How GPS and Fleet Tracking Improve Rental Equipment Efficiency

Using GPS and fleet tracking on rental equipment can significantly boost productivity and save money in both oil and gas and construction projects. When equipment is tracked in real time, crews know exactly where machines are, which helps them work efficiently and reduces idle time. A study from United Rentals showed that customers using GPS tracking “cut their annual rental costs by up to a third” simply by using utilization reports to monitor usage. (United Rentals).

For oil and gas operations, security and safety are major concerns. Modern asset-tracking systems utilize geofence alerts to notify managers when equipment moves out of approved zones or is used outside of authorized hours. According to Verizon Connect, this helps “strengthen security efforts” and enables companies to recover stolen equipment quickly (Verizon Connect). It also supports compliance with safety regulations by tracking usage and behavior.

In addition to safety and location tracking, GPS telematics reveal equipment health and performance. Real-time diagnostics display engine hours, fuel consumption, idle time, and maintenance requirements. Platforms like Cat Rental’s telematics service report that combining GPS with performance monitoring “helps fleet managers and crews make informed decisions about assets,” which reduces downtime and avoids costly failures (linxio.com).

By analyzing usage data, fleet managers can see when machines are underused or overused. If units sit idle too long, companies can return them early and save costs. If usage increases, they can add equipment before delays happen. This flexible renting approach, driven by data insights, enhances efficiency on any jobsite. Companies can return equipment early to cut costs, and if usage runs high, they can add more gear before delays occur. This data-driven renting strategy improves efficiency across any jobsite.

Lastly, GPS tracking supports better customer service. Rental brokers can share the live location and usage of equipment with clients, providing precise delivery ETAs. That transparency fosters trust and facilitates smoother coordination.

In summary, GPS and fleet tracking offer multiple benefits to rental equipment, including reduced costs, improved security, enhanced maintenance support, and improved customer communication. For oil and gas, as well as construction companies, these technologies make rental fleets more efficient, predictable, and reliable.

Sources

The Benefits of GPS Tracking for Construction Equipment – United Rentals
https://www.unitedrentals.com/project-uptime/data/benefits-gps-tracking-construction-equipment

5 Benefits of Oil and Gas Asset Tracking Software – Verizon Connect
https://www.verizonconnect.com/resources/article/5-benefits-of-oil-and-gas-asset-tracking-software/

Telematics – The Cat Rental Store
https://www.catrentalstore.com/en_US/technology/telematics.html