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Vehicle Tracking & Telematics

How Much Does GPS Tracking Cost?

Richard Howard
|
April 17, 2025

Rising fuel prices and inflation are squeezing business profits everywhere. Smart business owners are looking for ways to cut costs without sacrificing service quality.

Vehicle tracking offers a proven solution that pays for itself. But how much does it really cost, and what return can you expect on your investment?

Understanding GPS Tracking Investment vs. Expense

Many business owners think of GPS tracking as just another monthly expense. This is the wrong way to look at it.

GPS tracking is an investment that generates measurable returns. The key is understanding how the costs work and what savings you can expect.

The monthly fee covers much more than just knowing where your vehicles are. You're investing in fuel savings, theft protection, improved productivity, and reduced insurance costs.

What Affects GPS Tracking Pricing?

Several factors determine your monthly GPS vehicle tracking costs:

  • Number of Vehicles - Obviously, more vehicles mean higher costs. But most providers offer volume discounts as your fleet grows.
  • Device Type - Different fleet tracking devices have different capabilities and costs. Basic location tracking costs less than advanced systems with driver behavior monitoring.
  • Features Included - Speed monitoring, driver reports, maintenance alerts, and mobile apps all add value but may affect pricing.
  • Installation Requirements - Professional installation ensures reliability but may involve setup costs. Some devices can be self-installed to reduce initial expenses.
  • Contract Terms - Longer contracts often come with better monthly rates but less flexibility.

RAM Tracking Device Options and Costs

RAM offers a few tracker types, so you can match the device to how each vehicle is actually used rather than paying for features you don't need.

A battery powered tracker is quick to self-install and works well for smaller or more flexible fleets, since there's no need for professional fitting. A hardwired tracker is installed by one of our engineers for a permanent, tamper resistant setup, better suited to larger fleets or vehicles you plan to track long term.

For businesses that want more than location data, our vehicle health tracker builds on standard tracking with extra insights like fault codes, battery health, and fuel levels, giving a fuller picture of vehicle condition alongside real time location.

​Vehicle Tracking Costs

Pricing for RAM Tracking begins at just $19.99 per month per vehicle. The exact cost depends on which device and features you choose.

This low monthly cost includes:

  • The tracking device itself
  • Professional installation (where required)
  • Access to our fleet tracking software
  • Customer support
  • Regular software updates

There are no hidden fees or surprise charges. You know exactly what you'll pay each month.

Features That Add Value to Your Investment

  • Speed Analysis and Driver Reports - See exactly how your employees drive. Identify dangerous habits and provide targeted training. This feature alone can prevent costly accidents and insurance claims.
  • Fuel Efficiency Reports - Monitor engine idling, harsh braking, and inefficient driving. These "green reports" help you coach drivers to waste less fuel and reduce vehicle wear.
  • Detailed Journey Analysis - Get complete reports for any time period showing distance traveled, time taken, and average speeds. Perfect for billing customers or analysing route efficiency.
  • Mobile Driver App - Keep drivers connected with dispatch through our live vehicle tracking app. Improve communication and reduce phone calls that distract drivers.

Calculating Your Return on Investment

Most RAM customers see the system pay for itself within the first few months. Here's how to think about your own potential savings:

  • Fuel savings – businesses using RAM tracking can save up to $531 per vehicle per month, often covering a large portion, if not all, of the monthly tracking cost
  • Time savings – consider how much management time is currently spent chasing drivers for location updates, and what that time is worth
  • Insurance savings – speak to your insurance provider directly about whether GPS tracking qualifies for a premium discount, as this varies by insurer
  • Theft recovery – weigh the cost of replacing a stolen vehicle against the small monthly tracking fee; one recovery can pay for years of tracking
  • Productivity gains – better visibility and dispatch efficiency often means completing more jobs per day without adding vehicles or staff

For a clearer picture based on your own fleet, RAM's ROI calculator estimates potential savings using your specific fleet size and current costs, rather than relying on general averages.

Smart Investment for Growing Businesses

Your competitors are already using fleet vehicle tracking to cut costs and improve service. The monthly fees are small compared to what you'll save on fuel and insurance.

With rising fuel costs and increasing competition, you need every advantage possible. GPS tracking gives you the visibility and control needed to run an efficient, profitable operation. The question isn't whether you can afford GPS vehicle tracking. The question is whether you can afford to operate without it.

Contact RAM today for a custom quote based on your specific fleet and budget. See exactly how much you could save while improving your business operations.

FAQs

Does it cost more depending on the type of tracker I choose?

Yes. Pricing varies by tracker type. A battery powered tracker is generally the more affordable option and suits businesses wanting quick, flexible installation, while a hardwired tracker costs more but offers a more permanent, tamper resistant setup. Which one works out better value depends on how long term your tracking needs are.

Do I have to sign a long contract to get GPS tracking with RAM?

No. RAM offers a range of contract lengths, so you can choose a term that suits your business, and there's also a pay as you go option if you'd rather avoid a fixed contract altogether. This makes it easier to trial tracking on a smaller scale before committing longer term.

How can I find out exactly how much I'd save with RAM?

The most accurate way is to use RAM's ROI calculator, which estimates your potential savings based on your specific fleet size and current costs, rather than relying on general industry averages.

Is pay as you go a good option for smaller fleets?

It can be, particularly if you're not ready to commit to a fixed term or your fleet size fluctuates. It gives you the flexibility to scale tracking up or down without being tied into a longer contract, though fixed term contracts may work out cheaper per vehicle over time if your fleet size is stable.

Does switching from a battery tracker to a hardwired one later cost extra?

This depends on your existing contract terms, so it's worth speaking to RAM directly about upgrade options if your needs change, for example moving from a flexible battery powered setup to a permanent hardwired installation as your fleet grows.

Can I mix tracker types across my fleet, or do I need to choose one for all vehicles?

You can mix tracker types across your fleet. Many businesses use battery trackers for some vehicles and hardwired trackers for others, depending on how each vehicle is used and whether a permanent installation makes sense for it.

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About the author

Richard Howard brings nearly a decade of front-line sales experience at RAM, having supported businesses across diverse sectors with their fleet management and asset tracking needs.

Throughout his nine years with RAM, Richard has developed a comprehensive understanding of the operational challenges that trades and field service businesses face daily. His client-first approach focuses on matching the right technology solutions to real-world problems, helping fleet operators gain better visibility, control costs, and protect valuable assets.

When he's not helping businesses optimize their fleets, Richard is a passionate traveller who loves exploring new destinations, experiencing live music, and discovering great food wherever he goes.

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