What is Geofencing?
Geofencing is the practice of managing asset monitoring through the use of virtual boundaries and monitoring GPS-equipped vehicles as they move around real-world locations. As vehicles move through an area, or across a boundary, alerts are triggered within fleet management software providing fleet managers with real-time information on vehicle location.
Easily configurable, geofences are frequently applied to jobsites, customer locations, preferred routes, and more, to help both authorized and unauthorized movement of equipment. Typical use cases include the following:
- Improve visibility on where fleet assets are located for better utilization
- Recieve confirmation that a driver has reached a specific location such as a jobsite or delivery site
- Managing restricted zones on a jobsite
- After hours vehicle monitoring – theft prevention
- Tracking deviation from preferred delivery routes
- Tool tracking across jobsites
The wide range of applications make geofences an incredibly valuable tool that be shaped to the needs of each individual fleet. Pair with discreet and rugged asset tracking tools to create a well rounded GPS-based fleet management strategy.
Types Of Geofencing
The type of geofence deployed will likely result in the specific need that you are addressing, and potentially the fleet that you are managing. Three different types of geofences are available, each with varying applications and setup processes, arranged below in order of complexity.
Geographic Radius
Perhaps the most popular form of geofencing, and the quickest to deploy, is a circular geofence around a specific point on the map. You select the epicenter of the geofence and a specific mile radius, it is simple yet highly effective. This could be your service fleet’s primary office, a customer’s delivery location, or a yard where equipment is stored.
Route-Based
Looking to keep your drivers on the most efficient routes and reduce fuel consumption? If so, a route-based geofencing strategy might be your best option. Designate preferred routes along a specific corridor and get alerts when drivers deviate from the designated path. This is a great option for fleets traveling consistent routes, such as service fleets or OTR trucking companies.
Point and Plot
The most complex and detailed type of geofencing is point and plot. Customization is the hallmark of this type of geofence, as markers can be placed with pinpoint accuracy along boundary edges. This can be particularly useful if you are creating restricted zones around construction sites, designating maintenance areas, or to establish law enforcement jurisdictions. The drawback to point and plot is that it is much less flexible than setting a circular geofence, so it may only make sense if you know that the geofence will not need to be changed or updated frequently.
Plot and point can also be combined with a circular geofence that covers a wider area for added theft prevention. Unauthorized use can be tracked across multiple geofences making it easier to track and increase the likelihood of vehicle or tool recovery should theft occur.
Geo Fencing With Morey
Asset monitoring continues to evolve, and Geo Fencing is quickly becoming an essential tool for fleet managers. Whether you are looking to more easily monitor asset movement, reduce the likelihood of vehicle or tool theft, better manage jobsites, or improve route management, geofencing can help. Connect with our team and schedule your demo today to see how geofencing can impact your fleet management process.