By RAM Tracking on 25 Mar 2025
By Richard Howard, Sales Manager, RAM Tracking
If you're managing a fleet of vans, you might wonder about van tracker cost and whether it's worth the expense. GPS van tracking systems are increasingly popular for improving efficiency and security, but how much does it actually cost to install van trackers in your vehicles? This article breaks down what to expect, from upfront device purchases to monthly subscriptions, and how these costs translate into value for your business.
Van tracking systems use GPS devices in each vehicle to send location data to a software platform. The platform lets you see where your vans are in real time on a map, generate reports on driver behaviour and routes, and set up alerts (for example, for unauthorised use or maintenance reminders).
Because of this hardware-plus-software setup, van tracker costs typically include both an upfront payment for the device (and installation) and an ongoing service fee for data and software access. In the sections below, we'll explore how much van trackers cost (upfront vs. subscription), what factors affect the price, and why these systems are often worth the investment through the savings they provide.
The price of van tracking systems generally comes in two parts: the upfront cost of the tracking device and the subscription cost for the tracking service. Some providers charge a one-time fee for the hardware, while others include the device for free but require a monthly fee for the service. Understanding the split between these costs is key to budgeting for a van tracker.
Upfront Device Costs: If you buy GPS fleet tracking units outright, expect roughly £50–£300 per van, depending on the sophistication. High-end hardwired van trackers with advanced features can cost £300+ each. This might include professional installation (some providers install for free). Owning the hardware means no monthly device rental, but you'll still need a data plan or software platform to use the van tracker.
Monthly Subscription Costs: Most fleet tracking solutions charge a recurring fee per vehicle instead. Subscription costs typically range from about £5 to £15 per month per van for basic tracking, and more for feature-rich plans. Entry-level services start around £7–£10/month per van. The subscription covers the tracking software, mobile data SIM, updates, and support. Premium plans (with extras like driver analytics or dashcam integration) will be at the higher end of the range.
RAM Tracking offers long-term deals as low as £8.99 per month on a 5-year term. Explore pricing and packages.
There are two main pricing models for van trackers: paying all at once upfront, or paying ongoing via subscription.
What: This means you buy the van tracking device outright.
Pros: no ongoing payments for hardware, potentially cheaper in the long run, and you own the equipment (giving flexibility to switch platforms or providers).
Cons: higher initial cost, and you must handle the device setup, SIM/data plan, and any software yourself. Features may be more limited without a professional service, and technology can become outdated (meaning future upgrade costs).
What: This means little or no upfront cost, the vehicle tracking provider supplies the device, and you pay a recurring fee.
Pros: low startup cost, plus installation, robust software features, connectivity, and support are all included. It’s convenient and scalable, with the provider maintaining the system.
Cons: the total cost can be higher over time, and you're usually locked into a contract. You also don't own the devices, so if you cancel the service, you may have to return them.
In short, if you have just one or two vans and need a bare-bones solution with no ongoing fees, an upfront purchase might suffice. But for most businesses that want reliable van tracking, rich features, and minimal hassle, a subscription model offers better value despite the monthly cost.
Not all van tracking systems are priced equally. Several factors influence how much you'll pay:
Hardware Type: The type of van tracker affects cost. Simple plug-and-play units (that plug into the van’s OBD port) tend to be cheaper than hardwired units that require installation. Rugged or feature-packed devices (with tamper alerts, internal batteries, etc.) will cost more than basic models.
Features and Functionality: The more advanced features you need, the higher the price. Basic vehicle tracking provides location updates, while premium systems add things like driver behaviour monitoring, fuel usage reports, or even integrated dash cams. These extra features often come in higher-tier plans or as add-ons, so if you only need simple tracking, you can opt for a cheaper plan, but if you want all the bells and whistles, expect to pay more.
Installation and Maintenance: Professional installation will add to the upfront cost unless it's included. Some providers include installation free, especially for multi-vehicle installs or contract customers. If not, installation might cost around £50-£100 per vehicle. Also consider maintenance; many subscription services include free device replacement or warranties, which is part of what you pay for in the fee.
Data Connectivity: Van trackers transmit data via a mobile network. In most cases, the SIM and data charges are bundled into the subscription. If you're sourcing your own SIM, you'll need to factor in that monthly data cost. (Real-time van trackers that send frequent updates use more data, but most systems optimise data use.) If your vans travel abroad, an international roaming SIM (or extra fees) may influence the cost as well.
Fleet Size and Contract Length: The number of vehicles you're tracking and your commitment term can influence the price per unit. Providers often offer volume discounts; the more vans you equip, the lower the per-van cost. Likewise, signing a longer contract (e.g. 3 or 5 years) usually brings the monthly price down. A single van on a month-to-month plan will cost more per month than a fleet of 20 vans on a 3-year deal.
Provider and Package: Prices vary by provider. Big-name telematics companies with very comprehensive platforms may charge a premium, while smaller providers or DIY solutions can be cheaper. Also, look at what's included in the package, for example, some services include driver training, analytics dashboards, or an insurance certificate for having van trackers (which could help reduce your insurance costs). When comparing quotes, make sure you're comparing apples to apples in terms of features and support.
Understanding these factors will help you make sense of quotes from different providers and choose a van tracking solution that fits your budget and requirements.
After looking at the costs, you might ask: Are van trackers actually worth it? For most businesses, the answer is yes – the benefits and savings usually outweigh the expenses. Here are some ways a van tracker can deliver a return on investment:
Fuel savings: GPS fleet tracking often leads to lower fuel bills. By cutting excessive idling and optimising routes, companies frequently reduce fuel consumption by around 10–20%. These fuel savings alone can make the system pay for itself within the first year, sometimes in just a few months of use.
Improved efficiency and productivity: With real-time visibility, you can dispatch the closest van to a job, avoid unnecessary detours, and keep drivers on schedule. Many businesses find they can complete more jobs per day with the same number of vehicles, directly boosting revenue and efficiency.
Theft prevention and recovery: A van tracker is a powerful theft deterrent and recovery tool. If a vehicle is stolen, you can locate it quickly and inform the authorities. In fact, vehicles with trackers have extremely high recovery rates (often over 90%) compared to those without van trackers. Preventing even one stolen van (or recovering it fast before it's damaged) can save you tens of thousands of pounds.
Lower insurance premiums: Many insurers offer discounts if you have an approved van GPS tracker, because they know the risk is lower. Fleet insurance premiums can drop by 15%–30% when vehicles are tracked. Over time, those savings on insurance can be substantial, effectively offsetting some of the tracking costs.
Compliance and accountability: A fleet tracking devices automatically log driving hours, routes, and stops. This helps with regulatory compliance (for example, keeping accurate records for work hours or tax purposes) and eliminates manual logbooks. It also increases accountability, you have a clear record if there are any disputes about where a van was at a certain time.
Maintenance alerts: Many van tracking systems will remind you of maintenance due (like servicing or MOTs) based on mileage. Staying on top of maintenance can prevent breakdowns and expensive repairs. Also, monitoring driver behaviour (like harsh braking or speeding) helps reduce wear and tear on your vans, saving on maintenance in the long run.
To put the benefits in perspective, one RAM Tracking customer (CK Rail) reportedly saved £50,000 in fuel in a single year by using van trackers to optimise routes and eliminate excessive idling. That kind of saving far exceeds the cost of the van tracking system. Even if your fleet is smaller, you can expect proportionate savings that validate the investment.
In short, van trackers tend to pay for themselves quickly by cutting costs and improving operations. After that, they continue to deliver value year after year. Beyond the financial ROI, they also provide peace of mind and smoother fleet management, which is hard to put a price on.
Ultimately, when evaluating van tracker cost, it's important to weigh it against the potential savings and benefits. In most cases, businesses find that investing in van trackers is a smart move that pays off through lower fuel and insurance costs, improved productivity, and enhanced security.
The question often becomes: can you afford not to have them? By choosing the right vehicle tracking solution for your needs, you'll gain a more efficient, secure, and profitable operation that justifies the expense many times over.
Want to see how a van tracking system can benefit your business? Book a demo with RAM Tracking today.
Richard Howard brings nearly a decade of front-line sales experience at RAM Tracking, 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 optimise 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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