The Number of Vehicles Being Tracked Is Set To Double By 2012

(PRWEB) November 12, 2009 -- According to VehicleTrackingSystems.org.uk, vehicle tracking is more popular than ever due to the significant cost cutting and operational benefits it can bring to a business. In the US there are over 3.6 million vehicles being tracked today and by 2012 this will almost double to 6.5 million, according to research by CJ Driscoll. This trend is expected to be reflected in Europe and most vehicle tracking companies are launching products in developing countries expecting them to follow this pattern.

Sarah Ross at VehicleTrackingSystems.org.uk said, "The internet seems to be the preferred method for customers researching tracking systems with Google alone reporting in excess of 15,000 vehicle tracking searches in the UK every month. She goes onto explain "We have seen a 41% rise since June in enquiries relating to vehicle tracking systems, in almost all cases the questions involve explanations of features or payment methods. The significant increase in enquiries shows that despite the economic climate businesses see vehicle tracking as a necessity and worth the investment. The SME market is huge and tracking companies are realising that although the large corporate fleets are important there is massive potential in the SME sector and this is where many plan to grow their fleet sizes."

However there are concerns within the SME sector with many vehicle tracking companies going out of business and leaving small to medium businesses with lease commitments, but no tracking systems. The problem is that the larger, more established company's prices are simply too high for many SME's to afford. Frank Ross at www.vehicletrackingsystems.org.uk continues, "Although the subject of vehicle tracking can be confusing to new comers, by taking a structured approach to buying a system you can't go wrong. Many SME's don't apply the same kind of due diligence processes larger companies would and by looking at the key factors SME's can be confident of choosing the right system and the right supplier."

8 Things To look For When Buying A Vehicle Tracking System

1)    When shopping around for a vehicle tracking system make sure you have identified what features you require. Confirm the systems you are considering include the features that you require now and are likely to require in the future. Do not pay for features that are of no use to your business.

2)    When short listing companies do some research online on the reputation of the vehicle tracking products and companies you are considering. It is important to ask for customer references, most companies will be able to provide written testimonials and contacts to speak to. It is inevitable that you will need technical assistance at some point throughout the contract, so good customer service is very important.

3)    Before you purchase a vehicle tracking system or enter into a lengthy contract, check that the company is financially sound using a credit checking system. If you would prefer to avoid entering into a contract with a tracking supplier you can always use a different payment method, such as Outright Purchase or Pay As you Go. Remember when you enter in to a lease contract you are committing to pay regardless of whether your tracking system works.

4)    Make sure you are clear about all of the upfront, monthly and additional charges involved. These costs can include monthly software and airtime charges as well as the cost of service visits and moving the system when you replace a vehicle. Double check with the supplier every charge you will be required to pay throughout the contract.

5)    Many companies offer a free trial of their system in one or more of your vehicles. These trials usually last for 30 days and give you an ideal opportunity to see how the system will work for you before you buy. If you can show you are serious about buying a system they should in return be serious about winning your business.

6)    Make sure that the company you choose to purchase your GPS vehicle tracking system from provides a Service Level Agreement (or similar) for the entire length of the contract. This is important to protect you legally should they fail to provide the service promised.

7)    Make sure you have a full onsite parts and labour warranty on your tracking system for the entire length of the contract. Also make sure that telephone support and onsite training are included. Vehicle tracking systems are often not serviceable and are usually replaced if a fault occurs.

8)    Don't be afraid to ask the vehicle tracking companies as many questions as you like. It is important to be 100% certain what each company is offering before entering in to an agreement.

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