So, you’re searching for a cheap GPS system, and found several online that don’t offer the features and benefits of those more expensive GPS systems but appear to meet your expectations and budget.

We get it. You want a cheap GPS system that will get you that dot on the map. The low cost for the monthly service is great and with life-time warranties too!

So, why do these cheap GPS systems always cost more money?

Let’s drill down on their weakest links to learn why!

1. Networks:
a. The wireless carriers these cheap GPS systems use often have limited data coverage. Even in metropolitan areas with tall buildings surrounded by concrete, a weak cellular signal will prevent your GPS system from working properly. As a result, you will experience false locations (called “stuck locations,” “out of coverage”) or even “delayed messages” (when the vehicle is not reporting correct locations). In most cases you will need to manually reset the GPS device by disconnecting the vehicles main battery for about an hour. Call tech support so they can troubleshoot the problem.
b. This will cost you money in time and labor. A lot more money than the savings you made on the monthly service! About an hour on the phone with tech support and another hour to bring your vehicle into the shop to reset the GPS device. A never-ending process too!

2. Equipment:
a. These cheap GPS systems do not use high quality GPS devices that are designed for commercial use. These devices are not industrial grade, IP66 rated (dust and shock proof). And, they do not meet military standards (202G/810F).
b. Most importantly, these cheap GPS devices do not include the latest SIM technology like HSPA (High Speed Packet Access). HSPA (High Speed Packet Access) is a mobile technology that allows for data transmission speeds up to 21 Mbps. HSPA+ (also called Evolved HSPA or 4G) is a further evolution of HSPA that offers data speeds of up to 42 Mbps.
c. This will cost you money in time and labor over time when these cheap GPS devices begin to fail. A lot more money than the savings you made on the monthly service! They will not hold up over time in the dust and the heat your fleet experiences every day. Again, you will need to call tech support to troubleshoot the GPS devices and bring your vehicle into the shop for replacement. A never-ending process too!

3. Life-Time Warranty:
a. Sure, most of these cheap GPS systems come with life-time warranties. But don’t be trapped by this feature because most GPS devices today cost between $0.00 and $100.00. When the cheap GPS device fails you will need to call tech support to troubleshoot the device and bring it into your shop and replace it.
b. This will cost you money in time and labor over time. A lot more money than the cost to purchase a new GPS device, and a lot more money than the savings you made on the monthly service! A never-ending process too!

How to Fix These Weak Links

Ask these questions before your purchasing decision!

1. Networks:
a. Ask if they use Verizon 3G-4G LTE as their carrier.
b. Verizon clearly has the best data coverage when it comes to GPS systems in the US. As a comparison between Verizon and T-Mobile (source: Whistleout.com/March 2018):
i. Verizon 3G: 73.56%.
ii. T-Mobile 3G: 20.71%.
iii. Verizon 4G: 81.29%.
iv. T-Mobile: 58.76%.

2. Equipment:
a. Ask if they use GPS devices that are industrial grade and IP66 rated for dust and shock proof, and most importantly, meet US. Military Standards (202G/810G).
b. Ask if their GPS devices incorporate HSPA technology for faster data transmission. CDMA is old technology and soon going away.
c. Ask if their GPS devices have built-in back up batteries to prevent tampering and provide continued use if the vehicles main battery fails or the GPS device is disconnected.

3. Life-Time Warranty:
a. Ask if they provide 24/7 tech support via phone and email, and ship replacement devices within 1-2 days.

ASK YOURSELF THIS QUESTION!

Would you spend $2-$3/month more to fix these weak links?