By tracking cargo , you can understand the transportation route of your entire fleet in real time and gather important management information. The information gathered contributes to management control and the smooth flow of cargo. These programs record data on products, routes, loads, and destinations, in addition to collecting references from professionals involved in each stage of the delivery process.
More advanced programs may also provide additional features, such as sending incident reports directly to companies and customers in the event of accidents or unforeseen events.
5 technologies for tracking cargo
GPS: the best-known technology for tracking cargo
The GPS-based cargo tracking system has 24 satellites to support it: those in Earth orbit. So, no matter where you are, you have at least four satellites in your company's sights.
A receiver is mounted on the truck to receive the signal sent by the satellite and decode the position based on longitude and latitude coordinates. The location data is sent to the monitoring center and forwarded to the operator.
The equipment installed in the truck is a navigator sweden cell phone database with GPS (Global Positioning System) technology, among its advantages we can mention the possibility of real-time consultation.
Managers can access data from anywhere using the internet, apps, or digital platforms. Because data access is continuous, 24/7, it's possible to alert the police immediately in the event of a theft.
Satellites have highly accurate atomic clocks that record the time elapsed between the moment the signal is sent and the GPS response arrives. From this time interval, the exact position of the vehicle and its cargo can be calculated. GPS technology can operate from the most distant point, as long as it's not underground.
Radio frequency: radio waves as a system for tracking cargo
Tracking cargo using radio frequency (RF) has also become popular and is already one of the most widely used methods in Brazil. GPS is satellite-based, while RF obtains information from radio antennas within a country's territory. The signal captured by the antenna is triangulated to pinpoint the truck's precise location.
This system has many advantages, as it can reach indoor and covered environments that GPS cannot. Operators prioritize the system for tracking vehicles in urban complexes full of warehouses and tunnels. RF operates underground.
This is a very stable system because each device operates on a specific frequency. Therefore, the signal jammer rarely interferes with signal transmission and reception.
These interceptors are used by thieves to make it difficult to track trucks. The radio frequency also has a security system that alerts you to the presence of a signal jammer near the center.
Telemetry: detailed monitoring of the vehicle and cargo
Telemetry is a more comprehensive technical system, not only tracking cargo but also monitoring the vehicle itself, collecting information such as speed and traffic conditions in dangerous areas. This helps prevent accidents and highway robberies.
Telemetry is an advanced integrated system designed to monitor and manage the vehicle throughout its journey. Through a wireless network (satellite or radio), it is possible to pinpoint the truck's location and monitor various factors such as fuel consumption, vehicle and driver performance, system errors, and performance degradation.
This way, depending on the load you're transporting, you can set a speed limit and monitor whether the driver is actually following the rules. This data helps evaluate drivers and reward those who perform better.
Therefore, it's worth investing in this technology. It gives you full control over your fleet, increasing safety. Furthermore, it helps effectively predict maintenance needs. The result is reduced logistics costs and downtime, increasing the productivity of the logistics process.
RFID: the radio frequency tag as a tracking system
RFID tags go beyond cargo tracking. The term RFID can be translated as "Radio Frequency Identification." It's a communication and identification technology based on merchandise labeling. It has a short range but is still very useful in cargo transportation.
The tag emits a wave that reaches the transceiver and antenna, delivering all the information about the product. For example, RFID tags can be placed on humans, animals, goods, and packaging. The tag's radio wave signal is converted into digital data by a suitable reader, facilitating faster identification and tracking.
Unlike traditional barcodes, the label can be read without bringing the label near the reader. As mentioned, the labels emit radio signals, which are picked up by receivers and antennas.
Given the advantages it offers, the tool is valuable in deterring criminals through more accurate cargo tracking, as the location can be tracked in real time even when the cargo is removed from the truck.
Management software: options that do a more complete job
Freight transportation management software is a good choice because it's more comprehensive, meaning it can not only track but also perform other processes and actions that simplify management and improve quality. It allows you to monitor all phases of the transportation service.