial
Azuga
#5Simple, affordable GPS fleet tracking with driver rewards and safety features.
Per vehicleGPS tracking, geofencing, trip history, basic reportingCloudFree trial
CalAmp
#6CalAmp is a telematics hardware manufacturer and fleet management software provider known for its LMU and TTU device families and the CalAmp iOn cloud platform. With roots in OEM telematics hardware, CalAmp serves fleet operators, construction companies, and asset-heavy industries. We tested the iOn platform, analyzed real user feedback from G2 and Capterra, evaluated their hardware lineup, and compared CalAmp against leading competitors to deliver this comprehensive review.
~$25–$45/vehicle/mo (custom quotes)Varies by features and fleet size
ClearPathGPS is an 8.1/10-rated GPS fleet tracking platform best suited for small-to-mid-size field service, construction, and trade fleets that want reliable tracking with transparent pricing and exceptional customer support. At ~$20/vehicle/month with no contracts and a 14-day free trial, it offers real-time GPS tracking, geofencing, driver behavior monitoring, and maintenance alerts — making it the top choice for service-based businesses that value simplicity and responsive US-based support o
~$20/vehicle/mo; no setup feesReal-time tracking, geofencing, alerts, driver behavior, reportingFree trial
Fleet Complete (now Powerfleet) is a Canadian-born fleet management platform serving 30,000+ customers across North America. We tested its GPS tracking, AI dash cameras, ELD compliance tools, and asset tracking for 90 days to see how it stacks up against Geotab, Samsara, and other top players.
From $10/vehicle/moGPS tracking, geofences, basic reporting. 36-month contract. Best for basic location tracking.
Fleetio
#9Modern fleet maintenance and management platform for mixed fleets.
Per vehicleVehicle records, basic maintenance, fuel trackingCloudFree trial
GPS Trackit
#10Budget-friendly fleet tracking with flexible hardware options.
Per vehicleReal-time tracking, trip history, basic geofencingCloudFree trial
IntelliShift
#11IntelliShift is a 7.9/10-rated fleet intelligence platform best suited for mid-to-large mixed fleets in construction, utilities, and field service that need to unify data from multiple vehicle types and telematics sources. The platform aggregates connected vehicle data, AI safety scoring, compliance management, and maintenance insights into a single dashboard — making it the top choice for complex operations with diverse asset types, though its custom pricing and steeper learning curve favor lar
~$25–$45/vehicle/mo (custom quotes)Connected vehicle data, GPS tracking, basic safety scoring, reportingFree trial
Motive
#12AI-powered fleet management with ELD, dashcams, and spend management.
Per vehicleELD, GPS tracking, basic reportingCloudFree trial
Netradyne
#13Netradyne is an 8.6/10-rated AI dash cam platform best suited for fleets that prioritize driver safety, video telematics, and positive behavior coaching. The Driveri camera uses four lenses and edge AI to provide 360-degree vision, real-time alerts, and GreenZone scoring that rewards safe driving — making it the top choice for safety-focused fleets, though it requires integration with a separate fleet management platform for GPS tracking and ELD compliance.
~$30–$50/vehicle/mo + hardwareAI alerts, GreenZone scoring, video cloud storage, driver coaching, analytics dashboard
Omnitracs
#14Omnitracs is a veteran fleet management platform now owned by Solera, built for long-haul trucking and enterprise carriers. With the Omnitracs One unified platform, it combines ELD compliance, route optimization, driver safety, and critical event video in a single ecosystem. We tested the platform, analyzed hundreds of user reviews, and compared it against modern competitors to determine whether Omnitracs still delivers value in 2026.
From $23/vehicle/mo (quote-based)EOBR ($23), Compliance ($32), Premium ($46)
One Step GPS
#15One Step GPS is an 8.0/10-rated GPS fleet tracker best suited for small businesses and budget-conscious fleets that need reliable real-time tracking at the industry’s lowest price point. At ~$13.95/vehicle/month with no contracts, it delivers solid GPS tracking, geofencing, and driver behavior monitoring — making it the top choice for cost-conscious fleets that need visibility without paying for features they won’t use.
~$13.95/vehicle/mo (no contract)Real-time tracking, geofencing, alerts, trip history, driver reports
Rastrac
#16Rastrac is a 7.5/10-rated GPS fleet tracking and asset management platform best suited for small to mid-size fleets that need affordable real-time vehicle tracking, geofencing, driver behavior monitoring, fuel management, and maintenance alerts. Founded in 1993, Rastrac is one of the longest-running GPS tracking providers in the industry, offering solid core tracking features at competitive pricing — though it trails newer platforms like Samsara and Motive in advanced analytics, AI capabilities,
Contact for pricingReal-time tracking, geofencing, basic alerts
Simply Fleet
#17Simply Fleet is a 7.6/10-rated fleet maintenance app best suited for very small fleets, owner-operators, and individual vehicle owners who need basic maintenance tracking, fuel logging, and expense management without paying enterprise prices. With a free plan for one vehicle and Pro plans starting at ~$3/vehicle/month, it delivers solid maintenance reminders and fuel tracking — but lacks GPS tracking, telematics, and the advanced features that growing fleets eventually need.
Free plan; Pro from ~$3/vehicle/mo1 vehicle, maintenance tracking, fuel logging, service reminders, basic reportingFree trial
Fleet management with strong compliance and safety features for commercial fleets.
Per vehicleGPS tracking and basic fleet managementCloudFree trial
Zonar Systems is a commercial fleet telematics provider known for its dominance in school bus and public transit fleet management. Now merged with GPS Trackit to form Zonar Ignition, the platform offers GPS tracking, EVIR electronic inspections, ELD compliance, and AI-powered dash cams. We tested the platform, analyzed 300+ user reviews, and compared it against market leaders to deliver this independent assessment.
From ~$26/vehicle/moIncludes Zonar Logs, DVIR, Ground Traffic Control, HOS
Rhino Fleet Tracking is a 7.8/10-rated budget GPS fleet tracking platform best suited for small to mid-size fleets that need affordable real-time vehicle tracking, geofencing, maintenance alerts, and basic reporting without long-term contracts. It delivers solid core GPS tracking at low cost but lacks advanced telematics, dash cams, and ELD compliance features offered by larger platforms.
Contact for pricingStandard rate; all core features included
Trimble
#21Trimble Transportation is one of the most established names in enterprise fleet and transportation management. Born from acquisitions of TMW Systems, PeopleNet, and others, the platform now offers a cloud-native, AI-powered TMS alongside fleet maintenance, driver mobility, and real-time visibility tools. We evaluated the full Trimble Transportation ecosystem — testing its new AI-powered Trimble TMS, analyzing hundreds of user reviews, and comparing it against Omnitracs, Samsara, Motive, and Geot
Contact for pricing
telematics software for trucking — side by side
Pricing, deployment, and trial availability for every platform reviewed. Click any row to read the full review.
Scroll horizontally to see all columns →
| Software | Pricing model | Starting price | Deployment | Free trial |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lytx | Per vehicle | Dual-facing camera, MV+AI, self-managed video review | Cloud | — |
| Samsara | Per vehicle | GPS tracking, basic reporting, geofencing | Cloud | Yes |
| Geotab | Per vehicle | GPS tracking, basic reporting, geofencing | Cloud | Yes |
| Verizon Connect | Per vehicle | GPS tracking, geofencing, basic alerts | Cloud | Yes |
| Azuga | Per vehicle | GPS tracking, geofencing, trip history, basic reporting | Cloud | Yes |
| CalAmp | ~$25–$45/vehicle/mo (custom quotes) | Varies by features and fleet size | — | — |
| ClearPathGPS | ~$20/vehicle/mo; no setup fees | Real-time tracking, geofencing, alerts, driver behavior, reporting | — | Yes |
| Fleet Complete | From $10/vehicle/mo | GPS tracking, geofences, basic reporting. 36-month contract. Best for basic location tracking. | — | — |
| Fleetio | Per vehicle | Vehicle records, basic maintenance, fuel tracking | Cloud | Yes |
| GPS Trackit | Per vehicle | Real-time tracking, trip history, basic geofencing | Cloud | Yes |
| IntelliShift | ~$25–$45/vehicle/mo (custom quotes) | Connected vehicle data, GPS tracking, basic safety scoring, reporting | — | Yes |
| Motive | Per vehicle | ELD, GPS tracking, basic reporting | Cloud | Yes |
| Netradyne | ~$30–$50/vehicle/mo + hardware | AI alerts, GreenZone scoring, video cloud storage, driver coaching, analytics dashboard | — | — |
| Omnitracs | From $23/vehicle/mo (quote-based) | EOBR ($23), Compliance ($32), Premium ($46) | — | — |
| One Step GPS | ~$13.95/vehicle/mo (no contract) | Real-time tracking, geofencing, alerts, trip history, driver reports | — | — |
| Rastrac | Contact for pricing | Real-time tracking, geofencing, basic alerts | — | — |
| Simply Fleet | Free plan; Pro from ~$3/vehicle/mo | 1 vehicle, maintenance tracking, fuel logging, service reminders, basic reporting | — | Yes |
| Teletrac Navman | Per vehicle | GPS tracking and basic fleet management | Cloud | Yes |
| Zonar Systems | From ~$26/vehicle/mo | Includes Zonar Logs, DVIR, Ground Traffic Control, HOS | — | — |
| Rhino Fleet Tracking | Contact for pricing | Standard rate; all core features included | — | — |
| Trimble | Contact for pricing | Custom quote | — | — |
Frequently asked questions about telematics for trucking fleets
What J1939 data does trucking telematics actually provide?
J1939 telematics on Class 8 trucks provides: engine RPM (identifies over-revving that increases fuel consumption), fuel consumption in real time and per trip, idle time with engine load data, coolant temperature (early warning of cooling system issues), oil pressure and temperature, brake pressure and application events, DPF (diesel particulate filter) regeneration status and fault codes, and emission system fault codes. The specific data points available vary by truck OEM — Mack, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Freightliner, and International all expose slightly different J1939 parameter IDs.
How much can telematics reduce fuel costs for a trucking company?
Trucking fleets with active telematics programs and driver coaching report 8-15% fuel consumption reduction within the first year. For a 20-truck fleet spending $80,000/truck/year on diesel, that is $128,000-240,000 in annual savings. The primary drivers are idle time reduction (0.8 gallons/idle hour), speed management (fuel consumption rises sharply above 65 mph), and RPM optimization coaching. Telematics does not reduce fuel costs automatically — the data must be used for coaching and accountability to generate savings.
What is the best telematics system for Class 8 trucking?
Motive (formerly KeepTruckin) is the most widely used telematics platform for trucking fleets under 200 trucks — it combines J1939 engine data, ELD compliance, GPS tracking, and AI dashcam integration in one subscription. Samsara is stronger for fleets that prioritize AI dashcam features and safety analytics. Geotab via reseller is the deepest J1939 analytics platform for larger carriers that need custom reporting and predictive maintenance models. Avoid general-purpose fleet platforms built for light vehicles — they lack proper J1939 support for Class 8 trucks.
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