How Long Does It Take to Install a Fleet-Wide Vehicle Tracker System?

Fleet managers often worry about the amount of time their vehicles spend on the road. The longer a vehicle is in motion, the more fuel it consumes, which can significantly affect the company's fuel expenses. Managers aim to monitor vehicle routes, driving speeds, and overall driver performance. A vehicle tracking system is the answer to this challenge. 

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about installing a vehicle tracking device, the factors that can affect installation time, the steps involved, and tips for selecting the right GPS tracker for your requirements.

Factors Affecting Installation Timeline

When it comes to installing a fleet vehicle tracking system in trucks, cars, vans, or motorcycles, the process typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes for each vehicle. However, several factors can influence this timeline. 

Fleet Size and Complexity A larger fleet naturally demands more time for installation than a smaller one. The number of technicians assigned to the job also matters. For extensive fleets, the installation might take several days, enabling fleet managers to stagger the decommissioning of vehicles and maintain smooth operations.

The complexity of the installation process is an important consideration. Opting for a straightforward, easy-to-install GPS tracker will take less time compared to a more advanced system that requires extensive wiring and setup. 

Type of Tracking System

There are two primary types of vehicle tracking devices to think about: OBD GPS and Hardwired GPS. 

OBD GPS trackers are quick and simple to install, needing minimal wiring. They can be set up in about 5 minutes by someone without technical expertise and can be easily removed and transferred to another vehicle. These trackers plug directly into the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic (OBD) port, which is usually located in the glove compartment or beneath the driver's footwell.

Hardwired GPS trackers are built into the vehicle’s electrical system. Installing these devices usually takes longer, around 30-40 minutes per vehicle. Although the installation process is more time-consuming, hardwired GPS trackers provide better security since they are concealed under the hood, making it challenging for thieves to remove them or for employees to tamper with them. Furthermore, these trackers offer advanced data collection because they are linked to the vehicle’s wiring system.

Steps in the Installation Process  

If you’re not completely sure about installing the GPS tracker on your own, it’s always a good idea to seek help from a professional. However, if you decide to tackle it yourself, here’s a brief overview of the installation steps:  

Hardware Setup With an OBD GPS tracker, there’s no hardware setup needed—just plug the device into the vehicle's OBD port, and you’re all set. In contrast, a hardwired GPS tracker involves a bit more work. You’ll need to connect the device to the vehicle’s 12V power supply and link the wiring to the vehicle’s wiring harness.

Wiring for OBD GPS trackers, no wiring is required since they are designed to be a "plug-and-play" solution. However, if you're installing a hardwired tracker, there are several wiring tasks you'll need to complete, including:

• Finding the vehicle’s power source and linking it to the tracker
  
• Using tape to secure the connection and avoid grounding problems
  
• Attaching the GPS device’s white wire to the vehicle's ignition wire
  
• Properly mounting the tracker under the vehicle’s hood to ensure it stays in place while driving.
  

Software Configuration OBD GPS trackers are ready to use right out of the box—just plug them in! However, you will need to download a companion app on your mobile device or computer, create an account, and connect it to the tracker.

For hardwired GPS trackers, it's essential to set up the system to receive and process data. If the tracker includes an app, you'll need to create an account and connect it to the tracker.

Installation by Your Provider

For larger fleets with time constraints, it can be more efficient to have your provider take care of the installation. Skilled technicians will manage the wiring and make sure the system is installed correctly. Generally, the installation process takes about 30-40 minutes for each vehicle, with technicians ensuring that all connections are made properly. 

Having a trained professional oversee the installation and setup guarantees that the wiring is done right and that the system is optimized for peak performance, helping to avoid any potential damage to the equipment during the installation process.

Conclusion

GPS tracking devices are essential for fleet managers, allowing them to keep an eye on their vehicles' movements and locations. To achieve optimal results, particularly with advanced hardwired GPS trackers such as Letstrack’s FleetTracker, we strongly recommend professional installation. Let us help you with the installation process so you can quickly take advantage of the powerful features offered by telematics technology. 

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us to talk about your fleet’s tracking requirements, and we’ll ensure the installation is seamless!