The Complete Guide to Asset Tracking Systems

What is Asset Tracking?

Asset tracking uses GPS, cellular networks, satellite communications, and IoT sensors to monitor the real-time location and condition of physical assets—trailers, containers, chassis, railcars, and equipment. Modern asset tracking goes beyond simple location to include door status, temperature, humidity, shock detection, and cargo security monitoring.

Unlike powered vehicle telematics that rely on vehicle electronics, asset tracking for trailers and containers uses independent, often solar-powered devices that operate for years without external power or maintenance.

Types of Asset Tracking

Asset tracking solutions are designed for different equipment types and tracking requirements:

Vehicle Telematics (tractors/trucks)

Integrated tracking systems for powered vehicles that connect to vehicle electronics and engine diagnostics. Key features include real-time GPS location with frequent updates, engine diagnostics via OBD-II or J1939 connections, driver behavior monitoring (speeding, braking, idling), fuel consumption and efficiency tracking, and integration with ELD for Hours of Service compliance. Best for carriers needing combined asset tracking and fleet management for tractors and trucks.

Trailer Tracking

Independent tracking devices for unpowered trailers that operate autonomously without connection to a tractor. Key features include solar-powered or long-life battery operation (3-7+ years), door open/close sensors for cargo security, temperature monitoring for refrigerated trailers, dwell time tracking at customer sites and yards, and geofencing with arrival/departure alerts. Best for carriers, lessors, and shippers needing visibility into trailer location and utilization across their network.

Container / Chassis Tracking

Ruggedized tracking for intermodal containers and chassis operating in harsh port and rail environments. Key features include global connectivity with satellite + cellular for ocean and rail movements, extreme durability for port handling and stacking, multi-modal visibility across ocean, rail, and drayage, smart container sensors for temperature, humidity, and shock, and chassis pool management for intermodal operations. Best for container lessors, intermodal operators, and shippers requiring end-to-end visibility for international supply chains.

Why Asset Tracking Matters

Without asset visibility, operations suffer from:

• Lost assets: Trailers parked at customer sites for weeks or months
• Detention costs: Inability to locate empty equipment for pickup
• Theft and cargo loss: No real-time security monitoring
• Utilization blindness: Unknown dwell times and asset productivity
• Customer service failures: Inability to provide accurate ETAs

Core Asset Tracking Technologies

1. Connectivity Options

• Cellular (LTE/4G/5G): Real-time updates in coverage areas
• Satellite: Global coverage including oceans and remote areas
• LPWAN (LoRa, Sigfox): Low power for long battery life
• Dual-mode: Cellular primary with satellite fallback

2. Power Solutions

• Solar-powered: Indefinite operation with minimal maintenance
• Long-life battery: 3-7+ year battery life with optimized reporting
• Rechargeable: USB or dock charging for indoor equipment
• Trailer power: Tapping into trailer lighting circuits when connected

3. Condition Monitoring

• Door sensors: Open/close detection for security
• Temperature: Continuous monitoring for reefer and cold chain
• Humidity: Moisture protection for sensitive cargo
• Shock/vibration: Impact detection for fragile shipments
• Light sensors: Detect unauthorized container access

Key Selection Criteria

1. Coverage Requirements

Evaluate where assets travel—domestic only may work with cellular; international or remote operations need satellite backup.

2. Update Frequency

Balance visibility needs against battery life. Real-time tracking (every 2-5 minutes) consumes more power than periodic updates (hourly or daily).

3. Hardware Durability

Trailers and containers operate in harsh conditions. Look for IP67/IP68 ratings, wide temperature ranges, and ruggedized construction.

4. Integration Capabilities

Asset tracking should feed data into TMS, WMS, and dispatch systems. Evaluate API capabilities and pre-built integrations.

5. Total Cost of Ownership

Consider hardware cost, monthly data fees, installation, and replacement cycles. Solar-powered devices have higher upfront cost but lower ongoing expenses.

Asset Tracking ROI

Organizations typically see returns through:

• Detention reduction: 20-40% decrease in detention and demurrage
• Improved utilization: 10-20% more turns per trailer
• Theft prevention: Reduced cargo theft through monitoring and alerts
• Dwell time reduction: Faster trailer retrieval from customer sites
• Customer service: Accurate ETAs and proactive exception notification

Getting Started

Explore asset tracking solutions in our Asset Tracking comparison tool to find platforms that match your fleet and visibility requirements.