15 Best GPS Tracking Devices for Your Equipment [2024]

Imagine your valuable cargo disappearing for 72 hours due to faulty GPS tracking. The frustration and financial loss from missed deadlines, upset clients, and unexpected costs can be overwhelming.

At TEKTELIC, we get it. We know how critical reliable GPS tracking is because we’ve seen what happens when it fails. That’s why we’re committed to providing the best GPS asset tracking devices to keep your equipment safe and always within reach.

This guide helps you choose top GPS tracking devices for various needs, optimize equipment utilization, ensuring your assets are protected, and productivity is maximized. These devices are essential for managing equipment, reducing downtime, and preventing unauthorized use.

But finding the right tracker can be tricky. Common issues include poor coverage and frequent maintenance.

This article compiles the best-in-class IoT tracking devices divided into four primary use cases:

• Industrial Equipment Tracking

– Large Industrial Equipment Tracking of Non-Powered Assets 

– Hazardous Location Equipment Tracking

• Personnel Tracking & Safety

Let’s dive in and find the right tracker for your needs!

Top 3 Industrial GPS Tracking Devices for Equipment

In industrial settings, having robust, reliable asset trackers is crucial to keep equipment safe and running efficiently. 

Just think about this: unplanned equipment downtime costs companies an average of $260,000 per hour, according to the International Data Corporation (IDC)​. 

And if that’s not enough, the National Equipment Register (NER) reports that more than $1 billion worth of construction equipment gets stolen every year in the U.S. alone.

Continue reading to find your best GPS tracker for heavy equipment.

1. TEKTELIC Industrial GPS Tracker ORCA

ORCA is a robust LoRaWAN® connected solution developed for industrial asset management. This industrial asset tracker offers precise GPS capabilities suitable for various applications such as tracking shipping containers, pallets, railcars, fleet vehicles, and industrial equipment. 

Featuring a rugged IP67 design and a remarkable 5-year battery life, the ORCA ensures reliable performance in harsh environments. Now, let’s dive into its versatile range of use cases:

• Industrial Equipment: Provides real-time location tracking, ensuring equipment is used efficiently and returned on time.
• Shipping Containers: Monitors the movement of containers, preventing loss and ensuring timely delivery.
• Railcars: Tracks railcars across long distances, offering reliable data on location and status.
• Fleet Vehicles: Manages fleet tracking operations for trucks with precise tracking, improving route planning and reducing operational costs.

When developing ORCA, we kept in mind the pressing needs of industrial operations. Designed to withstand harsh conditions, it ensures continuous tracking of valuable equipment, mitigating the risk of unplanned downtime and loss. 

With ORCA, your assets are in safe hands, empowering your business with efficiency and reliability.

Features:

• Rugged Design: Designed with ruggedness and boasting an IP67 rating, this product is engineered for use on mobile industrial assets in demanding environments, such as trucks, trains, and heavy equipment. It can endure extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to +85°C during operation.
• Long Battery Life: Low-power solution with a 5+ year battery life ensures continuous and reliable operation and reduced maintenance costs.
• Outdoor and Indoor Asset Tracking: Integrated GPS for precise outdoor positioning, with BLE functionality for continuous tracking as asset moving between indoor and outdoor environments.
• Event-based Startup: Device can be configured to only track (or increase reporting frequency) when the asset is moved/in-motion. Greatly reduces power consumption.
• Simple Onboarding & Autonomous Configuration: The Device can be onboarded in seconds by anyone regardless of their technical expertise with TEKTELIC LeapX application. Users can configure and re-configure the device parameters such as reporting interval, thresholds and alarms autonomously from the Network Server or Configuration Server.
• Interoperable Solution: Integrates with TEKTELIC Locus application for asset visualization , and API is available for integration with any 3rd party Real Time Location Tracking application.

Pros of TEKTELIC Industrial GPS Asset Tracker:

• GPS & BLE for Outdoor and Indoor environments
• IP67 rated
• Operation Temperature -40°C to +85°C
• 5+ Year Battery Life
• Can be Integrated with TEKTELIC or 3rd Party Network Servers.

Cons of TEKTELIC Industrial GPS Asset Tracker:

• Larger Size

Here’s an Example of the Deployment of the Industrial Asset Tracker TEKTELIC ORCA: 

TEKTELIC ORCA Asset Trackers were chosen for the project for activities positioning monitoring of sea buoys to ensure safe navigation in the Adriatic Sea. With a web application, all the buoys are easily tracked around the clock, providing real-time data on their exact locations and conditions.

This implementation not only enhances maritime safety but also optimizes navigation routes, reduces response times during emergencies, and minimizes the risk of accidents or collisions, ultimately safeguarding both marine life and valuable assets.

2. Abeeway Industrial Tracker

The Abeeway Industrial Tracker is a robust, multi-mode device equipped with various geolocation technologies for accurate tracking in challenging industrial environments.

Pros:

• 12 Months of Data Storage
• 7 Year battery life
• GPS, Low-power GPS, Wi-Fi , & BLE for outdoor and indoor location.

Cons:

• Does not meet IP67 rating
• 3rd party network server integration can be complex

3. Digital Matter Oyster 3 Tracker

The tracker offers robust asset tracking capabilities with long-lasting durability and advanced features.

Pros:

• IP68 rated enclosure
• Easy integration into LoRaWAN networks
• 10+ years battery life

Cons:

• No Indoor Positioning

4. Milesight AT101

The Milesight AT101 is a compact and versatile asset tracker designed for reliable tracking and monitoring in various environments.

Pros:

• Multiple Positioning Technologies (GPS, Wi-Fi, BLE, and LoRaWAN): Ensures accurate and reliable location tracking both indoors and outdoors.
• Rugged Design: IK09 rated provides resistance to high-impact events

Cons:

• Limited Data Storage: May not store as much historical data compared to some other trackers.

4 Best Large Industrial Equipment Trackers of Non-Powered Assets

Tracking assets in industrial environments presents several challenges due to harsh weather and vast areas. 

Your business needs durable tracking devices that provide accurate data to prevent loss, optimize usage, and ensure security. The latest data shows a troubling rise in cargo theft, with a 57% increase in incidents in 2023, amounting to nearly $130 million in losses. Hot spots like California, Texas, and Florida are most affected. 

Advanced tracking technologies and innovations are crucial for improving visibility and protecting assets in these high-risk areas​.

1. TEKTELIC Outdoor Asset Tracker STORK

STORK is perfect for tracking vehicles, equipment, and other assets in any environment. Its versatile mounting options let you attach it directly to pallets and other equipment, making it easy and reliable to track assets on the move. 

Thanks to the low-power capabilities of LoRa Edge™, STORK offers LoRaWAN® long-range connectivity, Low-Power GNSS, BLE, and WiFi positioning. Plus, its extended battery life ensures you always know the exact location of your valuable assets.

STORK shines in providing precise asset tracking solutions across various industries, including:

• Construction Sites: Keep tabs on equipment and materials to reduce the risk of theft and unauthorized use.
• Manufacturing Facilities: Track machinery and tools to optimize maintenance schedules and boost operational efficiency.
• Warehouses: Monitor inventory movements and streamline logistics processes to minimize errors and downtime.
• Multi-Building Campuses: Manage assets across multiple locations to enhance security and improve asset utilization.

With its rugged IP67 design, over 5 years of battery life, and easy integration, STORK offers unmatched reliability and flexibility in asset tracking, delivering significant benefits to businesses across various industries.

Features

• Accurate Outdoor and Indoor Asset Tracking: Integrated low-power GNSS for battery efficient outdoor positioning of assets on the move with BLE and Wi-Fi sniffing functionality for tracking indoors.
• Long Battery Life & Versatile Power Options: Low-power solution powered with a 5+ year battery life, or can be connected to a 12V power supply for continuous powering in a vehicle ensuring continuous and reliable operation and reduced maintenance costs.
• Rugged Design: IP67 Design with Operation Temperature ranging between -40°C to +85°C, Ideal for assets being tracked in any indoor or outdoor environment
• Event-based startup: Device can be configured to only track (or increase reporting frequency) when the asset is moved/in-motion. Greatly reduces power consumption.
• Simple Onboarding & Interoperable Solution : Can be onboarded in seconds by anyone regardless of their technical expertise with TEKTELIC LeapX application. Integrates with TEKTELIC application, and API is available for integration with any 3rd party Real Time Location Tracking application.

Pros of TEKTELIC Outdoor Asset Tracker STORK:

• Low-Power GNSS for power efficient Outdoor Positioning
• BLE & Wi-Fi Sniffing for Accurate Indoor Positioning
• Rugged IP67 Design
• Operation Temperature -40°C to +85°C
• 5+ Year Battery Life with optional 12V External Power Supply

Cons of TEKTELIC Outdoor Asset Tracker STORK:

• Non-Rechargeable batteries

2. Digital Matter G62

The G62 LoRaWAN® by Digital Matter is a rugged and ultra-rugged vehicle and heavy equipment tracking device designed for fleet management and equipment monitoring on LoRaWAN® networks.

Pros:

• High-Precision GPS/GLONASS Tracking: Enhanced accuracy with a 72 channel high sensitivity receiver.
• Weatherproof and Ultra-Rugged IP67 Housing: Resistant to dust, water, and extreme temperatures.
• Internal Backup Battery: Ensures operation in case of power loss or tampering.
• Flexible Configuration : Supports digital and analog inputs to interface with a range of devices and switches to fit any application including seat belt detection, door open/close monitoring

Cons:

• Complex Integration: May require specialized knowledge for integrating with existing systems. Requires a 8-36V DC power source.
• Limited Indoor Use: Primarily designed for outdoor environments, limiting effectiveness indoors.

3. Abeeway Micro Tracker

The Abeeway Micro Tracker is a versatile, multi-mode tracking device combining GPS, Low-power GPS, Wi-Fi Sniffer, BLE, and LoRaWAN TDoA for accurate indoor and outdoor geolocation.

Pros:

• Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and use for various tracking needs.
• Long Battery Life: Up to one year on a single charge.
• Multi-Usage SOS Button: Ensures safety and quick alerts.

Cons:

• Limited Water Resistance: Does not meet higher IP ratings like IP67.
• Complex Setup: May require technical expertise for optimal configuration.

4. Dragino Tracker D-LS 

The TrackerD-LS is an advanced LoRaWAN asset tracker from Dragino, designed for precise and efficient tracking in various environments.

Pros:

• 3000mAh Rechargeable Battery + Solar Panel: The device lasts a long time and is eco-friendly, so you won’t need to recharge it often.
• Versatile Location Technologies: It supports GPS for real-time tracking, and also uses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for better connectivity.
• Arduino IDE Compatibility: It’s easy to customize and program, so developers can adjust it for specific projects.

Cons:

• Complex Initial Setup: Setting it up with IoT servers and networks can be tough for people who aren’t very experienced with technology.
• Limited Internal Storage: It can store data when there’s no network, but the storage space is limited, which might not be enough for long periods without connection.

Hazardous Location Equipment Tracking

In hazardous environments, reliable asset trackers are essential for safety and efficiency. Equipment failure in these settings can lead to severe safety incidents and costly disruptions. 

Unplanned downtime costs industrial manufacturers an estimated $50 billion annually, according to GE Digital. Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that over 5,000 workers are injured annually due to equipment failures. Accurate tracking and maintenance of equipment in hazardous locations are crucial to mitigating risks and maintaining operational integrity.

1. TEKTELIC Outdoor Asset Tracking for Extreme Environment PELICAN Ex

The PELICAN EX tracker is perfect for tracking assets in areas with weak signals. It uses LoRaWAN® and Bluetooth, making it especially good for outdoor use. With IP67 and ATEX Zone II certifications, it’s built to handle tough and hazardous environments.

Overcoming Challenges in Hazardous Environments: The PELICAN EX improves safety, productivity, and efficiency in tough conditions. It offers a complete and reliable solution for easy asset management in a challenging environments.

Pros of TEKTELIC Pelican Ex:

• BLE Integration: Can accurately position assets through an established BLE network.
• Multiple Operation Modes: PELCIAN can be deployed as a tracker (device being positioned), or a beacon (establishing the BLE network to position other assets).
• Hazardous Environment Deployments: PELICAN Ex is certified for Class 1/Div 2 (ATEX) compliance, allowing it to be deployed in hazardous areas where flammable gases or vapors may be present.
• Long Battery Life: Low-power solution with a 10 year battery life ensures continuous and reliable operation and reduced maintenance costs.
• Simple Onboarding & Interoperable Solution: Can be onboarded in seconds by anyone regardless of their technical expertise with TEKTELIC LeapX application. Integrates with TEKTELIC application, and API is available for integration with any 3rd party Real Time Location Tracking application. Learn more about how to set up IoT asset management effectively here.

Cons of TEKTELIC Pelican Ex:

• No GPS

2. Abeeway Compact Tracker 

The Abeeway Compact Tracker is a handy device that helps you track things accurately in different places. It uses GPS, Low-power GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and LoRa geolocation technologies.

Pros:

• Very Accurate and Tough: Built to last even in tough conditions.
• Long-lasting Battery: Can run up to 7 years on replaceable AA batteries.
• Multiple Tracking Technologies: Works well for tracking both indoors and outdoors.
• Dustproof and Waterproof: Certified to handle dust, water, and explosive environments.

Cons:

• Complicated Setup: Getting it ready to use can be tricky.

3. Globalsat LT520

The LT-520 ATEX is an ATEX/IECEx compliant LoRaWAN GPS tracker designed for robust performance in various tracking applications. It features a durable design with multiple connectivity options and a long-lasting battery.

Pros:

• Supports LoRaWAN Network: Facilitates efficient data communication over long distances.
• Built-in GNSS (GPS + Glonass), BLE and Wi-Fi Solution: Ensures accurate indoor and outdoor positioning.
• 5-Year Battery Life: Powered by a 19Ah non-rechargeable battery, reducing maintenance needs.
• Configurable Periodic Report and BLE OTA Firmware Updates: Offers customizable reporting and easy firmware updates.

Cons:

• Currently Under Certification Process: The device is still undergoing ATEX/IECEx certification, which may affect immediate deployment in certain regulated environments.

4 top Personnel Safety GPS Asset Tracking Devices

Ensuring the safety of workers is especially important in high-risk or remote locations. GPS asset tracking devices play a vital role in this by offering real-time monitoring, emergency alerts, and accurate location tracking. These features significantly boost the overall safety and security of your team. According to Grand View Research, the global market for GPS personal tracking systems is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.9% from 2021 to 2028, driven by the rising demand for personal safety and security solutions.

1. TEKTELIC Personnel Safety GPS tracking device SEAL

The SEAL wearable industrial device offers comprehensive safety monitoring and location tracking for personnel. It enhances workplace safety by providing accurate outdoor and indoor tracking along with a wide range of safety features for workers in hazardous environments. Features like fall detection and geofencing ensure proactive safety compliance, promoting a secure and efficient industrial setting.

Let’s delve into the variety of use cases where SEAL plays a vital role:

• Emergency Situations: Provides immediate alerts and tracks locations during emergencies.
• Remote Workers: Ensures the safety of employees working alone in isolated or hazardous areas.
• Large Facilities: Monitors the location of personnel in big facilities to ensure their safety and security.

Features

• Indoor and Outdoor Positioning: Integrated GPS for precise outdoor positioning at industrial and construction sites, and BLE functionality for continuous tracking if the worker moves indoors.
• Essential Safety Features: Includes enhanced safety features such as: Fall and Motion detection, Altitude and Height detection, SOS Button, Safety Clip detection for hazardous aerial work environments as well as a loud (settable) audio alarm and flashing LED’s. Reduces workplace incidents and improves worker safety.
• Ruggedized Design & Hazardous Environment Deployments: IP67 enclosure and operating temperature from -20°C to 60°C,. Suitable for most outdoor deployments in any environment. SEAL Ex is certified for Class 1/Div 2 (ATEX) compliance, allowing it to be deployed in hazardous areas where flammable gases or vapors may be present.
• Industrial wearable form factor: Designed to be attached to a harness, belt, or suspenders.
• Long Battery Life: Low-power solution with a 15 month battery life ensures continuous and reliable operation and reduced maintenance costs.
• Simple Onboarding & Autonomous Configuration: Can be onboarded in seconds by anyone regardless of their technical expertise with TEKTELIC LeapX application. Users can configure and re-configured autonomously from the Network Server or Configuration Server to manage reporting intervals, thresholds and alarms.

Pros of TEKTELIC SEAL GPS Tracker:

• Realtime Tracking with GPS & BLE
• Wearable device with adjustable clip
• Panic button, Audio & visual Alarms
• Fall Detection, Elevation Detection, & Harness Detection
• Rugged IP67 design
• Operational Temperature -20°C to +60°C
• 15 Month Battery life

Cons of TEKTELIC SEAL GPS Tracker:

• Non-Rechargeable batteries

2. TEKTELIC Wearable Badge Style Personnel Tracking Device CHICKADEE

The Chickadee is an advanced LoRaWAN® device designed to transform how you keep track of your people and assets. Using the low-power positioning capabilities of LoRa Edge™, it offers GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi positioning.

Pros of TEKTELIC CHICKADEE:

• Integrated with traditional GPS and low-power GNSS for battery efficient outdoor positioning of assets on the move with BLE and Wi-Fi functionality for tracking indoors.
• Rechargeable battery with 6 month life, or can be connected to a 12V power supply for continuous powering in a vehicle
• Designed to be worn on a belt, lanyard or in a pocket. Provides safety to lone workers by providing a SOS button that is easy to access in an emergency situation.
• Can be onboarded in seconds by anyone regardless of their technical expertise with TEKTELIC LeapX application.
• Integrates with any 3rd party Real Time Location Tracking application. Users can configure and re-configure autonomously from the Network Server or Configuration Server.

Cons of TEKTELIC CHICKADEE:

• Larger form factor than standard access control badges

3. Abeeway Smart Badge

The Abeeway Smart Badge, a compact ID card-style tracker, integrates GPS, Wi-Fi, BLE, and LoRaWAN geolocation technologies, ideal for workforce tracking and safety.

Pros:

• GPS and Low-Power GNSS
• Panic/ SOS button with audible buzzer
• 25 port charging dock

Cons:

• 90 day battery life
• Expensive (compared with TEKTELIC CHICKADEE)
• No External power supply

4. Seeed Sensecap T1000

The SenseCAP T1000 is a LoRaWAN GPS tracker that utilizes GNSS, WiFi, and BLE for precise outdoor and indoor RTLS positioning.

Pros:

• Versatile Geolocation Technologies: Equipped with GNSS, WiFi, and BLE, offering accurate location tracking in various environments.
• Long Battery Life: Designed for extended use without frequent recharging.

Cons:

• Complex Configuration: Initial setup and configuration may require technical expertise.
• Limited Network Compatibility: May not be compatible with all network types, requiring specific infrastructure.

Looking for a Reliable GPS Tracker for Equipment?

We get you! TEKTELIC has the GPS tracking solutions you may find. Our tracking systems offer reliability, precision, and durability. With TEKTELIC, you’ll not only boost the safety and efficiency of your assets but also enjoy peace of mind, knowing we’re with you every step of the way on your IoT journey.

FAQs

How Do Construction Companies Use GPS Trackers for Heavy Equipment?

Construction companies install GPS trackers on heavy equipment to monitor their locations in real-time. This enables them to track equipment usage, prevent theft, schedule maintenance, and optimize deployment for increased efficiency. For more on how to set up IoT asset management, visit this guide.

What Equipment and Tools Can I Use a Tracker With?

GPS trackers can be used with a wide range of equipment and tools, including heavy machinery, vehicles, containers, and portable tools. This versatility makes them ideal for various construction applications and other equipment tracking needs.

Can I Hide an Asset Tracker?

Yes, many GPS trackers are designed to be compact and discreet, making them easy to hide on your equipment. This ensures that the trackers can be used without drawing attention, which is particularly useful for theft prevention.

Will I Receive a Notification on My Phone if an Asset Moves Outside an Approved Area?

Yes, most GPS trackers offer geofencing capabilities, sending alerts if an asset moves outside a predefined area. This feature helps in monitoring and preventing un authorized equipment moves.

How Far Can a Vehicle Travel Before I Lose Tracking Data?

Most GPS trackers provide continuous tracking over long distances, with data stored and accessible via a cloud-based platform. This ensures that you can monitor your equipment even when it moves over large areas.

How Do I Choose a Good GPS Tracker?

When selecting a GPS tracker, consider your specific tracking needs, whether it’s for assets or personnel, indoor or outdoor tracking, and other factors such as data accuracy and battery life. Look for a tracker that aligns with your requirements and offers features like reliable real-time tracking, long battery life, and compatibility with your tracking platform. Still have questions? Сontact our team today to learn more: info@tektelic.com

What is Low Power GNSS, and how is it different from GPS?

Low-power GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) is a satellite navigation system designed for energy-efficient operation, ideal for IoT devices and wearables. When the device gathers GNSS data from satellites, it transmits this data to the Gateway via LoRaWAN, which then relays it to the Network Server. Subsequently, the data is directed to the LoRa Cloud platform for processing and analysis to determine location information. This approach significantly decreases power demands compared to traditional GPS positioning, which is calculated directly on the device.