Top 5 U.S. Vehicle Tracking Providers Compared
Looking for vehicle tracking software for your business? Make sure you’ve checked out our comparison before
Top 5 U.S. Vehicle Tracking Providers Compared
Looking for vehicle tracking software for your business? Make sure you’ve checked out our comparison before making your decision!
If your business relies on vehicles and you’re not using fleet tracking systems, then you are putting yourself at a serious disadvantage. They come with a whole host of benefits that extend far beyond just knowing where your vehicles are. Cost savings, increased productivity, and enhanced security are all ready to be taken advantage of.
Don’t know where to start? Don’t worry about it; we’ve got you covered. Here, we’ll take you through five of the U.S.’s leading fleet tracking providers, their pros and cons, and what they can offer your business.
What is a Vehicle Tracking System?
A vehicle tracking system is a type of technology designed to monitor the location, status, and other key metrics of one or multiple vehicles. Typically, they will come in two parts: vehicle tracking hardware and vehicle tracking software. The hardware attaches to your vehicle(s) and then relays key information for you to monitor on the software via GPS.
These systems can help monitor:
- Exact vehicle location
- Speed
- Route
- Stops
- Idle times
- Driver behavior (dangerous driving, like speeding or harsh braking)
Vehicle Tracking GPS systems come in two types: active and passive systems:
An active GPS tracking system continuously records location and performance data and then transmits it to the software in real time. This allows you to make decisions on the fly and respond to incidents and route changes immediately.
A passive system records the same information as an active system, but then stores it in an internal memory system, like an SD card. Only once the vehicle has returned can you access this data and view it as a historical log.
What are the Benefits of Vehicle Tracking Systems?
Real-Time Visibility & Tracking
GPS vehicle tracking provides full visibility over your entire operation in real-time. Fleet managers can identify the precise location of every vehicle, as well as key metrics like speed, direction, planned route, and route history. This allows for more accurate ETAs, easier dispatching, and better overall coordination, especially if you’re overseeing multiple vehicles at once.
Emergency Response & Theft Recovery
In emergencies such as breakdowns, accidents, or theft, GPS tracking ensures rapid response by pinpointing exact vehicle locations for first responders or law enforcement. Some systems will even offer engine kill switches, so in the event of a theft, you can render the vehicle useless and stop it dead in its tracks. Geofencing features also allow you to set a digital perimeter, which alerts you once the vehicle leaves this designated zone.
Productivity & Time Management
Time card padding and tracking every stop, start, and break is now a thing of the past with fleet tracking software. Virtual timecards foster an environment of accountability while ensuring accurate payroll reporting. Real-time insights into delays or detours allow better scheduling and reduced downtime, meaning deliveries are made on time, keeping your customers happy and your reputation intact.
Route Planning & Optimization
GPS systems analyze live traffic, road closures, and construction updates to create optimized routes. Systems will take these factors into account and automatically recalibrate the route to minimize disruptions and save on fuel costs. Some may also identify points of interest, such as gas stations or service centers, for a smoother experience.
Driver Behavior & Accountability
Unsafe driving behaviors such as speeding, harsh braking, and aggressive acceleration can all be easily identified by fleet managers. These can then be used in targeted training sessions to improve their skills. It also deters any unauthorized use of company vehicles for private activities.
Maintenance Monitoring & Cost Control
Keeping on top of routine maintenance has never been easier than with fleet tracking systems. Service intervals for oil changes, tire rotations, and other key maintenance tasks can be automatically brought to your attention. These are key to preventing breakdowns, extending vehicle lifespans, improving fuel economy, and lowering repair costs.
Fuel & Insurance Cost Reduction
You don’t need us to tell you that the price of fuel these days isn’t what it used to be. By reducing idle time, optimizing routes, and monitoring driver behaviors, GPS tracking can cut these costs by over 10%. You can also save on insurance costs, as many providers will provide discounts for fleets using GPS tracking, since the technology reduces risky behavior, deters theft, and provides data to dispute false claims.
Customer Satisfaction & Service Quality
By offering your customers real-time updates, proof of service, and accurate ETAs, your customer satisfaction levels will go through the roof. Dispatch teams can instantly send the nearest driver to urgent jobs, while traffic monitoring helps avoid missed appointments.
Operational Control & Peace of Mind
Fuel costs aren’t the only thing vehicle tracking systems lower; your stress levels will also drop through the floor. Instead of relying on guesswork and hoping for the best, fleet managers can make quick, accurate, data-driven decisions when situations arise.
System Integration & Automation
Modern GPS tracking systems integrate seamlessly with other essential platforms such as ERP, CRM, and dispatching software. This facilitates automated reporting, streamlines workflows, and minimizes the risk of human error.
Vehicle Utilization & Asset Management
By monitoring idle times, usage patterns, and deployment frequency, you can avoid underutilized vehicles and maximize ROI on every asset. This level of insight reduces waste, improves efficiency, and helps fleets get more done with fewer vehicles.
Top 5 Vehicle Tracking Companies Compared: Our Verdict
Just before we get to our verdict, we just need to point out that this isn’t a ranking table. Think of it more as a comparison between 5 of the best systems out there, their pros and cons, and how they can help your business. This way, you have a more informed opinion when it’s time to choose who you want to partner with.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Verizon Connect | Enterprise-level fleets and advanced features |
| Samsara | AI-powered insights and video telematics |
| GPS Insight | Customizable tracking & telematics |
| Azuga | Safety-focused small to medium fleets |
| Motive | FMCSA-compliant ELD & GPS tracking |
- Pros
- Customizable dashboard.
- Supports all fleet sizes.
- Works in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
- Offers dashboard cams and compliance software.
- Road support for various vehicles and fleet assets.
- U.S.-based support teams.
- Cons
- Some reports of a steep learning curve.
- Verizon’s default contract length is 36 months, offering less flexibility.
- All prices are custom, meaning there is no transparent pricing.
First up, we’ve got one of the big boys in the fleet management world, Verizon Connect. Operating across 18 different countries, they are known for their innovations, automation, and connected data to help their customers get the most out of every mile on the road. Every year, when awards season comes around, they clean up, and it’s easy to see why when they produce systems of this quality.
Verizon’s Core Features
- Near‑real‑time GPS fleet tracking
- Alerts for behaviors like speeding, harsh braking, and excessive idling
- Geofencing capabilities
- Vehicle diagnostics & maintenance monitoring
- Electric vehicle (EV) support: battery level, charging status, alerts for low battery
- Customizable dashboards
- Advanced analytics and reports across teams, departments, and whole fleets
- Integrated video/dashcams
- Mobile apps (Android & iOS)
- Route optimization and navigation support
Why Verizon Connect?
Flexibility & customizability: Customize dashboards to your liking. Security/access levels, workflows/scripts, can also be tailored to meet your fleet’s specific needs.
Scalable: Verizon’s systems are just as useful for small operations as they are for large enterprise-level fleets. They can also grow with your business, making them the perfect choice now and in five years’ time.
Wide geographic reach: If you operate north or south of the border, then Verizon has you covered as its systems work across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
End‑to‑end platform: Verizon offers multiple telematics needs (tracking, driver behavior, maintenance, compliance, video) rather than only a single point solution.
Strong Support: Post-sale, you will benefit from onboarding, training, and ongoing support from locally based teams.
Compliance tools: e.g., electronic logging devices (ELDs) for hours of service (HOS)
- Pros
- Combines tracking, diagnostics, safety, and compliance in a single interface.
- Offers real-time data on multiple vehicle locations.
- Uses smart video analytics and dashcams to flag unsafe driving behavior.
- Sends maintenance alerts based on live vehicle diagnostics and condition.
- Tracks fuel consumption to help improve fuel economy.
- Offers built-in driver tools like onboarding checklists and performance scorecards.
- Cons
- Setup can be costly due to the need for initial hardware and licensing.
- Functions poorly in areas with weak or no internet.
- Lack of customization for workflows and the dashboard.
- Some users note delays or inaccuracies in the "real-time" tracking experience.
Samsara is truly one of the giants of the game when it comes to fleet tracking devices. Today, they have tens of thousands of transportation, construction, warehousing, field services, and the public sector. Combining GPS telematics, AI-enabled safety & driver coaching, equipment & asset tracking, site security, electrification, and workflow tools, these are some of the best systems on the market.
Samsara’s Core Features
- Vehicle Inventory Management
- Fuel Management
- Vehicle Maintenance Scheduling
- Real-Time Vehicle Tracking
- Driver Onboarding
- Driver Safety Monitoring
- Driver Behavior Analysis
- Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) Calculation
- Proof of Delivery Capture
- Route Optimization
- Vehicle Performance Analytics
- Cost Analytics
- Integrated Dashcam System
Why Choose Samsara?
Unified Platform: Get everything you need for safe, efficient, and compliant operations all through one system. GPS, dashcams, telematics, and compliance software are centralized into a single interface.
Real-Time Insights: No waiting around when it comes to knowing exactly what’s happening on the road. Get up-to-the-minute data on driver behavior, fuel usage, diagnostics, and routes.
Safety Automation: Samsara is at the cutting edge of implementing AI technology. AI-driven dashcams, event alerts, safety scores, and coaching features are all available to streamline your operations.
Compliance Ready: Stay compliant and avoid fines and damaging your reputation from regulations breaches with full ELD, HOS, DVIR, and IFTA support in one platform.
Environmental Tracking: With stricter and stricter emissions regulations coming in every year, Samsara allows you to track your carbon and fuel usage, reporting to support sustainability goals.
- Pros
- Real-time GPS tracking.
- Custom alerts for speeding, idling, and geofencing.
- Detailed reporting on driver behavior and vehicle condition.
- Automated maintenance alerts so you stay one step ahead of breakdowns.
- Driver score cards to help with coaching and safe driving practices.
- Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users with an outdated interface.
- Limitations on dashboard and report customization.
- Mobile app lacks the same features found on the desktop version.
- Reports of GPS interruption in areas with limited service.
- Reports of struggles with the integration of third-party software.
GPS Insight offers comprehensive fleet tracking and management solutions that enhance safety, increase productivity, and lower operating costs. With a wide range of industries on their books, their systems adapt to meet the specific needs of each business. They’re backed by a portfolio of trusted brands that deliver scalable, results-driven performance.
GPS Insight’s Core Features
- Vehicle Inventory Management
- Fuel Management
- Maintenance Scheduling
- Real-Time Vehicle Tracking
- Driver Onboarding Tools
- Driver Safety Monitoring
- Driver Behavior Analysis
- Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) Calculations
- Proof of Delivery Capture
- Route Optimization
- Vehicle Performance Analytics
- Cost Analytics
- Geofencing Alerts
- Idle Time Monitoring
- Customizable Dashboard
Why Choose GPS Insight?
All-in-One Fleet & Field Management: Telematics, video telematics, dash cam, field safety, and compliance tools all through one centralized system.
Scalable for Any Fleet Size: GPS insights cover the whole spectrum of businesses. From construction to government, transportation to field services, no matter your industry or fleet size, they’ve got something for you.
Strong Maintenance & Compliance Tools: Benefit from scheduling, alerts, HOS tracking, and driver compliance support, including ELD compliance.
Driver Scorecards & Behavior Insights: Rank your team on their driving and performance, which can then be used to coach and reward drivers based on performance metrics.
Multi-Device Friendly: Real-time visibility and alerts, like geofencing breaches and performance analytics, can be monitored via dedicated apps.
- Pros
- Excellent safety tools, including a unique seat belt alert.
- Includes weather alerts and geofencing notifications.
- 30-second refresh rate for live GPS tracking.
- Strong ELD/HOS/DVIR support for regulatory compliance.
- Easy-to-use mobile app with reward tools and real-time data.
- Cons
- No third-party GPS hardware integration.
- No crash detection or reporting features built in.
- No free trials unless you operate 30+ vehicles.
- Feature limitations in lower-tier plans.
Since 2013, Azuga has committed to making fleets safer, more efficient, and more cost‑effective. With each passing year, they’ve continuously delivered GPS fleet and asset tracking, driver safety tools, route optimization, and maintenance management with a focus on driver‑friendly technology. Their solutions use diagnostics, rewards, and real‑time insights so fleet owners, drivers, and their businesses all benefit.
Azuga’s Core Features
- GPS Fleet Tracking (30-second refresh)
- Driver Safety Alerts (including unique seat belt alert)
- Driver Scorecards
- Harsh event detection (braking, cornering, acceleration)
- Geofencing
- Weather alerts
- Custom Alerts (speeding, idling, etc.)
- Fuel Usage Monitoring & Reporting
- Engine Diagnostics (DTC codes)
Why Choose Azuga?
Safety-First Platform: Azuga prioritizes the safety of your drivers above all else. Their systems come with advanced behavior tracking, scorecards, and seat belt usage alerts.
Real-time Tracking: Easily stay on top of multiple vehicles at once with their real-time tracking features that refresh every 30 seconds.
Route Optimization & Scheduling: Find the most efficient routes and react to situations in real-time to streamline deliveries, provide ETAs to customers, and reduce your fuel costs.
Simple Installation: There’s no messing around when it comes to setting up Azuga systems. Plug and play to get you up and running in no time.
ELD & DVIR Compliance: Avoid fines and reputation damage by utilizing the compliance features that keep you on the right side of HOS regulations.
Motive (formerly KeepTruckin)
Best for fleets needing FMCSA-compliant ELD and GPS tracking
- Pros
- Compatible with dual or team driver configurations.
- Offers 24/7customer support.
- Motive’s ELD hardware is easily accessible at major truck stop retailers like Pilot Flying J.
- Provides a zero-fee Motive Card for discounted fuel rates and fleet-related purchases.
- Cons
- No transparent pricing.
- Some customers have reported issues with billing.
- Non-critical accident footage can be difficult to get hold of on lower-tiered plans.
And last but not least, we’ve got Motive, whose systems are built to scale across industries, from transportation to construction and everything in between. Over the years, they’ve helped countless businesses improve their safety monitoring, spending, and workforce management with their AI-enabled tracking software. They’re consistently recognized for their excellence, including sweeping the G2 awards, being named a leader across the Enterprise, Mid‑Market, and Small Business sectors.
Motive’s Core Features
- Vehicle Inventory Management
- Fuel Management
- Vehicle Maintenance Scheduling
- Real-Time Vehicle Tracking
- Driver Onboarding
- Driver Safety Monitoring
- Driver Behavior Analysis
- Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) for Deliveries
- Vehicle Performance Analytics
- Driver Performance Analytics
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Hours Logged
- Preventive Maintenance Based on ELD Data
- Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIR)
- Integrated Dashcam Functionality
- Safety Score Calculation
- Route Optimization
- Geofencing Alerts
Why Choose Motive?
Automates Operations: From ELD logging to route planning and maintenance, all workflows are streamlined, boosting productivity for not only your deliveries, but business-wise.
AI-powered Telematics: Driver behavior and vehicle diagnostic insights are all centralized through one system and elevated by harnessing the power of AI.
Real-time Alerts: Get immediate updates on violations, incidents, geofence breaches, or vehicle health issues, allowing you to react to them in real-time.
Strong Compliance Reporting: ELD, DVIR, IFTA, driver qualification, and CSA management are all stored in one centralized system, helping you to minimize compliance breaches.
Extensive Integration Options: Seamlessly integrate with other third-party software you already use, including payroll, maintenance, and logistics platforms.
How to Choose the Best Vehicle Tracking Software For Your Business
Type of System
Remember when we discussed active and passive systems at the top of this page? No? That’s okay, all you need to know is that active systems give you real-time data, while passive ones you have to review after each trip.
If you operate in areas where conditions are constantly changing, think urban environments or ones prone to adverse weather, then an active system is essential. This is because you will need to make on-the-spot decisions in response to these changes. Yes, they may cost more and may require a monthly subscription, but the level of insight they offer is unmatched.
If budget is more of a concern or you live in, let’s say, a more “boring” area when it comes to hauls, then passive could be the way to go. They’re easier to set up, cheaper to purchase, and you likely won’t have to pay an additional monthly fee.
Fleet Size & Type
Some providers will have features that are more suited to larger fleets. AI analytics and the ability to oversee tens or even hundreds of vehicles at once are great for a multi-vehicle fleet. Less great if you’re an independent cab driver.
If your operations are on the smaller side and you don’t need all the bells and whistles, then look for a provider that prioritizes affordability and ease of use.
Features & Functionality
Speaking of bells and whistles, understanding what you want out of your system is crucial to your choice. You may have found a system that offers all kinds of advanced reporting and cool AI features. But if all you need to know is the location of a few trucks, then 99% of what you’re paying a premium for is useless.
Some providers will also package your systems with extras like dash cams and compliance tracking. If you already have these in place, it’s worth comparing the costs to see if having all of these under one provider will save you money.
Pricing & Contract Terms
You may have found the best system on the market, and it looks perfect for you. But if it’s out of your budget, don’t go for it. Especially if you are going to drain resources from elsewhere.
Also, take into consideration the length of the contract. Longer contracts allow you to have one less thing on your plate when running your business. However, if another provider comes along with a better deal for you, or after a few months, the system doesn’t meet your needs, then you’ll probably have to fork out an early termination fee.
Shorter contracts do allow you to shop around for better deals more frequently. Just remember, though, that some providers will charge installation fees, often per vehicle. So if you look after a large fleet, then these costs will quickly add up, and you will have to spend time learning and implementing a new system.
Ease of Use & Integration
You may have the most advanced system out there, but if you can’t use it properly because it’s too difficult to get to grips with, you’re not going to get the most out of it. A basic system that is simple to use will provide you with far more value than a more advanced one that is a nightmare to navigate.
If you already have ERP, CRM, payroll, fuel cards, and compliance software in place, make sure it can integrate with these for a smoother experience.
Customer Support & Reliability
Everything may be sunshine and rainbows when things are going well, but what happens when things go wrong? Do you have direct access to a customer support team, and how responsive are they? If you operate around the clock, then a 24/7 service is a non-negotiable.
The best way to gauge this is by checking sites like Trustpilot and the provider’s Google Reviews. One or two poor reviews are to be expected, so take these with a pinch of salt. But if you notice any patterns (both good and bad), then these are probably a true indicator of the level of service.
How Can I Get Fleet Tracking For My Business?
Even armed with the knowledge of everything we’ve discussed today, trying to find the best deal for you can be a tedious and sometimes overwhelming decision. But it doesn’t have to be. At Commercial Experts, we’ve made it our mission to help American businesses like yours find the best vehicle tracking system for their business, and we’d love for you to be our next success story!
All you have to do is tap the button on this page and answer a few questions about your business. Then, based on your responses, you will receive a range of fleet tracking quotes tailored to your specific needs.
All quotes are 100% free and non-committal, so what are you waiting for? Tap the button below and get comparing now!
FAQs
What is a vehicle tracking system?
A vehicle tracking system uses GPS technology to monitor a vehicle’s location, route, speed, idle time, and driver behavior. It combines hardware installed in the vehicle with software that displays this data, helping businesses improve safety, reduce costs, and streamline daily operations.
What types of vehicle tracking systems are available?
There are two types: active and passive. Active systems provide real-time updates for immediate decision-making. Passive systems store data for later review. Active systems suit dynamic environments, while passive systems are more budget-friendly and ideal for simpler operational needs.
What are the main benefits of GPS vehicle tracking?
Key benefits include real-time fleet visibility, faster emergency response, improved route efficiency, fuel savings, driver safety monitoring, accurate timekeeping, and compliance tracking. These systems also enhance customer service through more accurate ETAs and boost operational control with automated maintenance reminders and reporting.
Who is the best provider for my business?
It depends on your fleet size, budget, and features needed. Verizon suits large, multi-region fleets. Samsara offers AI-driven insights. GPS Insight is highly customizable. Azuga works well for safety-focused SMEs. Motive excels in compliance-heavy industries. Compare each to find the best fit.
How can I get vehicle tracking for my business?
Click the button below to get started. Just answer a few quick questions, and you’ll receive custom quotes tailored to your business needs. It’s fast, free, and non-binding—giving you all the info to compare the best GPS tracking systems today.
