Everything you need to know about GPS tracking

GPS tracking is the technology behind every vehicle tracking system, journey log and track & trace system supplied by TrackJack. But how exactly does it work? Which tracker is right for your situation? And what benefits does it offer in practice? On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know about GPS tracking, from the technology to its applications.

How does GPS tracking work?

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. The system uses a network of satellites that continuously transmit signals to Earth. A GPS receiver in your tracker picks up these signals and, based on the time differences between multiple satellites, calculates the exact position, accurate to within a few metres.

In addition to GPS, TrackJack also uses GLONASS, the Russian satellite network. Using two systems simultaneously means more satellites, greater accuracy and fewer blind spots in tunnels or dense urban areas. The location data is transmitted in real time via the mobile network (4G/LTE) to your secure online account and the TrackJack app.

Want to understand the technology even better? Read our explanation of how GPS works and how it differs from other positioning systems.

What can you track with GPS tracking?

GPS tracking can be used for virtually anything that drives, sails or can be moved. TrackJack supplies trackers for cars and vans for journey logging, track & trace and theft protection; for lorries and vans for fleet management and route optimisation; for boats and vessels with a tracker powered by a battery or mains supply; for containers and equipment without a fixed power supply, using a powerful battery; and for motorhomes and caravans for security and location management whilst parked.

Cars and vans: for journey tracking, track & trace and theft protection. Read more about the GPS tracker for cars.
Lorries and vans: for fleet management and route optimisation.
Boats and vessels: with a tracker that runs on battery or mains power. View our GPS tracker solutions.
Containers and equipment: without a fixed power supply, powered by a powerful battery. Read more about the GPS tracker with an extremely powerful battery.
Motorhomes and caravans: for security and location management whilst parked.

Which GPS tracker suits your situation?

Choosing the right tracker depends on three factors: does the object have a fixed power supply, what do you want to achieve with it, and which subscription suits your usage?

With power supply: the built-in tracker

For cars, vans and lorries, our technicians install a tracker that operates directly from the vehicle’s power supply. The tracker is always active, automatically records every journey and transmits real-time location data. This forms the basis for tax-compliant journey logging with the RitRegistratieSystemen Quality Mark.

Without power supply: the battery-powered tracker

For containers, trailers, equipment or boats without a power connection, TrackJack supplies a tracker powered by a high-capacity battery. Depending on the model, the battery lasts from months to years. Read more about the GPS tracker with an extremely powerful battery.

Not sure which tracker you need?

View the full overview of all GPS tracker solutions or request a quote. We’re happy to help you find the right solution.

What are the benefits of GPS tracking?

GPS tracking is more than just knowing where your vehicle is. Depending on your application, it offers you:

Tax-compliant journey logging: every journey automatically recorded, ready for the tax authorities. Read more about automatic journey logging.
Theft protection: an immediate alert if your vehicle moves outside set times or zones. Read more about theft protection with a GPS tracker.
Fleet management: insight into driving behaviour, fuel consumption and maintenance schedules for every vehicle in your fleet.
Real-time location: see exactly where every vehicle or piece of equipment is, even when it’s not moving.
CO2 insights: reports on emissions per vehicle and per journey, useful for sustainability reporting.

GPS tracking and privacy

GPS tracking of employees is permitted under the GDPR, provided certain conditions are met. Employees must be informed in advance about the tracking, the purpose must be legitimate, and private journeys must not be tracked. TrackJack works with a privacy switch that allows employees to disable location tracking during private journeys. Read more about journey tracking and privacy.

Frequently asked questions about GPS tracking

How accurate is GPS tracking?

TrackJack combines GPS and GLONASS for an average accuracy of 2 to 5 metres. In tunnels or dense urban areas, accuracy may decrease slightly, but the system automatically compensates for this as soon as the signal returns.

Does GPS tracking also work abroad?

Yes. TrackJack works throughout Europe via the international mobile network. Journeys and locations abroad are automatically recorded, including for journey logging.

Does GPS tracking require a subscription?

Yes. In addition to the hardware, a service subscription is required for data transmission, the online portal and the app. TrackJack offers various subscriptions depending on your usage and the number of vehicles.

Is GPS tracking visible to the driver?

Yes, via the TrackJack app, the driver always has insight into their own journeys and location data. Transparency towards employees is also a GDPR requirement.

Ready to get started with GPS tracking?
TrackJack supplies trackers for every vehicle and every application, from journey logging to fleet management and theft protection.

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