Fleetr Help CentreHow GPS Vehicle Tracking Works
Get to know the tracker, the connection, and the readings behind your map.
Last updated: .
A GPS tracker uses satellite signals to calculate its position, then sends readings over a mobile data connection. Fleetr associates those readings with the vehicle to show its reported location, status, journeys, and events. The tracker, SIM connection, and application each have a different job.
| Component | What it does | What to check when data is missing |
|---|---|---|
| GPS receiver | Calculates position from satellite signals | Antenna placement, sky visibility, and GPS fix |
| Tracker power supply | Keeps the device operating | Installation, power connection, and device battery where fitted |
| SIM and mobile network | Carries readings to the tracking platform | Active SIM, data allowance, coverage, and APN |
| Device configuration | Specifies the destination and reporting behaviour | Correct identifier, server address, port, and reporting interval |
| Fleetr account | Organises vehicles, access, reports, and alerts | Correct account, attached device, permissions, and subscription |
GPS Reception and Mobile Connectivity Are Different
A device can have mobile connectivity without a fresh GPS fix, for example inside a covered parking structure. It can also calculate a position while unable to upload it because there is no mobile coverage. Always read the location timestamp alongside the status. The latest position available to Fleetr may be older than the moment you open the map.
Some trackers can upload stored readings after reconnecting. That capability depends on the model, memory, power, and configuration; it is not a guarantee that every outage can be reconstructed.
Live Tracking, Journey History, and Fleet Reports
Use live tracking to inspect the latest reported state of a vehicle. Use journey history to review a recorded trip and its route. Use fleet reports to compare completed activity across a date range and export the results. These views answer different questions, so their totals need not match while a trip is still running.
For example, a delivery vehicle can appear as moving on the live map before its current journey appears in a completed-trip report. After reviewing the trip, use the report's date and timezone filters to compare it with your delivery records.
Choosing a Tracker for Your Vehicle
Check the exact model on the supported GPS devices page before arranging installation. A familiar brand name does not establish that every model supports the same signals or commands.
Discuss the following with your installer: vehicle supply voltage, installation location, ignition detection, backup power, reporting interval, and any fuel sensor or immobilisation requirements. For an existing tracker, confirm that its server settings can be changed and that its identifier is available. Follow Device Setup once compatibility is established.