Portable GPS Tracker Device For Every Asset

Portable tracking has grown to become a true and practical necessity, whether it’s about protecting your personal vehicle or managing your business’s expanding fleet. In fact, a PSIRA study, on page 6, states that tracking systems are extremely sought after (especially due to vehicle-related crimes in the country), and the recovery rate of stolen vehicles reported by tracking companies in South Africa is estimated to be between 70% and 95%, depending on the provider and circumstances.

Most traditional portable GPS trackers are a simple and flexible alternative to standard tracking systems, which are highly efficient but typically permanently attached in place. Portable trackers are lightweight, sleek, and wireless, making them the perfect solution for rental setups, personal safety measures, or other short-term tracking needs. But while these portable trackers rely on GPS or cellular connection, Cartrack’s device, the CT Tag, is purpose-built solely for jamming-resistant asset tracking – not needing any cellular or internet connections to function.

This tracker type introduces a new degree of safety and control, and through this guide, we’ll tackle the advantageous outcomes of opting for a portable tracker and how Cartrack’s advanced technology and anti-jamming protection make it easy for you to stay connected to your vehicle and keep it safe.

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What is a portable GPS tracker device?

A portable GPS tracker is a standalone, small, battery-operated device that transmits a vehicle's real-time and precise location. It’s a wireless unit that, unlike standard trackers, which are integrated directly into a vehicle’s electrical system, requires no installation and can fit in every vehicle. Portable trackers are typically:

• SIM-equipped devices, which use LTE (Long Term Evolution) or GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) networks for connection purposes. This is not the case for Cartrack’s portable device, though. Cartrack’s portable tracker, known as a CT Tag, doesn’t use a SIM card, so therefore doesn’t rely on GSM or GPS connection. This also means that it’s unaffected by jamming, as it doesn’t transmit GPS or cellular signals.
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• Sleek and compact, so that it’s easy to store discreetly or to attach magnetically to a part of the car.
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• Battery-driven for independent operation.

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Portable devices are designed for universal use, making them a convenient solution for every type of vehicle, including personal cars, delivery vehicles, motorbikes, rental vehicles, and even specialised assets. One single unit can move between any asset, as is required, and common uses include short-term tracking, fleet management, personal safety, and asset recovery. 

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What to expect from a quality portable GPS tracker

A reliable and high-quality portable GPS tracker should offer flexibility, consistent performance, and rapid location pinpointing. The features below are the ones to look out for, and these can be found in Cartrack’s solution:

• Real-time location tracking: Being able to track your asset is at the core of everything from route surveillance to SVR (stolen vehicle recovery). This should be achievable when the vehicle is in motion or is stationary. In the case of Cartrack’s CT Tag, tracking is via CPRF triangulation and crowd searching, not GPS pings.
  
  
• Anti-tampering and detection: This is a crucial feature that offers extra security; should the portable tracking device be touched, taken, or tampered with, the Cartrack control room will immediately get a notification.

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How do portable trackers differ from traditional trackers?

It’s fair to assume that portable trackers won’t work as well as hardwired ones, but in reality, that’s not the case. Portable trackers deliver the same high level of performance, just with the additional flexibility aspect. Look at the table below to understand the key differences:

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Is a portable GPS tracker the right fit for your needs?

A portable GPS tracker could potentially be the perfect option for you, as it has the ability to serve so many kinds of people and businesses. Because of their sleek design and wireless build, they offer adaptability across numerous industries and personal circumstances, depending on what you’re looking for. Let’s take a closer look at who truly benefits:

• Car dealerships and logistics providers: Much like the previous point, this is a solid solution for businesses that deal with logistics or have constantly moving assets between users, like car dealerships. Consider this if you’re monitoring driver behaviour or even keeping an eye on assets that are frequently changing hands.
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• Construction and heavy equipment (yellow metal): Non-road assets, such as heavy machinery used in construction businesses, also require tracking and monitoring. With Cartrack, you can still get insight into movements, but also get an extra layer of security through anti-jamming protection – an enhanced feature of the portable tracker. 
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• Key cases and benefits:
  
  • Peace of mind and theft recovery through immediate alerts
  • No permanent installation required, which means no worries about delays, downtime, or any fiddling with the assets
  • Flexibility for seasonal or short-term needs
  • Shared vehicles and non-owned assets can still be carefully tracked and kept safe under your care – without ownership limitations

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How to choose the best portable GPS tracker for every vehicle

Although there are numerous portable tracker options available out there, there are a few core features that should matter to you when choosing the best one. No matter the asset type, it’s likely you’ll want the most reliable device. Here are the features to look for – and how Cartrack meets these needs:

• Device size and discreetness: A portable GPS tracker should be sleek and compact enough that it’s easily hidden but still durable. Cartrack’s device is discreet and sturdy, unmoving even when covering rough terrain.
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• Coverage and reliability: A portable tracker shouldn’t foster downtime through lack of visibility, and unlike traditional portable trackers that rely on GPS or cellular networks, Cartrack's device works independently of that connection. This means that there’s consistent performance – even where GPS fails or jamming occurs.
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• Data access and location: High-quality units are sometimes accompanied by a platform that gives you clear insights and an overview history. Due to its complex device type, Cartrack doesn’t typically allow this kind of access to clients and is only accessible to authorised personnel in the Cartrack control room; however, businesses are allowed personal visibility upon request. This action is largely to prevent criminal interference.
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• Battery life and power modes: Naturally, a solid battery life is one of the most key features here, especially considering that portable units depend on their own battery source to stay powered. With its durable battery and smart modes, Cartrack's device lasts between 3 and 5 years.
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• Immediate alerts: Real-time alerts are the key to extra safety and security, allowing you to be instantly aware of unauthorised actions. Any tampering with a Cartrack device is immediately recognised. 
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• Local and ongoing support: It’s one thing to just have a quality tracking device; it’s another thing to have a quality tracking device that doubles as an anti-jamming gadget, is provided by a reputable company, and offers round-the-clock support. Cartrack gives you expert assistance with everything from maintenance and battery replacements to quick response times from the control room and vehicle recovery teams. 
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• Critical questions to ask before you settle on a portable unit:
  
  • Can I use this in multiple vehicles?
  • Will I get an alert if the tracking unit is removed?
  • How often is location data updated?
  • Will I receive dependable support when I need it?
  • Does the tracker work in low-signal areas?

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What makes Cartrack’s portable GPS tracker the smartest choice?

Reliability and quality should be the leading focuses of a top provider. Cartrack is at the forefront of this, having established itself as a leader in fleet management and vehicle tracking and being trusted by hundreds of thousands of businesses and individuals. Here’s what makes Cartrack the standout choice:

• Value-asset tracking: Due to its discreet and mobile nature, Catrack’s portable tracker can be used as a means to track non-road assets, ensuring their protection when they’re in storage, on-site, or in transit.
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• Exceptional battery efficiency: Cartrack has employed smart battery-saving modes for their portable tracking units, which ensure extended battery life between maintenance.
   
• Enhanced safety through CPRF Network: The wired device has full telematics and anti-jamming capabilities. 
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• The Tag preserves energy by not having to report GPS or cellular activity. As a wireless unit, it can be discreetly hidden and works perfectly as a transmitting device in the CPRF Network;
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• Local support across South Africa: Get access to assistance from local teams nearby who understand your geographic landscape and surroundings. Otherwise, rest assured that there are teams available 24/7 from crisis control rooms in case of emergencies.
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• A solid solution for both individual and commercial needs: Cartrack’s CT Tags are just as effective for individuals as they are for businesses; it’s an easy and adaptable choice that is able to scale or move across all types of assets – without sacrificing functionality.

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The bottom line

Overall, portable trackers might just be the future of asset tracking. You get the perks of full visibility, tracking control, and adaptability without the stress and hassle of having to commit to a permanently installed device. 

Cartrack’s portable solution is backed by customer satisfaction and reliability. Get everything you’re looking for in a tracker – from security and smart alerts to personal and professional use.

Need flexible vehicle tracking that moves with you, or want to see how this device works in action? Start your journey with Cartrack today, and get a personalised demo. 

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FAQs

Q: What is the best tracking device in South Africa?

A: The best tracking device ultimately depends on some contributing factors; these include your business needs, budget, and the company’s offerings. Cartrack ranks among the top providers, offering high-quality products, all-around support, and user-friendly platforms. ‍

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Q: Does a portable GPS tracker work without internet?

A: Technically, yes – standard portable trackers use satellites to pinpoint location, which can require mobile data (communicated from a SIM card), but not necessarily Wi-Fi. Cartrack’s portable tracker doesn’t rely on GPS or cellular data at all, which extends its already lengthy battery life and doesn’t fail in environments with low signal or connectivity.‍

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Q: What happens if someone removes the portable Cartrack tracker?

A: The tampering will immediately trigger detection, and the Cartack control room will receive an alert or notification. The device is designed to send location signals via the CPRF network for as long as possible so location information can be used and the asset can be retrieved as swiftly as possible.‍

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Q: Can a cell phone detect a portable GPS tracker?

A: No, not necessarily. As previously mentioned, standard trackers typically depend on mobile networks and satellite signals to transmit data. Because portable trackers don’t use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, they don’t show up on the phone’s device list and typically require special equipment for detection. Cartrack’s Tag is invisible to consumer devices because it doesn’t broadcast detectable Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/GSM signals.

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