GPS Tracking System for Container Location Management

With about 80% of all goods being carried by sea, losing visibility of your cargo’s location is not an option. Everyone involved—from the exporters to government authorities—needs to know exactly where the shipment is at any given moment.

A shipment passes through several checkpoints, so there’s always a risk of losing track of it. But with constant monitoring and tracking, you can make the journey much safer. 

What better way to tackle this age-old challenge than with modern technology? We are talking about GPS tracking, which has truly revolutionised container tracking, offering real-time updates and enhanced security.

This guide will explain how to choose the right GPS tracking system for your container location management and how that can benefit your business.

What is a Container Tracking System?

A Container Tracking System refers to the use of technology to monitor the real-time location and status of shipping containers as they move across seas and oceans. These systems can range from simple GPS trackers to comprehensive, AI-powered solutions.

With a container tracking system, you can follow your shipment from the point of origin to its final destination and get live updates (ETAs) on its movements. This visibility helps you avoid unexpected delays and gives you a heads-up if there are going to be any issues.

What are GPS Trackers for Containers?

Traditionally, container tracking relied on manual documentation, barcodes, and RFID tags:

• Manual Documentation: This method involved keeping detailed records by hand or on spreadsheets, which was time-consuming and prone to errors.
• Barcodes and RFID Tags: Containers were often fitted with barcodes or RFID (radio-frequency identification) tags. However, these methods required manual scanning and had a limited range, offering minimal real-time visibility.

Then came GPS trackers. They represent a significant milestone in container tracking, offering a more efficient and reliable solution. These devices are a cost-effective tool for monitoring both powered assets, such as dry van trailers and reefers, and unpowered assets, like shipping containers.

GPS trackers use the Global Positioning System (GPS) to determine the real-time location of the container. It continuously sends this location data to your asset tracking software so that you can keep an eye on your container.

What are the Main Features of a GPS Container Tracking System?

A GPS Container Tracking System offers a variety of features that improve the management, security, and efficiency of your shipping operations. Here are the main features:

Real-Time Location Tracking

The main feature is the ability to get the precise location of your container in real-time. Real-time data ensures you always know where your cargo is, whether it's safe, and if it’s on track to reach its destination on time. This level of visibility reduces the risk of lost or misplaced containers.

Geofencing

Geofencing allows you to set virtual boundaries around specific areas, such as ports or warehouses. 

For example, you can create a geofence around your warehouse so that when a container enters or leaves, the system automatically sends you an alert. This allows you to respond quickly to any unexpected movements.

Historical Data Logging

The system keeps detailed records of your container’s journey, including routes, stops, and any incidents. This data is useful for analysing performance, improving future logistics, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

Battery Life Monitoring

For battery-powered GPS trackers, the system usually has a feature to monitor battery life. This way, you’ll get alerts when the battery is running low, ensuring your tracker stays functional throughout the journey.

Durability and Weather Resistance

GPS tracking devices are designed to withstand harsh shipping conditions, including exposure to water, dust, and extreme temperatures. This durability ensures that it remains functional and reliable throughout the journey, regardless of temperature or terrain.

Data Security

Security features like encryption and authentication protect your tracking data from unauthorised access so that sensitive information about your shipments remains secure.

Global Connectivity 

Global connectivity is crucial to building an effective GPS container tracking system. This feature ensures that your system can stay connected and provide quick updates no matter where the container is located. 

Make sure your system supports automatic roaming and uses technologies like cellular networks (2G, LTE-M/NB-IoT), Bluetooth, LoRaWAN, or Sigfox to keep your tracker connected and up-to-date.

These features make the GPS tracking system a powerful tool for managing your shipping operations, providing you with the visibility, security, and control needed to ensure efficient logistics.

What are the Reasons to Use a GPS Container Tracking System?

Using a Container Tracking System comes with several benefits, including the following:

Improved Security

Cargo theft is a growing concern, with incidents in the US increasing by more than 57% in 2023 alone. Real-time visibility of your container’s location can help prevent theft and unauthorised access to your cargo. 

Continuous monitoring helps you quickly detect any route changes or unauthorised movements of your containers. This allows for rapid action, including alerting law enforcement, which increases the chances of recovering stolen goods.

Enhanced Supply Chain Management

By tracking your containers in real-time, you can anticipate delays, reroute shipments if necessary, and make informed decisions that keep your logistics running smoothly. This way, you avoid bottlenecks, and your supply chain remains efficient and responsive to changing conditions.

The enhanced visibility not only helps prevent costly mistakes but also reduces the risk of delays that could lead to additional expenses like demurrage, detention, and port storage charges.

Also Read: Guide To Understanding Common Port Charges And Dues

Compliance and Reporting

Staying compliant with industry regulations is important, especially when transporting perishable goods like food, pharmaceuticals, or chemicals. A container tracking system provides the accurate data and detailed logs needed to meet these strict requirements. 

For example, in cold chain logistics, it’s essential to prove that the proper conditions were maintained throughout the journey. Another advantage of precise tracking is that you can easily demonstrate compliance during audits and inquiries.

Operational Efficiency

With accurate tracking data, you can streamline your logistics processes, reducing waste and inefficiency. This saves money and frees up resources to focus on growth and innovation.

Sustainability Goals

An interesting advantage of tracking systems is that they can offer insights into fuel consumption and emissions, helping you take steps toward reducing your environmental impact. This can help your business meet its sustainability goals and align with the growing global demands for eco-friendly practices.

Transparency for Customers and Stakeholders

If there’s an issue or delay in the shipment, your customers and stakeholders would want to be informed promptly. A container tracking system helps you provide updates on the location and status of shipments so that everyone involved has clear visibility into the process. 

Additionally, if customers hear about shipment issues from other sources before you inform them, it can damage your reputation. By keeping them in the loop directly, you maintain their trust and confidence.

Streamline Operations with Automation

A container tracking system can automate various procedures, such as sending alerts, updating logs, and generating reports. This automation reduces the need for manual intervention, saving time and minimising the risk of human error. While automation takes care of these processes, your team can focus on strategic tasks.

Now that the advantages are out of the way, let's get into understanding everything about GPS Tracking Systems—from different types of tracking systems to how to choose the right one for your business.

Types of GPS Tracking Systems

Here’s a breakdown of the different types of GPS tracking systems available, each offering unique benefits depending on your needs:

1. Active GPS Tracking: Active GPS tracking provides real-time monitoring of your containers, offering precise data transmission and route planning capabilities. This type of system is ideal for theft prevention, as it allows you to react quickly to any unauthorised movements. Additionally, by optimising routes and preventing delays, active GPS tracking can help reduce overall operational costs.
2. Passive GPS Tracking: Passive GPS systems don’t provide real-time data. Instead, they store information about the container’s journey, which can be accessed later. This makes passive GPS tracking a cost-effective option for businesses that don’t require constant monitoring but still want to analyse data for operational efficiency and asset security.
3. Hybrid GPS Tracking: Hybrid systems combine the best of both active and passive GPS tracking. They offer real-time tracking when you need it and store historical data for later analysis. 
4. Geofencing: Geofencing allows you to set up virtual boundaries around specific areas. When your container enters or exits these boundaries, you receive instant alerts. This helps you ensure that your cargo stays on the intended path.
5. Cellular Tracking: Cellular tracking systems use mobile networks to monitor your containers. While they are generally more cost-effective than satellite-based GPS, they offer less accuracy. However, cellular tracking provides a sufficient and budget-friendly solution for many applications where pinpoint accuracy isn’t critical.

By understanding these different types of GPS tracking systems, you can choose the one that best suits your needs, whether it’s for real-time monitoring, cost-effective tracking, or enhanced security features.

How Does a GPS Container Tracking System Work?

• A GPS container tracking system begins with placing a GPS tracking device on your shipping container. These devices are typically mounted on the exterior of the container in a secure, weather-resistant location so that they remain functional throughout the journey.
• Once mounted, the GPS device uses sensors and a cellular or satellite connection to determine the container’s location.
• The device then sends this location data to a central server, either through a satellite network for global coverage or via cellular networks when within range. This ensures continuous tracking, regardless of the container's location.
• The transmitted data is processed and made available in your asset tracking software. 
• The data can then typically be accessed via web platforms or mobile apps. Using the data, your stakeholders can monitor the container’s location and status from anywhere.

Choosing the Right GPS Tracking System

Here are some key factors to consider while choosing the right GPS-tracking system for your business:

Accuracy

The accuracy of the GPS tracking system is undoubtedly the most important factor. Precise location data is essential for reliable tracking so that you can confidently monitor your containers. 

When evaluating systems, go for those that offer high accuracy, especially if you need to track your shipments in real-time or in areas with complex logistics.

Battery Life

If you are looking for a GPS tracking system for long-haul shipments, battery life should be one of your major deciding factors. A GPS system with long-lasting batteries can track continuously without interruptions.

Keep in mind that tracking frequency—how often the system updates the container’s location—can impact battery life. So, try to go for systems that allow you to adjust the tracking intervals. Also, make sure you include a battery monitoring system to get frequent updates about its condition.

Tracking Frequency

The frequency of location updates is another important consideration. Depending on your needs, you may prefer more frequent updates for real-time monitoring or less frequent updates to conserve battery life. 

Choose a system that offers flexibility in setting these intervals so you can balance timely updates with efficient battery management.

Ease of Use

A user-friendly GPS tracking system makes the entire process smoother. Look for systems with intuitive interfaces, clear displays, and straightforward installation processes.

This ensures that your team can quickly adapt to the system, reducing the learning curve and minimising the risk of errors.

Durability

Your GPS device needs to be tough and durable as it has to survive long journeys and tough shipping conditions. Opt for a system that is both practical and portable, with design variations that suit different container types and shipping environments. 

No rain, storm, snowfall or humidity would be able to impact your logistic process if you choose systems that are weather-proof! 

Size and Weight

GPS tracking systems come in various sizes and weights. Depending on your needs, you might opt for a compact, lightweight unit that’s easy to attach to containers. Some smaller devices may lack advanced features, so it’s essential to balance size and functionality based on your specific requirements. 

Power Supply

GPS tracking systems can be powered in different ways, depending on the technology used. Some systems are container-powered, drawing energy directly from the container's power source. This provides a continuous power supply.

Others are battery-operated, offering greater portability and flexibility. However, they require regular recharging or battery replacement.

Integration

The whole point of tracking is to get real-time location data and share it with all stakeholders. For this process to work seamlessly, your GPS tracking system must be compatible with your existing logistics and supply chain systems. So, choose a system that plays well with all your other tools.

Communication Technology

The type of communication technology used by the GPS system affects its performance. Systems using satellite communication provide global coverage and real-time updates, making them ideal for international shipments. 

On the other hand, cellular-based systems are more affordable but may offer limited coverage depending on the location.

Focusing on these factors, choose a GPS tracking system that meets your business needs and enhances your logistics operations.

Track your Shipments with Pazago

International trade involves many moving parts, from coordinating shipments to ensuring timely communication with all parties involved. Bringing all these elements together can be a difficult task. 

That’s where Pazago enters to simplify the entire process. Pazago offers comprehensive oversight of your cargo to ensure it arrives on time and in perfect condition.

Here’s how Pazago makes trading smooth and secure:

• Real-Time Cargo Monitoring: Keep a close watch on your shipments with real-time tracking across the supply chain. With Pazago, you can track goods from over 180 shipping companies across 110+ countries, ensuring you always know where your cargo is.
• Proactive Inventory Management: Get instant alerts if there’s a delay so you can adjust your inventory plans before it becomes an issue. Stay ahead of potential problems and keep everything running smoothly.
• Timely Notifications: Pazago keeps you updated with timely notifications and auto-reminders, helping you plan your logistics without any last-minute surprises.
• Centralised Trade Communication: Coordinate effortlessly with all trade partners in one shared inbox. Pazago ensures smooth communication and collaboration so that everyone is on the same page.
• Scalable Solutions: As your trade operations expand, Pazago scales up with you. The platform is designed to adapt to your growing needs so that you always have the tools necessary to manage increased demand.
• Reliable Cargo Insurance: Pazago offers fully digital cargo insurance that’s easy to claim, giving you peace of mind that your shipments are protected every step of the way.
• Smooth Cross-Border Transactions: Pazago lets you enjoy priority clearance and the best forex rates, making your global payments smooth and cost-effective.

Pazago knows that live alerts not only meet business needs but also bring peace of mind, keeping your days stress-free. 

Turn Uncertainty into Clarity – Get real-time insights with Pazago.

Conclusion

Real-time location data? ✅ 

Cost management? ✅

Keeping stakeholders informed? ✅ 

A well-managed supply chain?✅ 

GPS tracking systems tick all these crucial boxes and more. By choosing the right tracking system, you can simplify your logistics operations, reduce potential risks, and keep your trade running smoothly.

With Pazago, you get 24/7 shipment tracking and instant alerts, so you’re always in the know. But it doesn’t stop there—it is a complete solution that helps you manage every aspect of your trade operations. 

This means your shipments can sail smoothly across the Arabian Sea while you work stress-free in your office in Mumbai, Delhi, Punjab, or wherever you are.

Take Charge of Your Logistics – Sign up with Pazago and manage your shipments effortlessly.

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