Author: Courtney redwell

Fleet Management Flexibility with Automatic Geotab VIN Detection

Posted on | by Courtney redwell

The Geotab GO GPS tracking device can automatically detect vehicle identification numbers, also known as VIN. This enables fleets to easily determine the vehicles they’re looking up, and also to cross-reference with their records should the need ever arise.

From an operational stand point, the collected data by the Geotab GO GPS tracking device is not directly coupled with the vehicle identification number. This means that companies, such as vehicle rental businesses, who transfer their Geotab GO device(s) between different vehicles, can easily manage a fleet of vehicles that are periodically used. Further to this, Geotab’s intelligent VIN detection is being used in new and interesting ways with smart decoding to understand both the model and make of vehicles, along with corresponding specific vehicle engine data.

For example, there are many differences between diesel, electric and gasoline engines that describe the types of engine diagnostics reported. This allows managers to make informed decisions about their fleet-based, real-world vehicle information instead of simply “dots on a map”.

See Device Editor below, VIN is highlighted:

Geotab-auto-vin-detection

Graph of the odometer over time where the device owner bought a new vehicle and it drops off with the new odometer:

Geotab-auto-vin-detection

As a fleet manager we understand your job is hard enough; at GoFleet we want to do whatever we can to make your job easier. To learn more about the Geotab GO GPS tracking device contact one of our fleet consultants today.

Original Article From Geotab:
Fleet Management Flexibility with Automatic Geotab VIN Detection

Accidents Happen, Fleet Management Services Can Help

Posted on | by Courtney redwell

Fleet Management Services Help Protect In Case of an Accident

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, in 2012 317,000 large trucks were involved in crashes in the USA alone.

  • 65% of accidents involving two vehicles were front impact crashes
  • 12% right side
  • 17% left side
  • 6% rear impacts
  • 46% of these crashes involve both vehicles proceeding straight

These numbers suggest that vehicle collisions have cost these organizations a large sum of money, in personal injury and vehicle damage. However, the truck or vehicle driver may not be at fault, and there may be an opportunity to avoid costly repair and insurance fees. To accurately uncover what occurred and re-create a trip is to leverage fleet management services provided by a GPS fleet tracking company.

While the goal of fleet management services is to eliminate accidents from happening in the first place by being proactive, such as improving driver behavior, bottom line is accidents can still happen. Even the carefullest drivers can find themselves in an unexpected problem on the road. The key thing is to be aware that an accident does not always have to have an effect on your bottom line. With the use of our fleet management software, My.Geotab, fleet managers and business owners can use the tools provided to instantly analyze accidents.

Reports and Data
Looking at the trips history report and the map in My.Geotab has been the traditional way of looking at an event. There are more tools however, that provide insight into different occurrences, from acceleration graphs to point of impact graphs.

Acceleration Graph:
Below you will see a side-to-side acceleration graph. Negative represents right in this case. The graph shows the vehicle accelerated to the right at the point of impact, indicating to us the vehicle was hit from the left side.

acceleration graph fleet management services

Point of Impact Chart:
This is a speed profile chart that shows the speed of the vehicle during the time of the accident. In the case shown below, the yellow section indicates the vehicle was stopped before the impact occurred.

Point of Impact Fleet Management Services

Engine Data:
The data from the device after the accident can also be looked at to assess any internal system damage. The key here is to look for any Engine Fault Codes. These codes will refer to problems in the vehicle reported through the engine computer. Anything from ABS (Automatic Braking System) to transmission issues. Engine status data can also be used to identify issues with the vehicle. An increase in coolant temperature, for example, can indicate possible coolant leaks or damage to the engine. Engine status data is displayed under Engine and Maintenance within MyGeotab.

engine-diagnostics-fleet-management-services

Original Article From Geotab: Accidents Happen

Onboard Diagnostics, Remote Mechanic With Fleet Management Systems

Posted on | by Courtney redwell

Fleet Management Systems Provide Diagnostics

Everyone who owns a vehicle has at some point taken their car to the mechanics after noticing unusual system operations. Sometimes, when you’re lucky, the issues can be immediately detected, while other times the technician is unable to determine the exact problem, or one thing will get fixed only to learn that something else has also gone wrong. Electronic diagnostic tools are a standard piece of equipment found in a mechanics toolbox. These tools are normally the first line of defense in determining probable causes and estimates of any motor or system issues.

Fleet Maintenance management systems that communicate with a back-office system can eliminate the need for seeing a mechanic to discover vehicle problems. Maintenance checks and vehicle diagnostics can be done remotely and automatically with the use of a fleet management system. Summary reports that clearly show you exactly what is going on with your vehicles are also provided on-demand within the fleet management system, which can easily be set up to auto-email you reports at any time. Diagnostics information includes emission and engine while maintenance information includes mileage, tire pressure, and oil life.

The main benefit of always being in the know rests in the rapid responses that highlight whether or not you have a major issue that could have a negative impact on driver safety. Looking for vehicle trends gives you a heads-up on any situation that is likely to occur if not addressed quickly. Also, trained technicians can use this data to make informed and confident repair decisions. The future of the “remote mechanic” is continually evolving and being re-shaped through collaborative insights adding greater value.

If you are interested in learning more about how a fleet management system can benefit you, and help optimize your business, get in touch with one of our fleet consultants today!

 

Original Article From Geotab:
Car Technology, Onboard Diagnostics and The Remote Mechanic

 

Fleet Management Software Improves Fuel Economy

Posted on | by Courtney redwell

Save on Fuel Costs With Fleet Management Software

Everyone is interested in reducing their fuel consumption, especially with the high gas prices we are seeing today. Whether you own and operate a single vehicle or oversee an entire fleet of vehicles it is important to take the initiative towards reducing fuel costs. Not only will you be helping the environment by reducing your fuel consumption but you will also be saving money which will increase your bottom line. For most businesses the number one target area is fuel as it is the largest operating cost most fleets deal with.

A measurable method that helps derive fast fuel savings is fleet management software – also referred to as telematics. By adopting fleet management software you can reduce fuel consumption by:

  • Improving driver productivity – reduce idling time, harsh acceleration and speeding
  • Reducing total miles driven by incorporating route optimization
  • Detecting engine faults that may be contributing to increased fuel consumption
  • Analyze your miles per gallon (MPG) reports to pinpoint your most fuel efficient vehicles

By implementing a Green Fleet Program targeting improvement of fuel economy with the use of innovative fleet management software helps business owners and fleet managers maximize their return on investment (ROI). Many businesses are now even turning to electrical and hybrid vehicle purchases. As these vehicles become more popular and widely used, fleet management software development firms must be prepared to offer fleet management solutions catering to these vehicles.

Tip:
Ask your GPS fleet tracking provider if their software is compatible with electric and hybrid vehicles. It is important to implement a comprehensive fleet management software infrastructure that allows for fleet adaptability.

Armed with information, business owners and fleet managers can start to formulate plans to tackle fuel economy improvement. Speaking with a knowledgeable consultant can help you address your needs and show you how to achieve fast ROI.

Benefits of Choosing the Right Telematics Harness

Posted on | by Courtney redwell

Importance of Selecting the Right Telematics Harness

The right telematics harness matters; it helps maximize the richness of the telematics data, reduce your liabilities, and optimize installation time. This article touches on the three main benefits of choosing the right telematics harness and how it can make a difference.

Data Richness

GoFleet, in partner with Geotab, provides a “proprietary” data harness that gives end-users the most in-depth and detailed data possible. For example, it allows your GPS tracking device to tap into the manufacturers proprietary data bus which is where the information below is typically kept:

  • Odometer
  • Seatbelt
  • Engine-hour data

Optimize Installation Time

Using the proper harness helps installers mount the GPS tracking unit in the optimal location when performing activities, such as following the best route path. Furthermore it is important to help avoid brake and gas pedals, steering columns and high traffic areas for obvious safety reasons. T type harnesses limit tampering, help avoid GPS monitoring detection and allow mechanics to scan vehicles directly.

Liability Reduction

GoFleet’s harnesses (by Geotab) simply work. There is no chance of mis-wiring, over-current, or reflection issues, which can happen when a harness is too long for the vehicles network. Improperly wired or designed harnesses can cause a host of mechanical and electrical issues which can seriously increase a company’s liability. It is important for end-users to work with a reliable organization that is committed to engineering innovation.

For more information on the GoFleet solution, in partner with Geotab, that powers some of the top fleets in North America (such as UPS), please fill out our contact form.

GoFleet is not just another GPS Fleet Tracking company, we are interested in optimizing the way you do business. We work with you to ensure you get a quick ROI from our solution and truly see all the benefits GPS tracking can offer.

 

Original Article Written by: John Kyes, Development at Geotab
https://www.geotab.com/blog/top-3-benefits-of-choosing-the-right-telematics-harness/

GPS Fleet Tracking Small Business Small Fleet Offers ROI

Posted on | by Courtney redwell

GPS Fleet Tracking Small Business And/Or Small Fleet

Small business owners often assume either GPS fleet tracking is too expensive or they will not benefit from tracking a small fleet. Some small business owners do not even consider vehicle tracking because they think it is only for large fleets. GPS fleet tracking is just as much for small businesses as it is for large. Any company with 2 or more vehicles can benefits from GPS tracking software. You would be surprised to know about 25% of our customers have fleets smaller than 5 vehicles and could not be happier with the return on investment (ROI) they have received from the solution.

Yes, GPS vehicle tracking CAN seem expensive, but essentially you get what you pay for. The number one thing you need to keep in mind when making the decision about GPS tracking is the opportunity for a ROI. That is the great thing about fleet tracking, not only does it optimize the way you do business, it offers a return on investment by helping you save on fuel, reducing distance traveled and bringing down insurance costs.

If you are a small business owner and are just simply interested in tracking your vehicles, not all the other features we offer, we can accommodate you as well. What many people don’t know is we offer 2 levels of tracking: BASIC & PRO. Our BASIC tracking is significantly lower in price than our PRO because it does not include all of the features. However, it is great for people who simply only want to take advantage of the tracking element and a few basic features. To learn more about the difference between our BASIC and PRO modes, or more about GPS fleet tracking in general please contact us.

To learn more about GPS Fleet Tracking Small Business and how it can help you save money, increase productivity, and improve the safety of your drivers, check out this article: Top 10 Reasons to Use GPS Tracking Technology.

Fleet Management Solutions: Intangible Value

Posted on | by Courtney redwell

The Intangible Value of Fleet Management Solutions

The decision to make a technology investment purchase can be complex and often dictated by pricing. Financially, a firm would likely label the purchase as a business expense, as denoted on the income statement, rather than as an asset on the balance sheet.

Expenses are shown on the income statement for management as the “bottom line” of the company. Business expenses are subtracted from incoming revenues to show how much was earned (or lost) over the period. However, lasting benefits (such as future cost reductions) of a new technology is not typically taken into account when processing the original expense.

The upfront costs may be accounted for but one must also examine the intangible future benefits of the technology. Using fleet management solutions provides numerous paybacks to a business. Acting as an intangible asset, one that adds economic benefit and value over time, the fleet management solution has a direct impact on businesses bottom lines.

Savings can be easily seen in multiple areas. At GoFleet, partnered with Geotab, the savings have been identified as coming from 4 core pillars:

Fleet Optimization:
This includes making the best use of all assets available and optimizing driver management. Costs savings, in turn, can be realized from reduced fuel usage and greater MPG consumption.

Driver Safety Maximization:
Through our interactive driver training methods, drivers are constantly reminded of the best safe driving practices. For example, in-cabin ‘beeps’ will inform the driver to reduce their speed and/or put on their seatbelt if it is forgotten. Not only will this cut down on costs but it also helps businesses reduce vehicle damage and employee injury claims.

Enhancing Driver Productivity:
Getting more done during the day leads to long-term loyalty and customer satisfaction. This allows businesses to reduce their churn rates and improve their gross profit margins.

Ensuring Compliance:
For businesses operating inter-state, being HOS compliant is not an option; the value comes at no surprise as damaging and costly penalties can be avoided. Fleet management solutions provide vast savings in many ares of the company making it so much more than a little black box.

Investopedia Definition: Intangible Asset

To speak with an experienced Fleet Management Solution Consultant, and learn more about GPS fleet tracking fill out this contact form.

Original Article From Geotab:
The Intangible Value of Fleet Management

Reduce Fuel Spending, GPS Vehicle Tracking Systems Can Help

Posted on | by Courtney redwell

Simple Changes and a GPS Vehicle Tracking System Will Reduce Fuel Spending

There are several things that can be done to help save both fuel and money. From simply avoiding too many stops to building a whole new fuel-efficient model, it comes down to either improving the fuel economy of already existing vehicles or acquiring new more fuel efficient vehicles. Strategies for reducing fuel consumption can be broken down into the following six categories:

Matching the Right Vehicle to the Right Route
Choosing the right vehicle for the right task is very important. For example, you could assign lighter vehicles to longer routes and select alternative fuel vehicles for shorter routes.

Keep an Eye on Idling and Smarter Shifts When Changing Gears
The fewer times your engine starts, the less fuel you will consume. Changing gears sooner will also help lower your overall revolution per minute, resulting in less gas consumption. GPS vehicle tracking system technology allows in-vehicle ‘beeping’ functions which can alert drivers to turn off their engine when the vehicle has been put into “Park”.

Speed Restrictions
Restricting and reducing speed is another method for reducing wasted fuel. The implementation of speeding restrictions in fleet management is very helpful when it comes to saving fuel. This is because the slower the speed the less fuel required, ultimately resulting in lower fuel expenditure. GPS vehicle tracking system technology can also help drivers reduce fuel consumption by reminding them to slow down and stay within the posted speed limit.

Curb Idling and Aggressive Driving with a GPS Vehicle Tracking System
When it comes to idling, unnecessary consumption equals unnecessary costs, which is amplified further with the more vehicles a business operates. Reminding drivers to turn off their engine can have huge paybacks in both the short and long term. Aggressive driving also leads to greater fuel use. This includes things like speeding, harsh breaking, accelerating, and even sharp cornering. It is important to change driver habits to improve vehicle economy.

Switch To Alternative Fuels
Switching to alternative fuels can be very beneficial. It can help save on fuel expenses because alternative fuels are cheaper than regular oil. Not only is the fuel cheaper, but the maintenance fees are also lower.

Rely on the Right Sized Engines
Downsizing to vehicles with smaller engines can also help save significantly on fuel. FedEx purchased trucks with the right sized engines and are now 70-100% more fuel efficient than the previous trucks they were using. (According to Automotive Fleet)

Lighten the Load
Having a lighter vehicle load can help contribute to fuel savings. The lighter the vehicle, the more fuel efficient the vehicle will be. Car manufacturers have been able to significantly decrease the weight of many newer vehicles by building them with composite body parts.

Here at GoFleet, in partner with Geotab, we are committed to helping businesses realize a solid return on their GPS vehicle tracking system investment. Getting better MPG usages lies at the heart of what we do, as there are many contributing factors for reducing overall fuel expenditure. To learn more about how a GPS vehicle tracking system can help your business, contact GoFleet today.

5 Simple Ways To Improve Your Driving

Posted on | by Courtney redwell

Improve Your Driving With These Easy Tips

  1. Find the busy roads, and avoid them: Save time and gas by running a Trip History report on MyGeotab for your commute over the course of a few days, modifying your route each day, and finding which takes the least amount of time. As a bonus, you can run a Fuel Usage report to see the average fuel used and fuel economy used during these trips, and see which is the most economical and environmentally friendly route. Use technology to make the most out of your time and make your day as productive as possible.
  2. Lighten your lead foot: By speeding, you’re not only making it unsafe for others, but you’re also consuming much more fuel than necessary. Set up a Rule in MyGeotab to beep your GO7 device when you exceed 6mph/10km over the speed limit. Later, run an Exceptions report with the created rule. You may be surprised at how many times you go over the speed limit unintentionally in your daily commute.
  3. Find where you have parked: Whether you have parked on the outskirts of the mall parking lot, or on the other side of town, simply fire up MyGeotab on your phone’s browser, and tap “Maps” and filter for your car. Wherever you last parked will be the shown location of your car on MyGeotab map. As a bonus, it will also tell you how long you have been shopping at the mall (unfortunately it can’t tell you how much lighter your wallet is).
  4. Keep your car in tip top shape: Since the GO6 device plugs directly into the OBDII diagnostic port, setup a rule in MyGeotab to alert you whenever the engine light comes on. When it does, you can easily run an Exceptions report, and see which part of your car made the light turn on. As a bonus, set up a maintenance reminder in MyGeotab to remind you of your next appointment for a service, either by specific date or odometer reading.
  5. Set geo-reminders: Using Rules and Zones in MyGeotab, create a zone around a place, and set it to automatically send an email to your smartphone (or send a Garmin message if you are using a Garmin device with the Geotab GO6). For example, when you are driving past your local coffee shop on your way to work, setup a rule when entering a zone around it to send a message to remind you to bring in coffee for all your co-workers (bonus if you bring in donuts too).

For more information on how technology and GPS tracking can help improve your daily on-road activities, please contact GoFleet.

 

Original Article From Geotab: 5 Ways To Improve Your Driving

 

GPS Fleet Tracking Often Gets a Bad Name of Being Big Brother

Posted on | by Courtney redwell

GPS Fleet Tracking NOT Big Brother

When people call us looking for a GPS fleet tracking solution, many fleet managers have the same concern and hesitation: “Will my employees feel like Big Brother is always watching them?” Working with our customers closely through the implementation process we have learned employee perceptions can greatly be influenced by how they are first introduced to the system internally. It is usually easier to overcome than many fleet managers often assume. Once the company and employee benefits have been explained, employees almost always come on board with the idea.

Here are just a few features installing a GPS fleet tracking system will provide your company and your employees, helping them better understand what the system is used for:

  • Significant ROI.

After installing a GPS tracking system the operating costs of your fleet will decrease resulting in more profitability which is something everyone can benefit from.

  • Nothing to Hide.

Employees with “nothing to hide” should not object to the idea of tracking the company vehicles they drive; for those employees who do have something to hide ask yourself, do you really want them driving your vehicles in the first place?

  • Staying Competitive.

Keeping up with your competition is key and many other companies within your industry are already using GPS tracking for better fleet management.

  • Improve Customer Service.

Determine the exact time an employee showed up to the job site and how long he/she was there; very useful for employees when it is a customers word against his/hers, you will know the truth.

  • Keep Driver’s Safe & Avoid Traffic Violations.

Some GPS tracking companies (like GoFleet) offer in cabin audible alerts to help employees reduce speeding & harsh cornering which could, in turn, help them avoid getting a ticket. In the event that an accident or a ticket does occur, GPS vehicle tracking may hold up in court as a reliable source of defense clearing the driver of any charges.

  • Route Optimization.

Eliminate guessing who is closest to a customer/pick-up/emergency call location and wasting time. Real time tracking will allow you to know exactly who is closest without having to distract your employees by calling them.

  • Engine Diagnostics/Vehicle Maintenance.

Breakdowns will be eliminated; the advanced software will alert you of any irregular engine data. Maintenance reminders can also be set up to ensure you will not miss any oil changes and other regularly scheduled maintenance.

To learn more about how to successfully introduce your employees to GPS fleet tracking download Presenting GPS Fleet Management To Your Team.