Business
January 8, 2023
10 min

Sim-Based Tracking in Logistics: What You Need to Know, 25 FAQ

Author
Mukesh Deogune
  1. What is sim-based tracking?
    Sim-based tracking is a way to track the location of a vehicle or other asset using the SIM card installed in a phone or other device. The SIM card connects to the mobile network and can transmit location data to a central server or control tower, allowing the asset to be tracked in real-time.
  2. How accurate is sim-based tracking?
    Sim-based tracking is generally less accurate than traditional GPS tracking systems, with a location accuracy of around 100-200 meters. However, this level of accuracy may be sufficient for many logistics applications.
  3. Does sim-based tracking require internet connectivity or additional hardware?
    No, sim-based tracking does not require internet connectivity or additional hardware. It utilizes the SIM card installed in the phone or device to connect to the mobile network and transmit location data.
  4. Is sim-based tracking reliable in areas with limited or no connectivity?
    Yes, sim-based tracking is generally more reliable in areas with limited or no connectivity compared to traditional GPS tracking systems, which rely on satellite signals and internet connectivity.
  5. Does sim-based tracking respect the privacy of drivers and other stakeholders?
    Yes, many sim-based tracking systems utilize consent-based tracking, which requires the user to provide consent before tracking begins and allows tracking to be stopped or paused at any time. This helps to respect the privacy of drivers and other stakeholders.
  6. How do I start sim based tracking for a shipment or asset?
    To start sim-based tracking, you will typically need the phone number of the device or asset you want to track. You can then enter this phone number into the tracking system, and a consent request will be sent via SMS to the device. The user can confirm their consent by replying "Y" or giving a missed call, and tracking will begin.
  7. Can I stop or pause sim-based tracking at any time?
    Yes, many sim based tracking systems allow tracking to be stopped or paused at any time. This can be done through the tracking system or by the user by canceling their consent.
  8. Is sim-based tracking subject to the availability and coverage of the mobile network?
    Yes, sim-based tracking is subject to the availability and coverage of the mobile network. If the device is in an area with limited or no mobile network coverage, tracking may not be possible.
  9. Can I track multiple assets or shipments at the same time with sim-based tracking?
    Yes, sim-based tracking systems typically allow you to track multiple assets or shipments at the same time. You can enter the phone numbers of all the devices you want to track into the system, and you will be able to view the location and status of all tracked assets in real-time.
  10. What other data can sim-based tracking systems provide in addition to location?
    In addition to location, sim-based tracking systems may also be able to provide other data such as speed, direction, and status updates. This can be useful for logistics operations that need to monitor the progress of shipments or optimize routes.
  11. Can I use sim-based tracking with any phone or device?
    Sim-based tracking typically requires a phone or device with a SIM card installed. This can include smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices that are connected to the mobile network.
  12. Are there any ongoing costs associated with sim-based tracking?
    There may be ongoing costs associated with sim-based tracking, such as fees for the tracking service or charges for mobile data usage. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of any sim-based tracking service to understand any potential costs.
  13. Can I integrate sim-based tracking with other systems or software?
    Some sim-based tracking systems may offer integration with other systems or software, such as transportation management systems (TMS) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. This can allow you to seamlessly incorporate sim-based tracking data into your existing logistics workflow.
  14. How secure is sim-based tracking?
    Sim-based tracking systems typically use secure servers and protocols to transmit data, and may also offer encryption to protect the privacy of tracked assets and users. It is important to carefully review the security measures of any sim-based tracking service to ensure that your data is protected.
  15. Are there any legal or regulatory considerations for sim-based tracking?
    There may be legal or regulatory considerations for sim-based tracking, depending on your location and industry. It is important to familiarize yourself with any relevant laws or regulations and ensure that you are compliant with them when using sim-based tracking.
  16. Can I use sim-based tracking for international shipments?
    Sim-based tracking may be available for international shipments, depending on the service provider and the mobile network coverage in the destination country. It is important to check with the service provider or consult a map of mobile network coverage to determine if sim-based tracking is available for international shipments.
  17. Can I customize the frequency or intervals of location updates with sim-based tracking?
    It may be possible to customize the frequency or intervals of location updates with sim-based tracking, depending on the service provider. Some providers may allow you to set custom intervals or configure real-time tracking, while others may have fixed intervals.
  18. Can I set up alerts or notifications with sim-based tracking?
    Many sim-based tracking systems offer the ability to set up alerts or notifications based on specific conditions or events. For example, you may be able to set up an alert to notify you if a shipment is delayed or if a vehicle deviates from its expected route.
  19. Is sim-based tracking suitable for all types of logistics operations?
    Sim-based tracking may be suitable for a wide range of logistics operations, but it may not be suitable for all types of logistics. Factors to consider include the accuracy requirements of your operations, the availability and coverage of the mobile network, and any legal or regulatory considerations.
  20. Is sim-based tracking the same as GPS tracking?
    Sim-based tracking and GPS tracking are similar in that they both allow you to track the location of assets in real-time. However, they differ in how they determine location. GPS tracking uses satellite signals to determine location, while sim-based tracking uses the SIM card installed in a phone or device to connect to the mobile network and transmit location data.
  21. What is Traqo and what does it do?
    Traqo is a no-code logistics management platform that provides complete visibility across the freight cycle for shippers and carriers. It offers a range of modules for tasks such as freight procurement (e-auction), delivery tracking (sim-based tracking), SLA tower, fund automation/audit, and invoicing.
  22. How does Traqo's delivery tracking work?
    Traqo uses sim-based tracking to track the location and status of deliveries in real-time. The driver's phone number is punched into the Traqo app, and a consent request is sent via SMS to the driver's phone. Once consent is received, tracking begins and location data is transmitted at regular intervals. When the driver reaches their destination, tracking stops and consent is revoked. No additional hardware, internet connectivity, or apps are required on the driver's phone.
  23. How accurate is Traqo's delivery tracking?
    Traqo's delivery tracking is generally accurate to within a range of 100-200 meters. This level of accuracy may be sufficient for many logistics applications.
  24. Does Traqo's delivery tracking respect the privacy of drivers and other stakeholders?
    Yes, Traqo's delivery tracking is consent-based, which means that tracking only begins once the driver has provided consent. Tracking can be stopped or paused at any time by the driver or through the Traqo app. This helps to respect the privacy of drivers and other stakeholders.
  25. Can I use Traqo's delivery tracking for international shipments?
    It is possible to use Traqo's delivery tracking for international shipments, but it will depend on the availability and coverage of the mobile network in the destination country. It is important to consult a map of mobile network coverage to determine if Traqo's delivery tracking is available for international shipments.

That's why Traqo is here. Traqo makes your supply chain management smooth with its top-notch transport management solution. You can reduce your logistics costs, save 70% of the time in Vehicle Finalization and Increase logistics efficiency by 68%. Traqo will help you to manage the fleet and reduce vehicle detention.

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https://wiki.traqo.io/

Written by
Mukesh Deogune
Co-founder

From researcher to entrepreneur

Happy to find some synergies, reach me at mukesh@traqo.in

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