When choosing a fleet tracking provider, there are factors to consider to ensure that you are getting the best product that is fit for purpose. When choosing a gps tracking provider be sure to ask which cellular network (Spark, Vodafone, 2 Degrees) and generation (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G) the GPS devices they supply are operating on.Which cellular networks do the devices connect to?It is important to know which cellular networks the devices connect to. If a fleet tracking provider only utilises one of three networks and it does not have reliable coverage in your area, then the device will suffer from delayed position reporting. This happens because some network operators are stronger in different areas across the country. Check out the coverage maps here.At Fleetpin, we have overcome this issue for our customers by implementing roaming across all three cellular networks to ensure the best live coverage possible, no matter what area you are in.What generations of mobile network technology do the devices operate on?The “G” stands for “generation”, with 5G being the fifth and latest generation of mobile network technology available. Each generation brings faster and more reliable data speeds, which is why you’d typically notice a slowdown in your phone’s connection when it drops to 3G. The “G’s” are equally as important to fleet tracking, as strong and reliable network connections enable more efficient communication and data translation by tracking devices, not to mention the investment in installing more and more towers for the later generations increasing coverage. 3G technology is currently sunsetting, with telecommunication providers across the world bidding farewell with New Zealand following with 3G networks being shutdown in the upcoming months.Those who had exisiting 3G device ahead of this shutdown will be familiar with needing to upgrade, as these devices did not have the capability to connect to the 4G network. With the emergence of 5G, Fleetpin customers who use 4G devices can relax, as the technical aspects of 4G are officially recognised as 5G technology, and Fleetpin’s 4G devices will continue to be supported. Fleetpin anticipated the 3G issue well in advance and had not been selling 3G devices years in advance leading up to the shutdown, and sourced Cross Country 4G and Rugged 4G devices, as well as our 4G LongLife device for our customers instead.Clarity, Not ComplexityAt Fleetpin, we prioritise being a reliable partner to our customers by providing a ‘No BS’, fit for purpose fleet tracking solution, at reasonable prices. We continue to stay on top of industry advances with transparency around developments and changes to ensure our customers get the best possible solutions. You can check out our device options here.If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to our team for more information.
