FAQs

Tracking a Truck With No GPS: Is It Possible? Your Questions Answered

Learn more about tracking vehicles with no GPS tracker. Find out what other forms of vehicle and asset tracking we offer, and how the devices work.

1. Does the Cartrack Tag replace my standard GPS tracker?

No, the Cartrack Tag doesn’t replace your standard GPS tracker. The Cartrack Tag works on its own network, which doesn’t have GPS technology. It therefore doesn’t replace your GPS tracking device because you’ll need it for your main tracking needs. It’s mostly used as a backup unit (for when there’s no signal) or as an asset tracker.

2. Do South African insurance companies offer discounts for having a non-GPS tracking system?

Yes, some insurers do offer lower premiums for non-GPS trackers that are used as backup. This is because they know that backup units increase the chances of recovery, as criminals sometimes use signal jamming devices to conceal the location of stolen vehicles. Non-GPS-powered trackers like the Cartrack TAG ensure your car's location is visible in instances where there’s no GPS signal.

3. How accurate is non-GPS tracking compared to satellite tracking?

The accuracy of a non-GPS tracking device when compared to satellite tracking depends on the kind of device it is and its intended purpose. For example, a Bluetooth tracker is highly accurate when the item being tracked is close to it. If you use it to track equipment in your warehouse, then it’ll be perfect.

4. Can I use ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) to find my own truck?

The ANPR system can only be accessed by authorised organisations like security companies and the police. If your truck is stolen, make sure you report the matter as quickly as possible, and they’ll use the ANPR system and other methods to find it.

5. Can a truck be tracked if the main vehicle battery is disconnected?

Yes, your truck can still be tracked if your main vehicle battery is disconnected. High-quality vehicle tracking units (like the ones we offer) have a battery life that can last for hours when the vehicle has no power. This ensures that your truck’s location remains visible when the battery is disconnected.

6. Is it possible to track a trailer separately from the truck head without GPS?

Yes, tracking a trailer separately from the truck head without GPS is possible. You can track your trailers using various asset trackers that don’t rely on GPS technology. But, we recommend it as a backup security measure for when your truck goes to areas with little or no signal coverage.

7. Does non-GPS tracking work when the truck crosses South African borders?

Yes, non-GPS tracking works when your trucks cross South African borders depending on the type of non-powered tracker it is, its range, and the connectivity laws of the other country. For cross-border tracking, we recommend you use GPS trackers because they’ll give you a better range and higher accuracy.

8. Can the Cartrack Tag be used as a standalone tracker for trailers?

Yes, the Cartrack Tag can be used as a standalone tracker for trailers. It’s a wireless tracking device, making it easy to attach to trailers. It also doesn’t rely on GPS technology, making it ideal for tracking trailers that are in low network areas.

9. What is the best tracking device for a truck?

The best tracking device for your truck is one that’ll help meet all your trucking needs. It should help you save on costs, improve productivity, and boost profits. Cartrack helps you achieve all of that by offering features like:

  • Real-time vehicle location tracking
  • Fuel monitoring tools
  • Digital maintenance management

These solutions make us a top choice for your truck management needs.

10. Is tracking a truck without GPS a violation of POPIA?

Tracking a truck without GPS is not a violation of POPIA. A violation of POPIA involves tracking someone's vehicle without their knowledge, accessing their private data, and using it for personal gain. As a fleet manager, you must inform your drivers of all tracking methods you use to monitor your fleet so they can be aware and not feel violated.

11. Can Cartrack Tag be used to monitor driver behaviour?

No, the Cartrack Tag can’t be used to monitor driver behaviour. It’s mainly for tracking assets and can also be used as a backup vehicle tracker in case of signal jamming. It’s the perfect solution for tracking vehicles, equipment, and machinery that are always in low network areas.

12. Can I recover a stolen truck without notifying a tracking company?

Recovering your stolen vehicle without notifying a tracking company isn’t impossible, but it’s very rare. Tracking companies have the right tools and technology to speed up the process of recovery and ensure safe practices while doing so, because chasing after criminals is a dangerous activity. So if your vehicle is stolen, rather inform your vehicle tracking company instead of trying to do it yourself.

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