By RAM Tracking on 9 Apr 2025
Choosing a van tracker isn't just about ticking a box for security, it's about finding a tailored solution that fits the needs of your business. Whether you’re a self-employed tradesperson or managing a growing fleet, a GPS tracker can help you prevent theft, reduce running costs, and stay compliant with insurance and regulatory requirements.
But with a range of options on the market, knowing how to choose a van tracker that’s right for you can be tricky. In this guide, we’ll help you narrow down your choices by looking at key decision-making factors, the differences between tracker types, how to assess providers, and some common traps to avoid.
When choosing a van tracker, the right solution will depend on how you operate, what level of visibility you need, and what outcomes you’re looking to achieve.
We have a range of GPS tracking devices designed for real-time visibility, driver safety, and vehicle protection. Our tracking system boasts features like:
Live vehicle tracking – know where your vans are 24/7
Theft alerts and tamper warnings – get notified the moment there’s suspicious activity
Driver behaviour reports – monitor harsh braking, idling, or speeding
Geofencing – receive alerts if a van leaves a set zone (e.g. job sites, depots)
Maintenance reminders – keep vehicles running smoothly based on usage, not guesswork
For example, if your business involves high-value equipment or regular client visits, geofencing and live alerts from our Core package can offer real-time control and reassurance.
Van track costs vary, but cheap up-front prices can be misleading if the system lacks key functionality or long-term support. With RAM Tracking, our packages are designed to scale, offering basic options for solo operators and premium solutions for fleets that need more insight.
Want to compare tracker pricing? See our Van Tracker Costs guide for a full breakdown.
Many of our van trackers are Thatcham-approved – an essential box to tick if you’re aiming to reduce insurance premiums or meet certain commercial vehicle standards. Choosing a compliant, professional solution also reduces risk and improves credibility when managing contracts.
Want to learn more about what van trackers can do for your business? Read our full guide on van trackers for small fleets.
The type of tracker you choose will affect everything from installation time to theft resistance. Here’s how they compare:
Hardwired Trackers (RAM’s standard)
Best for: Long-term use, high-security, fleet oversight
Pros: Discreet install under the dashboard, hard to tamper with, always powered
Use case: Our hardwired GPS fleet trackers are ideal for tradespeople leaving vans on job sites overnight or managing multiple vehicles with sensitive routes
Plug-In (OBD) Trackers
Best for: Short-term use, temporary vans
Pros: Quick to install, no tools needed
Cons: Easily spotted and removed – better suited to low-risk usage
Battery-Powered Trackers
Best for: Assets, trailers, or off-road vehicles
Pros: No wiring required, completely portable
Cons: Needs regular charging, fewer features
If your vans carry valuable tools or make regular customer visits, hardwired trackers offer the strongest protection and reliability.
Another important consideration when choosing a van tracker is whether you’d benefit from dash cam integration. We offer a range of dash cam solutions that work seamlessly with our GPS tracking systems for fleet, allowing you to see exactly what your drivers see.
Thinkware F70 Dash Cam (SD Package)
Full HD 1080p recording for reliable evidence
Parking surveillance mode – useful for vans left on-site overnight
Multiple recording types: continuous, manual, incident, and fail-safe
Ideal for small businesses wanting basic footage for incident protection or parking surveillance.
Receive instant driving event notifications
Dual-camera system – front and rear views covered
Continues recording after engine shut-off, so you can request footage even when parked
This setup is perfect for businesses needing real-time oversight and fast access to incident footage, such as delivery companies, trades, or passenger transport services.
Once you know what type of tracker and features you need, it’s time to assess providers. Here’s how RAM Tracking stands out:
Experience and trust
With over 250,000 trackers installed, RAM Tracking is a proven name in the UK market. Our systems are trusted by thousands of SMEs, sole traders, and growing fleets alike. Just check out our 1500+ 4.8 star reviews on TrustPilot!
Professional installation
All vehicle trackers are installed by experienced engineers who ensure discreet placement and full configuration. This reduces tampering risks and keeps your system performing long-term.
UK-based customer support
If you need help, you’ll be speaking to a real team that understands UK roads, insurance standards, and local business needs, not an offshore call centre.
Easy-to-use platform
From live maps to driver analytics, our cloud-based dashboard is built to be intuitive, whether you’re using it daily or dipping in weekly for reports.
Avoid these common pitfalls when choosing your solution:
Buying on price alone
A cheap tracker that misses theft alerts or has no support could cost you more in the long run.
DIY installation
A tracker that’s easy to remove is easy to bypass. Professional installation matters.
Ignoring support and platform usability
If the software is clunky or support is unresponsive, you’ll stop using it.
Not planning for growth
Choose a van tracking system that can scale with you as you add more vehicles.
The question isn’t just how to choose a van tracker, but how to choose one that fits your business goals, setup, and growth plans. Whether you need peace of mind after hours, better route efficiency, or proof in the event of an incident, the right combination of features, installation, and support is key.
At RAM Tracking, we offer tailored GPS and dash cam packages to meet these needs, from basic security to complete fleet oversight. With professional fitting, responsive UK support, and flexible pricing, it’s easy to find a solution that works for your team.
Ready to explore your options? Get in touch for a custom quote for RAM Tracking today.
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