Best GPS Tracking Systems for Trucks in 2025

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Choosing the best GPS tracking system for trucks isn’t just about following dots on a map. The right platform needs to handle truck-specific realities such as height, weight, fuel use, HOS rules, and complex routes, while helping you cut costs and keep drivers safe.

Based on our testing and research of leading US truck GPS tracking systems, Verizon Connect is the best overall option for large truck and semi-truck fleets, thanks to its powerful route optimization, real-time maintenance alerts, detailed safety tools, and flexible reporting that can be tailored to specific truck models and driving patterns.

In this guide, we’ll compare the top truck GPS tracking systems on price, route optimization, compliance, driver management, and vehicle maintenance, so you can see how Verizon Connect stacks up against other leading providers and choose the best fit for your truck or semi-truck fleet.

Best GPS Tracking Systems For Trucks: Key Takeaways

  • The best truck GPS systems combine live tracking, truck-specific routing, safety tools, and compliance support. In our latest testing and research, Verizon Connect remains the strongest all-round choice for larger, complex fleets that need deep data and advanced controls.
  • Refresh rate matters for time-critical operations: systems that update every 15 to 30 seconds give dispatchers much better visibility for tight ETAs, incident response, and high-value loads than platforms that only refresh every few minutes.
  • Truck-aware routing is non-negotiable for safety and compliance, letting you avoid low bridges, weight-restricted roads, hazmat-restricted routes, and known bottlenecks that increase fuel burn and driver stress.
  • Fuel, maintenance, and driver-behaviour analytics are where the savings actually appear, helping you cut idling, spot unsafe driving early, and schedule preventative maintenance before breakdowns take trucks off the road.
  • Compliance features (ELD, HOS, DVIR, IFTA) are increasingly bundled into the same platform, reducing paperwork and audit risk. But they’re often sold as add-ons, so you’ll need to check what’s really included in each quote.
  • Hardware choices affect reliability and install effort: plug-and-play OBD devices are fast and cheap to deploy, while hard-wired units are better for older heavy-duty trucks, covert installs, and long-term durability.
  • Standalone truck satnavs still make sense for owner-operators and very small fleets, but once you’re running multiple vehicles, a full GPS fleet system usually pays for itself through better routing, safety, and downtime reduction.
What are the Best GPS Tracking Systems for Trucks in 2025?

  1. Verizon Connect – Best for closely monitoring your trucks
  2. Samsara – Best for route optimization
  3. Teletrac Navman – Best for customized reporting
  4. Azuga – Best for trucker safety
  5. Spireon – Best for fast updates

These are the providers we recommend based on our research. Read our methodology to understand how we achieved this ranking, or click on any of the providers above to go to our quote-finding tool. Since most GPS tracking system providers use custom pricing, this is a necessary step to get accurate prices for each recommended option.

The Best GPS for Trucks: Tracking Systems Compared

Here’s an overview of the strengths and weaknesses of each GPS tracking system before we dive into what each can offer your trucking fleet operations.

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Starting price

Custom (approximately $30/month)

Starting price

Custom (starting from $20/vehicle/month)

Starting price

Quote-based (software license from $27/vehicle/month)

Starting price

Custom (approximately $25/month)

Starting price

$25/month

Starting price

Custom

Key features
  • Safety: ✅AI dash cams
  • Jobs: ⚠️Basic ETAs
  • Maintenance: ✅Reminders
  • Theft prevention: ✅Gateway geofence
  • Contract: ⚠️3-year typical
Key features
  • Safety: ✅Leaderboard, alerts
  • Jobs: ✅Dispatch
  • Maintenance: ✅Predictive
  • Theft prevention: ⚠️Limited (time-based)
  • Contract: ❌3-year minimum
Key features
Key features
  • Safety: ✅Scorecards, fatigue tools
  • Jobs: ✅DVIR + alerts
  • Maintenance:
  • Theft prevention: ⚠️No 24/7 alerts
  • Contract: ✅1-year available
Key features
  • Safety: ✅Scoring, alerts
  • Jobs: ✅Multi-stop routing
  • Maintenance: ✅Fuel + health
  • Theft prevention: ❌None
  • Contract: ⚠️Varies by plan
Key features
  • Safety: ✅Alerts, diagnostics
  • Jobs:
  • Maintenance: ✅Full suite
  • Theft prevention: ⚠️No remote kill
  • Contract: ❌3-year minimum
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1. Verizon Connect – Best for closely monitoring your trucks

Of all the trucker-friendly GPS tracking systems we’ve tested, Verizon Connect scored the highest from our research methodology with a total of 4.7/5 and is one of the best fleet management companies, full stop.

Offering a 30-second refresh rate for all its tracking information (not the fastest on the market, but the industry standard), a handy live tracking dashboard, and an easy-to-follow, color-coded map, it is straightforward to use, too. There are even customizable daily summary reports that highlight the data that you need to see, from transit times and stop durations to speeds and idling events. Here’s a quick summary of what it offers your trucking fleet business.

Verizon Connect's new logo
Verizon Connect
4.7 Expert research rating
Pricing Custom
Quick overview

Verizon has an impressive 4.7/5 score in our research, and it very much deserves the best overall title. It helps you schedule maintenance checks regularly to ensure all your vehicles are in tip-top shape before setting off. Moreover, it sends automatic alerts if it detects any damage. So, if a faulty system lights up, you can receive vehicle diagnostic reports in a snap!

If you ever miss a check-up or scheduled maintenance, it will automatically reflect on your fleet maintenance records. Speaking of, your fleet maintenance records are all intact with Verizon’s system. In case of a faulty system, it will automatically sync this information to your records and suggest the nearest maintenance centers. You can also create service plan templates to calculate maintenance costs and how often you should do them.

Verizon will also tie you into a three-year contract. As such, we don’t recommend Verizon for small fleets that don’t cost a lot to manage or those who’d prefer short-term contracts.

Strengths

Top-tier tracking features to monitor trucks and truck assets

Solid navigation and route planning based on truck size/weight, with traffic and road closure alerts

Generates driver scores to encourage truckers to drive safely, including HOS monitoring and ELD reports

Offers a huge amount of other data and features most providers can't match

Weaknesses

High potential price and complexity means it’s not so good for small fleets

Lengthy initial contract period of three years

Only more expensive subscriptions support fleet maintenance tools

Pricing
Price per vehicle, per month
Quote-based from $20 to over $250/vehicle/month (estimate) based on fleet size, contract length, and features

Verizon Connect’s GPS tracking for trucks: At a glance

Are Verizon Connect devices hardwired or OBD?Both
How does Verizon Connect’s setup work?Verizon promotes self-installation – in other words, it’ll provide you with the information for you to learn how to install a tracker yourself
How much does Verizon Connect installation cost?Nothing – unless you opt for hardwired devices, in which case you might choose to pay for a third-party engineer to install them
How long is Verizon Connect’s warranty?We’ve been unable to surface this information
What customer support options are available with Verizon Connect?An online knowledge center, email support, and 24/7 phone support
Does Verizon Connect come with a smartphone app?Yes; multiple 
Does Verizon Connect offer satnav integration?Only with Garmin satnavs
Does Verizon Connect provide live weather updates?Yes – namely regarding visibility, wind velocity, surface air pressure, rainfall forecasts, and hurricane/cyclone forecasts 
Does Verizon Connect offer IFTA compliance?Yes
Does Verizon Connect offer ELD compliance?Yes
As well as the GPS tracking, does Verizon Connect come with other fleet management features?Yes – in fact, Verizon Connect is one of the most sophisticated fleet management systems out there. Check out our Verizon Connect review to learn more

Verizon Connect’s key trucking features: In detail

Truck-specific navigation and route creation

Using the Verizon Connect Navigation app, truck drivers can get in-cab navigation via a smartphone to their destinations. These routes are not only optimized for efficiency – including real-time traffic updates and road closure alerts to avoid delays across the country – but are also optimized for specific truck considerations such as vehicle height, weight, length, and hazardous material restrictions.

There are even live weather overlays, so truckers are able to see storms, high winds, and road closures directly on the in-cab map. This makes it much easier to reroute around bad conditions, cut down on surprise delays, and keep HOS plans realistic on multi-day journeys.

You can also program the Verizon Connect route creation system to avoid toll roads, low bridges, and other restricted areas. We think it works well in this regard, helping truckers avoid any dangerous routes. It is pretty intuitive and user-friendly software too, with a sleek aesthetic that betters the vast majority of tracking solutions.

screenshot of verizon connect navigation app showing a map with a route on it under certain constraints
You can determine your optimal route based on your vehicle's weight, size and length, amongst other constraints, using the Verizon Connect Navigation app, available on both iOS and Android devices. Source: Verizon

For those who use a Garmin satnav – one of the most widely used GPS devices for truck drivers – you can also integrate Verizon Connect with Garmin hardware for truck-specific navigation. That betters Samsara, which can’t integrate with any satnavs.

Truck driver-friendly features

Truck drivers work long hours, so any hardware/software solution must work for them too. Besides its highly functional mobile app, there are privacy controls for off-duty hours to address driver concerns about tracking during personal time.

Verizon Connect can also be integrated with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warnings and collision avoidance, which should help drivers stay safe, alongside the ability to set real-time alerts for harsh braking, acceleration, speeding, and cornering to promote safe driving habits. And to contact fleet managers, there’s two-way messaging for drivers to quickly chat without the need for a call.

Maintenance, fuel, and cost features for heavy-duty trucks

Verizon Connect also offers predictive maintenance scheduling based on heavy-duty vehicle requirements.

vehicle maintenance reminder page on Verizon Connect Reveal web-app showing different vehicles and metrics that the alert should notify for
By setting maintenance alerts, you can get ahead of any vehicle problems before they arise. Source: Expert Market

There’s integration with Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs) for streamlined pre-trip and post-trip inspections too, as well as automatic diagnostic alerts for immediate attention to vehicle issues specific to trucks.

Beyond that, you can dive into its analytics tools to have a look at fuel consumption patterns, which is especially important to heavy-duty trucks that consume a lot of fuel. You can also monitor driver idle time to identify and reduce unnecessary fuel usage, as well as other driver coaching tools to promote efficient driving practices.

Verizon Connect Reveal dashboards
Diving into the details of dashboards, like wasted fuel trends, allow you to discover precisely where any improvements in efficiency can be made. Source: Expert Market

24/7 customer support

Trucking fleet or otherwise, when things go wrong and you need some support, it’s good to have an array of options. Thankfully, Verizon Connect offers dedicated customer support available 24/7 via its phone lines. You’ll also have access to comprehensive online resources for drivers and fleet managers alike, including tutorials, webinars and other documentation.

Where could Verizon Connect improve for truckers?

One area Verizon Connect doesn’t provide hardware is for cargo temperature monitoring which refrigerated reefer trucks are required to use. You can get third-party temperature probes, with Verizon supplying a guide on how to install them, but both Samsara and Spireon offer native temperature monitoring solutions for perishable goods.

Still, Verizon Connect does offer axle weight monitoring to prevent overloading and ensure compliance with weight regulations, as well as other cargo features such as door sensors and geofencing to reduce the risk of theft and unauthorized access.

What trucking businesses best suit Verizon Connect?

Verizon Connect is designed to handle large fleets with hundreds or thousands of trucks. Its centralized dashboard and customizable reports mean it is the best choice for managing extensive fleet operations, trucks, or otherwise.

For trucks specifically, it provides asset-tracking capabilities for trailers, containers, and other equipment that should appeal to any haulage company.

verizon logo
Verizon Connect is our top pick for truck fleet management

Verizon Connect has a live tracking dashboard, service plan template creation, and predictive maintenance. Learn more about its tracking systems by visiting Verizon’s website.

2. Samsara – Best for route optimization

Just behind Verizon Connect with a score of 4.6/5 overall, Samsara offers superb automated route planning and optimization, making it a better choice for effective navigation than the likes of Spireon, which doesn’t offer any such features. Like Verizon, Samsara’s AI route optimization takes traffic and weather into account when planning journeys for your drivers.

Handily, Samsara can show your truckers’ progress, color-coding their routes so you can easily see when they’re on time, running late, or skipping a stop altogether. You’ll also be able to choose from a variety of real-time alerts, though you’ll need to code these yourself (Samsara provides code snippets, but manual configuration is still required). Here’s a quick summary of what it can provide your trucking fleet.

Samsara flexi
Samsara
Pricing Custom (from around $27/vehicle/month)
Strengths

AI route building (up to 20 stops with AI and 100+ stops overall) with live traffic and site times

Fast updates (30 to 60 seconds), live weather and hazard layers, and strong safety coaching

24/7 support and broad IoT camera/sensor ecosystem for mixed needs

Weaknesses

Minimum 3-year contract

High cost can be a barrier for smaller fleets looking to pilot a small number of EVs

What Does Samsara Cost?
ProductPrice/device (due upfront) Samsara has custom packages; these prices are exemplary based on previous research
Vehicle gateway (ELD) $1,584 for 3 year software license ($44/month)
Cargo monitor $162 for 3 year software license ($4.50/month)
Environmental monitor $324 for 3-year software license ($9/month)
Panic button $59

Samsara’s GPS tracking for trucks: At a glance

Are Samsara’s devices hardwired or OBD?OBD
How does Samsara’s setup work?Samsara promotes self-installation
How much does a Samsara installation cost?Nothing – OBD devices are easy to install and you can do it yourself
How long is Samsara’s device warranty?The majority of Samsara’s tracking devices come with a five-year warranty. Accessory devices, such as card readers, come with a one-year warranty
What customer support options are available with Samsara?An online knowledge center, email support, a chatbot, and 24/7 phone support
Does Samsara come with a smartphone app?Yes
Does Samsara offer satnav integration?No
Does Samsara provide live weather updates?Yes, via a dashboard view
Does Samsara offer IFTA compliance?Yes
Does Samsara offer ELD compliance?Yes
As well as the GPS tracking, does Samsara come with other fleet management features?Yes – Samsara’s fleet management system is one of the very best on the market. Learn more about it in our Samsara review

Samsara’s key trucking features: In detail

Advanced AI-powered route optimization for trucks

Samsara stands out with its sophisticated AI-powered route optimization designed specifically for trucks and semi-trucks.

Like Verizon Connect, the system dynamically calculates the most efficient routes by considering truck-specific constraints such as vehicle dimensions and weight, axle restrictions, and hazardous material classifications. But Samsara goes a step further by optimizing for other factors than distance and time, such as safety and fuel efficiency (considering routes that minimize idling, avoid congested areas, and/or reduce unnecessary mileage).

Samsara’s route planning algorithm also learns from more historical and present-day data to improve routing decisions proactively. It incorporates live traffic updates and road closures, alongside present weather conditions and even local events that could affect driving conditions. It can even make changes based on driver behaviors and preferences by opting for routes that cater to specific drivers such as avoiding certain types of roads or areas.

Almost needless to say, if conditions on the road change, Samsara automatically updates the route to avoid further delays or new hazards, too.

screenshot of Samsara GPS tracking map
Samsara’s route map lets you see the progress made by your driver, including notes on missed stops. Source: Samsara

Extensive fuel management analytics

Samsara also provides in-depth fuel management tools that help trucking fleets similarly reduce costs to Verizon Connect. You’ll be able to track fuel consumption across each of your trucks to identify inefficiencies in particular vehicles, as well as pinpoint driving habits that aren’t doing you any favors, such as excessive idling. There are further driver behavior insights to drill into as well, like harsh acceleration or speeding that could impact your truck’s fuel economy.

Samsara is also pushing further into AI-assisted maintenance through its ecosystem of integrations. For example, it now connects with AI-driven tire platforms like Revvo, so fleets can combine Samsara’s telematics with real-time tire health data and automated alerts when tires are under-inflated or at risk of failure. That’s a big win for truckers trying to avoid blowouts and costly roadside calls.

Where Samsara could improve for truckers

One area where Verizon has stolen a march on Samsara has to do with hardwired devices. Samsara’s reliance on plug-and-play devices may not suit all heavy-duty trucks lacking OBD-II ports, as trucks can often be older machinery than other vehicle types.

Similarly, Samsara’s GPS devices solely use cellular connectivity. We think introducing satellite communication options would allow for uninterrupted service for truckers operating in remote areas with limited cellular coverage. By comparison, Verizon Connect does have support for satellite connectivity should cellular be down.

And we reckon integrating advanced cargo security features like door sensors could benefit fleets transporting high-value goods, too.


Ideal trucking businesses for Samsara

We believe Samsara is an attractive choice for many trucking companies. There’s only a hair’s breadth between its offering and Verizon Connect.

For fleets that are looking to optimize routes with AI technology, aiming to reduce fuel costs through detailed analytics, or seeking to enhance safety with real-time monitoring and add-ons like AI dashcams, Samsara is a great pick. Should one of the above misgivings, such as a lack of advanced security features, be a dealbreaker, however, Verizon Connect is worth looking into.

Get tailored, no-obligation quotes from the right fleet tracking systems for your trucks

3. Teletrac Navman – Best for customized reporting

For businesses that need robust and customizable reporting and analytics tools, Teletrac Navman is a superb choice. We found fleet managers could generate tailored insights with ease, covering fuel consumption, driver performance, maintenance schedules, and more.

Add in features such as real-time traffic and weather updates for truck-altered navigation, geofencing, comprehensive ELD compliance tools, and trailer and asset tracking, and we are left believing Teletrac Navman is a versatile, scalable platform that truckers and trucking fleets can get a lot out of.

Just be aware that you’ll need to pay for one of the more expensive plans to get the most out of TN360 – its cheapest plan, for instance, doesn’t include customizable alerts or driver behavior and safety analytics. Here’s what it offers in short before we dive into its reporting features.

teletrac logo
Teletrac Navman "TN360"
4.6
Pricing From $25 per month
Quick overview

Teletrac offers a couple of different systems and earns a 4.9/5 for tracking, the TN360 provides a more user-friendly reporting experience than Director. Criteria can be set for activities fleet managers want to be alerted for.

For price it scores a 3.4/5 over its competitors' 2.5/5. While none of them have concrete pricing, Teletrac's range does seem to be lower than its competitors'. Its feature score of 3.8/5 is also fairly solid, due to its solid app, hardwired option, and fuel purchase data log.

Strengths

Keeps private journeys private by recording private mileage while hiding location information

Can send stolen vehicle alerts to help you react to truck theft quickly

Can provide instant video replays of incidents (when integrated with dash cams)

Weaknesses

Functionality is seriously limited by how much you pay

The cheaper plans have a slow data refresh time of five minutes

Doesn’t monitor cargo temperature

Pricing
Starting price
Per vehicle, per month From $25

Teletrac Navman’s GPS tracking for trucks: At a glance

Are Teletrac Navman’s devices hardwired or OBD?Teletrac Navman offers both
How does Teletrac Navman’s setup work?Provides video tutorials for self-installation, however, Teletrac can send an engineer if your fleet has more than 10 vehicles
How much does a Teletrac Navman installation cost?Nothing!
How long is Teletrac Navman’s warranty?We were unable to find this information
What customer support options are available with Teletrac Navman?A contact form, free training webinars, and 24/7 phone support 
Does Teletrac Navman come with a smartphone app?Yes
Does Teletrac Navman offer satnav integration?No
Does Teletrac Navman provide live weather updates?Yes
Does Teletrac Navman offer IFTA compliance?Yes
Does Teletrac Navman offer ELD compliance?Yes
As well as the GPS tracking, does Teletrac Navman come with other fleet management features?Yes – read our Teletrac Navman review for all the details

Teletrac Navman’s key trucking features: In detail

Customizable Reporting with Build Your Own Report (BYOR)

Teletrac Navman sets itself apart with its Build Your Own Report feature. It provides excellent customization options for reports and dashboards when diving into your trucking data.

We found you can select specific metrics or datasets relevant to your operations, such as fuel usage, driver performance, or maintenance schedules, and create a dashboard that works for you. Below is an example of the driver dashboard Teletrac offers by default.

teletrac navman driver scorecard for truckers
Teletrac Navman's driver scorecards create easily interpreted visuals for an oversight on your trucker's driving and the necessary detail to understand exactly where inefficiencies lie. Source: Teletrac Navman

There’s also the option to apply various filters. You can drill down into the data further and even automate report generation sent to stakeholders at regular intervals. For this reason, the TN360 offers far more detailed data insights than Azuga, a solution that doesn’t allow you to customize reports that extensively.

After it first released its AI telematics system in 2020, Teletrac has since added natural language processing to its software. That means you can search your data dashboard by typing in questions such as “Which drivers had the most harsh braking events this month?” and the system will accurately interpret your request.

Plus, Teletrac’s ‘Adaptive Intelligence’ module integrates your system with other apps. This unites data from multiple sources so you can see all of your business data in one place. It can integrate with ProMiles software, for instance, helping you comply with IFTA regulations by showing total interstate and intrastate mileage for your trucks, and offers weather telematics so you can avoid adverse weather conditions. This is a workaround for the TN360’s lack of built-in weather updates.

AI-smart dashcams

Teletrac Navman has also introduced an AI-enabled Smart Dashcam that plugs straight into TN360. The camera automatically detects behaviours like tailgating, phone use, and harsh manoeuvres, then pushes short video clips into driver scorecards so managers can coach with real footage rather than just abstract risk scores, especially useful for trucking fleets dealing with frequent claims or near-misses.

Where Teletrac Navman could improve for truckers

We think it could be beneficial for Teletrac Navman to follow the lead of other providers by implementing in-cab feedback features. This could help fleet managers coach drivers and correct unsafe behaviors immediately.

It would also be useful if the number of third-party integrations was more extensive. Increasing compatibility with more TMS and dispatch systems, in particular, could offer greater operational flexibility.

Ideal trucking businesses for Teletrac Navman

Trucking businesses that need highly tailored reporting and analytics, in a user-friendly form, will find the interface and tools available via Teletrac to be both intuitive and insightful.

Overall, its features should be extensive enough for large fleets, and have the ability to scale with your operations as they grow, too. And it comes at a more manageable cost than the reported prices of Verizon Connect and Samsara.

4. Azuga – Best for trucker safety

Azuga is an excellent option for those looking to simplify their GPS truck tracking, with a solid range of reports for fleet managers requiring easy-to-access data about their fleet.

Its predictive maintenance alerts and fuel consumption monitoring help fleets reduce operational costs and improve efficiency. Plus, we had to applaud its user-friendly mobile app which consolidates essential functions such as HOS logging, DVIRs, messaging, and navigation, making it a good tool for the daily operations of truck drivers themselves.

It’s got some uniquely customizable data refresh times, too (most providers, like Samsara and Verizon, have automatic rates between 30 seconds and one minute) letting you refresh data every 30 seconds to every 59 minutes, or somewhere in between, too.

But Azuga’s strong emphasis on driver safety and engagement is its standout feature, including the innovative Driver Safety Rewards Program, which we’ll discuss shortly. Here’s a quick look at Azuga before we dive into this feature at length.

azuga logo small
Azuga
4.4
Pricing From $25 to $35 per month
Quick overview

Azuga scores a 4.4/5, with its only downfall being that the alerts aren't as robust as other platforms. One of its most unique features is the ability to customize refresh time anywhere between 30 seconds and 59 minutes, letting your drivers go with as much or as little oversight as they need.

Looking at price, Azuga scores 2.5/5, which isn't amazing, especially when its other product features aren't as robust as Verizon or Samsara's. It's missing a hardwired option, satnav integration, and the panic button is within the mobile app.

Strengths

FuelSaver add-on directs drivers to the closest gas station with the cheapest fuel

Fuel card integrations are available with WEX, PAPCO, and EFS

Trip logs provide detailed records of all trips taken over the last 90 days

Weaknesses

Subscriptions are a little expensive, starting at $27.99 per month

Maintenance scheduling, usually included in fleet management systems as standard, costs extra

Doesn’t monitor cargo temperature

Pricing
Price range
BasicFleet $25 per vehicle, per month
SafeFleet $30 per vehicle, per month
CompleteFleet $35 per vehicle, per month

Azuga’s GPS tracking for trucks: At a glance

Are Azuga’s devices hardwired or OBD?OBD
How does Azuga’s setup work?OBD units can simply be plugged in – no professional installation services are required. However, Azuga’s team can set up your software and help you migrate information from your previous system
How much does an Azuga installation cost?Nothing!
How long is Azuga’s device warranty?We’ve been unable to surface this information
What customer support options are available with Azuga?An online knowledge center, email support, 24/7 phone support, and a chatbot
Does Azuga come with a smartphone app?Yes
Does Azuga offer satnav integration?No
Does Azuga provide live weather updates?Yes
Does Azuga offer IFTA compliance?Yes
Does Azuga offer ELD compliance?Yes (at an additional cost)
As well as the GPS tracking, does Azuga come with other fleet management features?Yes – check out our Azuga review for all the details

Azuga’s key trucking features: In detail

Innovative Driver Safety Features and Rewards Program

We’re most impressed by Azuga’s range of features designed to protect the safety of your truckers. Its Drivesafe add-on enables you to block smartphone distractions – such as texting and app use – when a truck is in motion, while the AzugaCoach add-on provides personalized video coaching to drivers who need it.

When your truckers drive well, Azuga’s one-click rewards function can help you to incentivize that behavior quickly and easily. Each driver gets a scorecard that assesses driver performance based on factors like speeding, harsh braking, and rapid acceleration.

This gamification sees drivers earn points that can be exchanged for gift cards or other incentives, which can only benefit overall safety.

Azuga rewards scheme on web-app via computer and on smartphone showing different stores you can redeem vouches and the leader board of different drivers based on safety score
Drives are ranked by their safety score in Azuga, with the winners receiving vouchers based on their performance - Source: Expert Market

And should any truckers drive dangerously, it’ll be captured by integrated SafetyCams (if you’ve paid for them, as they aren’t included by default). These dashcams go beyond simple recording by using dual-facing, AI-powered video to spot risky habits such as distracted driving or tailgating, then tying those events back to the driver’s safety score. Fleet managers can review short, annotated clips rather than scrub through hours of footage, making it much easier to turn real incidents into targeted coaching for truck drivers.

Where Azuga could improve for truckers

We reckon Azuga could offer hardwired tracking devices as well as OBD ones, as this would increase compatibility with all truck types, while Satnav integration wouldn’t go amiss either.

Azuga also lacks crash reporting, which could be a huge deal if a truck goes off the road in an accident. For comparison, the TN360 has crash report alerts, and Samsara even records crash data based on G-Force values.

Ideal trucking businesses for Azuga

Should you want to prioritize driver safety and engagement, Azuga’s driver-focused features are an appealing boon.

Azuga has a transparent pricing structure which also makes it clear what you’ll be paying and for what, unlike other providers including Samsara and Verizon. This should be a benefit to small to medium-sized trucking fleets that want to budget correctly and efficiently without any nasty surprises.

▶ Read more: US Vehicle Tracking Laws

5. Spireon – Best for fast updates

Spireon’s best feature comes in the form of its refresh rate. While most vehicle tracking software will take 30-60 seconds to refresh your vehicles’ locations on your map, Spireon has options for 60, 30, and 15-second refresh rates. That is the fastest rate we found, and perfect for businesses who need a lot of oversight on their fleets.

But there’s more to it than that. Read on for a deeper dive into Spireon’s features after a summary of where its strengths and weaknesses lie.

Spireon Logo
Spireon
4.2
Pricing Bespoke
Quick overview

Spireon is a solid product across the board, with its only shortcomings being its price (2.5/5) and help and support options (2.4/5). Otherwise, Spireon offers a great array of tracking features, scoring a 4.8/5.

Strengths

Rapid refresh time of 15 seconds for real-time visibility

24/7 visibility and actionable insights

Sensor and after hour alerts

Weaknesses

Prices aren't transparent but based on our research it's fairly pricey due to expensive add-ons

While it offers email support, there is not 24/7 phone support or knowledge center

Pricing
Price range
Bespoke

Spireon’s key trucking features: At a glance

Are Spireon’s devices hardwired or OBD?Both – Spireon’s modular FL360 hardware can be installed as a covert hardwired unit or as a plug-and-play device, with additional battery-powered trackers for trailers and other assets.
How does Spireon’s setup work?Typically installed by Spireon-approved, factory-trained technicians, with remote onboarding and software training available for fleet managers.
How much does a Spireon installation cost?Bespoke. Installation is often bundled into your overall FleetLocate quote, with total cost varying by hardware mix, vehicle count, and contract terms.
How long is Spireon’s warranty?Standard one-year hardware warranty, with coverage and terms defined in your service agreement.
What customer support options are available with Spireon?Phone support during US business hours, email support, and a self-service online resource center including videos, webinars, and documentation.
Does it come with a smartphone app?Yes – the FleetLocate Periscope mobile app (iOS and Android) lets fleet managers view real-time locations, alerts, and landmarks from a phone or tablet.
Does Spireon offer satnav integration?No dedicated satnav hardware integration is advertised; drivers typically pair FleetLocate with their preferred navigation app on their smartphone or in-cab GPS.
Does Spireon provide live weather updates?There is no dedicated weather overlay, but managers can still see real-time traffic conditions and map data to help avoid delays.
Does Spireon offer IFTA compliance?Not marketed as a full IFTA solution, but FleetLocate’s mileage, trip, and fuel-exception reports can be exported to support tax reporting workflows.
Does Spireon offer ELD compliance?Yes – ELD and Hours-of-Service compliance are available via the FleetLocate ELD add-on module, including DVIR tools.
As well as the GPS tracking, does Spireon come with other fleet management features?Yes – including maintenance scheduling and service plans, driver scorecards and behavior alerts, trailer and asset tracking, geofencing/landmarks, and fuel-card and exception reporting. Read our full Spireon review.

Spireon’s key trucking features: In detail

AI predictive maintenance

Spireon’s vehicle maintenance software is called FleetLocate, which uses AI technology to predict when vehicle maintenance will be needed. This helps fleet managers schedule maintenance efficiently, and reduce breakdowns. By contrast, Azuga’s fleet maintenance capability is limited to scheduling alerts to remind you when each vehicle should go in for repairs. This is less accurate than Spireon’s AI-based system.

Advanced trailer and cargo monitoring

We were also impressed by Spireon’s independent trailer tracking which allows for covert installation by their skilled technicians. This way, thieves may not realize there’s a tracker on your haulage goods at all.

A standout part of Spireon’s trailer package is its IntelliScan cargo sensing technology, which combines optical imaging, laser time-of-flight, and onboard processing to show how full each trailer actually is. Instead of relying on rough estimates, fleets get precise load-level readings and even visual confirmation of cargo, helping cut down on wasted space, detention time, and potential theft or misloads on long-haul routes.

Spireon also has the tech and features to detect door openings and monitor cargo status to further prevent theft or tampering. And there are also reefer monitoring capabilities for businesses tracking temperature levels on refrigerated trucks.

Where Spireon could improve for truckers

Areas where Spireon might enhance its services include providing more seamless ELD integration to simplify compliance management. At present, you need to go into its FleetLocate ELD add-on module, which works perfectly well but could be better integrated with the primary system.

Like the other options on this page, fleet managers can set up automatic alerts for dangerous driving incidents, however, unlike some of these options including Verizon and Samsara, these alerts won’t be sent to the driver making it harder to curtail risky driving in the moment.

Ideal trucking businesses for Spireon

Spireon is a clear choice for trucking companies that want the fastest possible tracking information they can. Its advanced security measures should mean it’s a decent choice for truckers transporting high-value cargo. Meanwhile, Spireon’s satellite connectivity support also makes it an appealing option for truckers who frequently drive in remote areas.


Standalone GPS Devices For Trucker Navigation

While this page is about helping fleet businesses track trucks with GPS-enhanced software systems, the extensive capabilities of these systems, as described above, may be too advanced for smaller fleets or self-employed truckers without a fixed team.

In other words, our research has shown that many truckers just want a standalone, reliable GPS device to navigate across the US without the bells and whistles of providers like Verizon Connect.

Best GPS trackers for trucker navigation without a subscription

Garmin Dēzl OTR620 (Price: $350): Best value trucking GPS tracker

Of all the trucking GPS trackers, Garmin dēzl OTR620 is perhaps the most cost-effective GPS device specifically designed for professional truck drivers seeking reliable navigation. Its standout feature is customized truck routing, which allows you to input your truck’s dimensions — height, weight, length, width, and hazardous materials — much like the five software-hardware solutions we discussed above.

It also displays truck-specific points of interest along your route, including truck stops, weigh stations, rest areas, and parking spots. This can help with efficient trip planning and timely breaks. You’ll get driver alerts for upcoming road conditions such as steep grades, sharp curves, and speed limit changes, enhancing safety and compliance on the road.

garmin dēzl OTR620 on white background showing map view, setting and the device from behind
Garmin's dēzl series is widely regarded as the best option for truckers looking for a standalone GPS solution for individual navigation needs, with the dēzl OTR620 being the cheapest sold on the line at present - Source: Garmin

Featuring a six-inch touchscreen, the dēzl has a clear and user-friendly interface too, and having a dedicated device rather than your smartphone for your GPS navigation is appealing in terms of day-to-day ease. It supports voice-activated navigation, enabling hands-free operation so you can keep your focus on driving, too, and also has built-in Wi-Fi for easy map and software updates without needing a computer.

Pairing it with the Garmin Drive app on your smartphone grants access to live traffic and weather updates, though you could also get that by pairing it with Verizon Connect or other solutions discussed above.

Overall, any of the models in the dēzl series are worth your attention, but at $350 this is the cheapest in the series if you are looking for a reliable GPS tracker for truck-specific navigation.


Buying Guide: GPS Tracking for Trucks Explained

When you’re choosing a GPS tracking system for trucks, you’re really choosing how your whole operation will run day to day. The “best” option fits your fleet size, route patterns, compliance needs, and budget without drowning you in complexity.

In this buying guide, we’ll break down the main types of truck trackers (from simple location-only units to full telematics platforms with ELD, dashcams, and fuel analytics), then walk through the key decisions you’ll need to make so you can match the right level of tech to the reality of your fleet.

What are the different types of GPS tracking systems for trucks?

There are two main types of GPS tracking for trucks: passive and active.

Passive tracking

Passive trackers store the GPS data which is then downloaded once the vehicle returns to the office or base. With passive systems, there is no transmitter to send information back to the system while the vehicle is on the road.

The pros of a passive tracking system include providing exact records of vehicle location, and monthly reports. It also tends to be cheaper as you don’t need a subscription fee. However, a passive tracker cannot provide instant feedback or stats, you can’t monitor a driver or vehicle in real-time and you can’t track a stolen or missing truck.

Active tracking

An active GPS tracker can record, store, and transmit information about a vehicle in real time. Transmission time will depend on each system but some of the better systems will transmit every 60 seconds.

The pros of an active tracker are that you receive real-time data so fleet managers can plan better routes at short notice and monitor risky driver behavior. Plus, deliveries and stolen or missing vehicles can be tracked.

However, active trackers are more expensive than passive trackers as they typically include a monthly fee on top of transmission and real-time data fees.

What are the key features to look for in GPS tracking systems for trucks?

When you’re choosing a truck GPS, focus on the jobs it actually helps you do business, rather than simply a long feature checklist.

  • Real-time tracking & refresh rate – Live location updates every 30–60 seconds (or faster) so you can see where trucks are, tighten ETAs, and react quickly to delays or theft.
  • Truck-specific routing – Navigation that factors in height, weight, axle limits, hazmat restrictions, and low bridges, not just “fastest route”.
  • Safety & driver coaching – Harsh braking/speeding alerts, driver scorecards, and optional AI dashcams to cut accident risk and insurance exposure.
  • Maintenance & diagnostics – Engine fault-code alerts, odometer/engine-hour tracking, and service reminders to prevent breakdowns and keep vehicles roadworthy.
  • Fuel & idle analytics – Reports on MPG, idling, and route efficiency to help you tackle one of your biggest operating costs: fuel.
  • Compliance tools (ELD, HOS, DVIR, IFTA) – Built-in workflows so drivers can log hours, inspections, and mileage without juggling separate apps.
  • Reporting & integrations – Customisable dashboards and exports, plus integrations with your TMS, maintenance, payroll, or accounting tools to reduce manual admin.

Use cases by trucking sector

Different fleets will care about different parts of that feature set. Here’s where things may be most relevant for you:

  • Long-haul/OTR fleets – Prioritise coverage, ELD/HOS tools, driver safety features, and fuel/idle analytics to control costs over long distances.
  • LTL, regional, and final-mile delivery – Look for strong multi-stop routing, geofencing for customer sites, and accurate ETAs to manage dense routes and tight time windows.
  • Construction & heavy equipment – Mixed-asset tracking (trucks + equipment), geofencing for job sites, theft alerts, and engine-hour-based maintenance are key.
  • Reefer and temperature-sensitive loads – Temperature monitoring, door sensors, and trip-level reports to prove you stayed within required ranges.
  • Small fleets & owner-operators – Simple self-install hardware, clear pricing, basic real-time tracking, and an easy mobile app that bundles navigation, HOS, and messaging.
Spireon driver score card with rows of data beside each driver's name
Spireon's FleetLocate assigns a score to each trucker based on their driving style.

How do GPS tracking systems help with compliance and legal risk for truck fleets?

US trucking fleets need to think about three big regulatory buckets: ELD/HOS, safety scores, and tax/audit exposure. Handily, these are areas which GPS tracking software typically helps with, since it is often packaged within broader fleet management tools, as our mini-reviews above highlight.

1. ELD & Hours of Service (HOS): avoid fines and out-of-service orders

The FMCSA’s ELD rule requires most interstate CMV drivers who keep RODS (records of duty status) to use approved electronic logging devices, not paper logs. These devices must automatically record things like date, time, location, engine hours, and duty status.

Why it matters:

  • HOS violations can trigger fines, roadside out-of-service orders, and higher CSA scores, which in turn mean more inspections and lost drive time.
  • Poor documentation gives you almost no defence if there’s a crash investigation or lawsuit.

Helpful GPS/telematics features related to this:

  • Integrated ELD + GPS (same device feeding both location and HOS).
  • Real-time HOS alerts for approaching drive-time or rest-break limits.
  • Driver apps for quick DVIRs (driver vehicle inspection reports) and status changes.

2. CSA scores & safety audits: data that follows you

FMCSA’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program uses the Safety Measurement System (SMS) to track your crash and violation history across seven BASIC categories (unsafe driving, HOS, vehicle maintenance, etc.). Poor scores can trigger interventions, audits, and loss of business from safety-sensitive shippers.

Helpful GPS/telematics features:

  • Driver behaviour monitoring (speeding, harsh braking, seatbelt, mobile phone use).
  • AI dashcams that record context for incidents and can exonerate drivers.
  • Automated exception reports to focus coaching on the highest-risk drivers.

3. Fuel tax, mileage & documentation (IFTA/IRP)

Under the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA), fleets must track and report fuel use and distance by jurisdiction; records usually need to be retained for at least four years. Sloppy records mean back taxes, penalties, and time-consuming audits.

Helpful GPS/telematics features:

  • Automated mileage by state/province for IFTA/IRP reporting.
  • Integrations with fuel card data to reconcile purchases with GPS miles.
  • Easy exportable logs (CSV/PDF) that match what auditors expect to see.

4. Data security and privacy

Telematics systems collect sensitive location, driver, and sometimes video data. There’s no single telecom law for GPS, but fleets are still exposed under general data-protection, breach notification, and employment/privacy laws, plus contractual obligations to shippers. Regulators and courts increasingly expect reasonable safeguards (encryption, access controls, retention policies).

Helpful GPS/telematics features:

  • Role-based access controls (drivers vs dispatch vs management).
  • Strong encryption in transit and at rest.
  • Clear audit trails showing who accessed what data and when.

How can GPS tracking systems for trucks improve fleet management?

GPS tracking systems provide features such as the ability to schedule and dispatch drivers, schedule maintenance, and manage fuel usage.

Fleet managers can collect data and analyze it to reduce vehicle idle time and increase the business’s revenue. Tracking systems provide several features to reduce fuel costs like more efficient route planning, improved driver behavior, and less idling.

GPS tracking systems help improve fleet security by setting up a geofence for drivers. For example, a predetermined area for drivers to rest, to ensure you comply with truck driver fatigue laws. The real-time data contributes to better customer satisfaction as you can provide customers with up-to-date reliable information on their deliveries.

To find the right vehicle tracking system for your fleet, use our free quote comparison tool. We’ll match you with trusted providers who will contact you with obligation-free quotes.


How Did We Find the Best Vehicle Tracking Software for Trucks?

We investigated 29 market-leading fleet management and vehicle tracking systems to evaluate them in terms of functionality, usability, accuracy and aesthetics, so we can make the most useful recommendations to US businesses.

Our rigorous research process means these products have been scored and rated in six main categories of investigation and six subcategories – in fact, we covered 51 areas of investigation in total. We then gave each category score a “relevance weighting” to ensure the product's final score perfectly reflects the needs and requirements of Expert Market readers.

Our main testing categories for vehicle tracking systems are:

Price: The cost associated with using the vehicle tracking software, including upfront costs, subscription fees, hardware costs (if applicable) and any additional charges for advanced features or add-ons.

Tracking: The core functionality of the vehicle tracking software, which involves monitoring and tracking the location and movements of vehicles in real-time, such as GPS tracking, route optimization and geofencing.

Driver management: The features and tools provided by the vehicle tracking software to manage and monitor driver activities. This can include driver behavior monitoring, driver performance reports and driver identification.

Vehicle management: The functionalities that allow for the efficient management and maintenance of vehicles, such as vehicle health monitoring and maintenance scheduling.

Product features: The additional functionalities and capabilities offered by the vehicle tracking software beyond basic tracking and management, such as real-time alerts and notifications, or driver routing and dispatching.

Support: The resources, assistance and guidance provided by the vehicle tracking software company to users, including phone support, email or chat support, and online forums.

Verdict

Verizon is the best GPS tracking software for trucks, according to our research, with a score of 4.7/5. That high-water mark is down to its class-leading tracking abilities and wide range of data. This all makes Verizon a good fit for large trucking fleets.

However, while it keeps its exact prices under wraps, we believe it might be a little pricey for smaller fleets. We believe Teletrac Navman could be a better fit in terms of pricing, although its packages are also bespoke, an industry standard, so you’ll need to contact the provider directly for a quote.

If you’d like an easy way to compare quotes that have been tailored to you, simply tell us about your fleet by filling in our quote form, and you’ll receive free, tailored quotes directly from trusted truck fleet management GPS solution providers.

FAQs

Are there different types of GPS tracking systems available for trucks and semi-trucks?
There are two different types available: active and passive. Active tracking sends real-time data to the tracking system and passive tracking receives the data once the vehicle is back from the road. Which one is best suited to your trucking fleet, featuring trucks or semi-trucks, is down to whether you require real-time tracking or not.
How long does it take to install a GPS tracking system on my trucks and semi-trucks?
Typically it only takes around 30-45 minutes to hardwire and install a GPS tracking system, though an OBD-II device can be plugged in and used within a few minutes. It depends on the trucks in your fleet.
Do I have to inform my drivers we're using GPS trackers?
Yes, by law, you must inform fleet drivers that their vehicle is being tracked.
Written by:
Matt Reed is a Senior Communications and Logistics Expert at Expert Market. Adept at evaluating products, he focuses mainly on assessing fleet management and business communication software. Matt began his career in technology publishing with Expert Reviews, where he spent several years putting the latest audio-related products and releases through their paces, revealing his findings in transparent, in-depth articles and guides. Holding a Master’s degree in Journalism from City, University of London, Matt is no stranger to diving into challenging topics and summarising them into practical, helpful information.
Reviewed by:
James draws on more than four years experience as a researcher to offer specialized advice on a wide range of categories from CRM to fleet management. He believes all businesses can grow if they use the right tools and services.

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FAQs

What is Fleet Management?
Fleet management systems help businesses that run fleets to boost productivity, reduce costs, and keep tabs on the locations of their vehicles. These systems consist of two main parts: GPS tracking devices – which are installed in each vehicle – and a software portal, where you can see all the data collected by your tracking devices.As well as tracking your vehicles’ locations, these systems can also help you cut down on fuel costs, plan and optimize your routes, dispatch the right drivers for the right jobs, identify dangerous driving behavior, schedule vehicle maintenance, stay compliant with legal regulation, and more.
Who are the top providers?
There’s a vast range of Fleet Management solutions out there so it’s hard to narrow down exactly which is right for your business. We highly recommend Samsara as one of the top options available. We’re also big fans of Verizon Connect, GPS Insight, GPS TrackIt, Linxup and Teletrac Navman. Finding out which option is right for your business is the most important step, which is why we match you with the best options for you.
How do we work?
Our free quote-matching service is quick and easy to use:
  1. We’ll ask you a few questions about your business, so we can understand what you need.
  2. We’ll use your answers to match you with up to five trusted suppliers. This is why we ask for your contact details. Your details are safe with us and we’ll only ever match you with suppliers that we know can cater to your needs.
  3. Your matched suppliers will get in touch with you, so you can ask questions and receive quotes tailored directly for your needs. You’ll then be armed with all of the information you need to confidently compare and choose from.