Quick Overview
- 1#1: Samsara - Offers real-time GPS tracking, AI-powered insights, and gateway devices for comprehensive trailer visibility and fleet management.
- 2#2: Geotab - Provides advanced telematics with trailer tracking modules, including GPS, temperature monitoring, and integration with fleet systems.
- 3#3: Motive - Delivers ELD-compliant tracking with trailer GPS, utilization reporting, and security features for trucking operations.
- 4#4: Verizon Connect - Features robust fleet telematics including trailer tracking, geofencing, and analytics for logistics efficiency.
- 5#5: Spireon - Specializes in asset tracking for trailers with solar-powered GPS, door sensors, and reefer monitoring.
- 6#6: Teletrac Navman - Supplies Director platform for trailer location, status alerts, and video telematics integration.
- 7#7: Omnitracs - Provides end-to-end fleet solutions with trailer tracking, yard management, and compliance tools.
- 8#8: Trimble - Offers transportation management software with trailer GPS tracking and supply chain visibility.
- 9#9: Zonar Systems - Delivers fleet intelligence including trailer telematics, pre-trip inspections, and utilization metrics.
- 10#10: CalAmp - Provides IoT-based PULS platform for trailer tracking with battery-powered GPS and sensor integration.
We ranked tools based on key metrics: robust feature sets (including real-time tracking and sensor integration), user-friendly design, and overall value, ensuring they deliver measurable benefits for trucking and supply chain management.
Comparison Table
Trailer tracking software is critical for optimizing fleet efficiency, and this comparison table features top tools such as Samsara, Geotab, Motive, Verizon Connect, Spireon, and more. It contrasts key features and capabilities, helping readers identify the best fit for their operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Samsara Offers real-time GPS tracking, AI-powered insights, and gateway devices for comprehensive trailer visibility and fleet management. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Geotab Provides advanced telematics with trailer tracking modules, including GPS, temperature monitoring, and integration with fleet systems. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Motive Delivers ELD-compliant tracking with trailer GPS, utilization reporting, and security features for trucking operations. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Verizon Connect Features robust fleet telematics including trailer tracking, geofencing, and analytics for logistics efficiency. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Spireon Specializes in asset tracking for trailers with solar-powered GPS, door sensors, and reefer monitoring. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Teletrac Navman Supplies Director platform for trailer location, status alerts, and video telematics integration. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Omnitracs Provides end-to-end fleet solutions with trailer tracking, yard management, and compliance tools. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Trimble Offers transportation management software with trailer GPS tracking and supply chain visibility. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 9 | Zonar Systems Delivers fleet intelligence including trailer telematics, pre-trip inspections, and utilization metrics. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | CalAmp Provides IoT-based PULS platform for trailer tracking with battery-powered GPS and sensor integration. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
Offers real-time GPS tracking, AI-powered insights, and gateway devices for comprehensive trailer visibility and fleet management.
Provides advanced telematics with trailer tracking modules, including GPS, temperature monitoring, and integration with fleet systems.
Delivers ELD-compliant tracking with trailer GPS, utilization reporting, and security features for trucking operations.
Features robust fleet telematics including trailer tracking, geofencing, and analytics for logistics efficiency.
Specializes in asset tracking for trailers with solar-powered GPS, door sensors, and reefer monitoring.
Supplies Director platform for trailer location, status alerts, and video telematics integration.
Provides end-to-end fleet solutions with trailer tracking, yard management, and compliance tools.
Offers transportation management software with trailer GPS tracking and supply chain visibility.
Delivers fleet intelligence including trailer telematics, pre-trip inspections, and utilization metrics.
Provides IoT-based PULS platform for trailer tracking with battery-powered GPS and sensor integration.
Samsara
enterpriseOffers real-time GPS tracking, AI-powered insights, and gateway devices for comprehensive trailer visibility and fleet management.
Long-life, solar-rechargeable Asset Gateway enabling precise tracking without trailer power or frequent maintenance
Samsara is a comprehensive IoT platform specializing in fleet and asset management, with advanced trailer tracking via its rugged Asset Gateway devices that provide GPS location, utilization tracking, and environmental monitoring. It delivers real-time visibility into trailer status, including door events, cargo presence, and geofencing alerts, integrating seamlessly with vehicle telematics for full supply chain oversight. The cloud-based dashboard offers AI-driven insights, custom reports, and compliance tools to optimize trailer operations and reduce empty miles.
Pros
- Real-time GPS tracking with up to 10-year battery life on Asset Gateways
- Advanced sensors for door status, cargo sensing, and temperature/humidity
- Seamless integration with ELD, dash cams, and analytics for end-to-end visibility
Cons
- Premium pricing may be steep for small fleets
- Professional installation recommended for optimal setup
- Advanced features have a moderate learning curve
Best For
Enterprise fleets and logistics companies needing robust, scalable trailer tracking with deep analytics.
Pricing
Custom quotes; hardware $250-500 per trailer, subscription $25-45 per asset/month depending on features and volume.
Geotab
enterpriseProvides advanced telematics with trailer tracking modules, including GPS, temperature monitoring, and integration with fleet systems.
Asset Gateway for autonomous trailer tracking when detached from powered vehicles
Geotab is a leading telematics platform offering comprehensive trailer tracking solutions through its GO devices and add-on sensors, providing real-time GPS location, utilization metrics, and condition monitoring for trailers. It excels in tracking detached trailers via battery-powered gateways and integrates seamlessly with truck telematics for full fleet visibility. The MyGeotab dashboard delivers actionable insights on asset utilization, security, and maintenance to optimize operations.
Pros
- Extensive sensor integration for door status, temperature, and cargo security
- Scalable platform with advanced analytics and API integrations
- Proven reliability for large-scale deployments with global coverage
Cons
- Requires hardware installation and upfront costs for trailer gateways
- Steeper learning curve for advanced custom reporting
- Pricing can escalate for fleets needing extensive add-ons
Best For
Large fleets with mixed vehicle-trailer operations seeking integrated end-to-end telematics.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $20-40 per trailer/month plus one-time hardware fees starting at $100-300 per unit.
Motive
enterpriseDelivers ELD-compliant tracking with trailer GPS, utilization reporting, and security features for trucking operations.
AI-driven trailer utilization tracking that automatically detects empty/loaded status via integrated telematics data
Motive (gomotive.com) is an AI-powered fleet management platform with specialized trailer tracking capabilities, using GPS hardware to monitor real-time location, door status, temperature for reefers, and utilization metrics. It integrates trailer data with truck telematics, ELDs, and dash cams for comprehensive visibility across assets. The solution provides geofencing alerts, utilization reports, and predictive maintenance insights to optimize fleet operations and reduce empty miles.
Pros
- Seamless integration with vehicle tracking, ELD, and AI dash cams for holistic fleet management
- Real-time alerts for geofencing, door opens, and temperature thresholds
- Advanced utilization analytics to minimize empty trailer miles and downtime
Cons
- Higher upfront hardware costs and subscription fees for full features
- Steeper learning curve for non-fleet managers due to extensive platform options
- Limited standalone trailer focus; best as part of broader Motive suite
Best For
Mid-sized to large fleets managing both trucks and trailers that need integrated telematics and compliance tools.
Pricing
Trailer tracking at $25-$35/month per trailer plus $250-$400 one-time GPS hardware fee; enterprise bundles available.
Verizon Connect
enterpriseFeatures robust fleet telematics including trailer tracking, geofencing, and analytics for logistics efficiency.
Long-life battery-powered GPS trackers with up to 10 years of service for unpowered trailer visibility
Verizon Connect is a robust fleet telematics platform offering specialized trailer tracking through GPS devices, sensors, and integration with its broader vehicle management system. It delivers real-time location visibility, utilization metrics, geofencing, temperature monitoring for reefer trailers, and door open/close alerts to optimize asset utilization and security. The solution leverages Verizon's extensive cellular network for reliable connectivity, even on unpowered trailers, helping fleets reduce empty miles and improve operational efficiency.
Pros
- Superior nationwide cellular coverage via Verizon network
- Advanced hardware options like long-life battery GPS and multi-sensors
- Comprehensive reporting and integration with ELD and dispatch systems
Cons
- High cost with custom quotes lacking transparency
- Steep learning curve for full platform features
- Overkill for small fleets focused solely on basic tracking
Best For
Large trucking and logistics fleets needing integrated vehicle-trailer telematics with enterprise-grade reliability.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $25-$50 per trailer/month depending on features and volume.
Spireon
specializedSpecializes in asset tracking for trailers with solar-powered GPS, door sensors, and reefer monitoring.
Ultra-long battery life (up to 10 years) on passive GPS trackers, enabling maintenance-free deployment for years.
Spireon offers advanced trailer tracking software through platforms like AssetGate and KanTrack, providing GPS-based real-time location monitoring, utilization reporting, and status alerts for trailers. It integrates rugged, long-life battery GPS devices with a cloud dashboard for geofencing, door sensors, temperature monitoring (for reefers), and maintenance scheduling. The solution helps fleets optimize asset utilization, reduce empty miles, and improve security across dry vans, reefers, and other trailers.
Pros
- Long-lasting battery-powered GPS hardware (up to 10 years), minimizing maintenance
- Comprehensive utilization analytics and reporting for optimizing trailer dispatch
- Robust integrations with telematics, ELDs, and warehouse systems
Cons
- Higher upfront hardware and subscription costs compared to basic trackers
- Dashboard interface can feel dated and overwhelming for new users
- Customer support response times vary, with some setup delays reported
Best For
Large trucking fleets and logistics companies managing 100+ trailers that prioritize detailed utilization insights and reliable hardware durability.
Pricing
Hardware starts at $250-500 per unit; monthly subscriptions $25-45 per trailer, with enterprise custom pricing and volume discounts.
Teletrac Navman
enterpriseSupplies Director platform for trailer location, status alerts, and video telematics integration.
Automated hooked/unhooked status detection with long-life battery-powered GPS trackers
Teletrac Navman provides comprehensive trailer tracking through its TN360 platform, offering real-time GPS visibility for trailers whether attached or detached from trucks. Key capabilities include asset utilization reporting, geofencing alerts, temperature monitoring for refrigerated units, and theft prevention features. It integrates seamlessly with broader fleet management tools to optimize logistics operations and regulatory compliance.
Pros
- Robust real-time tracking with hooked/unhooked detection
- Advanced sensors for temperature and cargo security
- Strong integration with ELD and fleet compliance tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small fleets
- Dashboard interface may overwhelm new users
- Limited standalone trailer options without full fleet subscription
Best For
Mid-to-large fleet operators seeking integrated vehicle and trailer telematics for enhanced supply chain visibility.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $25-$45 per trailer/month depending on features and volume.
Omnitracs
enterpriseProvides end-to-end fleet solutions with trailer tracking, yard management, and compliance tools.
Battery-powered Asset Trackers with 5+ year life for powerless trailer visibility and automated yard check-in/out
Omnitracs is a leading fleet management platform offering robust trailer tracking through its Asset Intelligence suite, providing GPS-enabled visibility for trailers, containers, and other assets. It delivers real-time location updates, geofencing alerts, utilization analytics, and integration with door sensors and temperature monitoring for refrigerated trailers. The solution excels in enterprise-scale deployments, combining trailer data with driver ELDs and dispatch systems for end-to-end supply chain oversight.
Pros
- Comprehensive real-time GPS tracking with long-battery-life devices and multi-sensor support (doors, temps)
- Seamless integration with broader fleet management tools like ELDs and TMS
- Advanced analytics for trailer utilization, dwell time, and empty mile reduction
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup for non-enterprise users
- High pricing requires custom quotes, less ideal for small fleets
- Occasional reports of delayed customer support response times
Best For
Large trucking and logistics fleets seeking integrated asset tracking within a full TMS ecosystem.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $25-$60 per trailer/month plus hardware/installation fees.
Trimble
enterpriseOffers transportation management software with trailer GPS tracking and supply chain visibility.
Vibration-powered GPS trackers that harvest energy from road movement, eliminating battery replacements.
Trimble provides enterprise-grade trailer tracking through its telematics platform, including GPS devices like the TM-1850 series that offer real-time location, geofencing, and utilization monitoring for trailers. Integrated with Trimble's Transportation Management System (TMS) and fleet software, it enables yard management, theft prevention, and cargo condition tracking via sensors. The solution emphasizes reliability in harsh environments, with options for reefer trailers and seamless ERP integrations.
Pros
- Highly reliable hardware with long battery life and rugged design
- Comprehensive analytics for trailer utilization and yard efficiency
- Strong integrations with TMS, ELD, and enterprise systems
Cons
- Complex setup and steep learning curve for smaller teams
- Pricing is quote-based and opaque, often expensive for mid-sized fleets
- Overkill for basic tracking needs without full fleet ecosystem
Best For
Large logistics and transportation companies with complex yard operations needing integrated enterprise telematics.
Pricing
Custom quote-based; typically $25-45 per trailer/month plus $200-500 hardware per unit.
Zonar Systems
enterpriseDelivers fleet intelligence including trailer telematics, pre-trip inspections, and utilization metrics.
Hitchhiker Gateway for continuous GPS tracking and status monitoring without relying on trailer battery or power
Zonar Systems offers a robust telematics platform focused on fleet management, with specialized trailer tracking capabilities via GPS-enabled gateways and sensors that monitor location, door status, temperature, and utilization even when trailers are detached or unpowered. It integrates with ELDs, compliance tools, and maintenance systems for end-to-end visibility in trucking operations. The solution emphasizes reliability in harsh environments and provides real-time alerts and analytics to optimize trailer management.
Pros
- Power-independent GPS tracking via Hitchhiker and gateway devices
- Comprehensive sensor suite for temperature, doors, and cargo security
- Seamless integration with ELDs, inspections, and fleet compliance tools
Cons
- Quote-based enterprise pricing can be costly for smaller fleets
- Setup and configuration require technical expertise
- Dashboard interface feels dated compared to newer competitors
Best For
Large trucking and logistics fleets needing integrated, hardware-robust trailer tracking with compliance features.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $25-60 per trailer/month depending on features, sensors, and fleet scale.
CalAmp
specializedProvides IoT-based PULS platform for trailer tracking with battery-powered GPS and sensor integration.
TTU-series trackers with up to 10-year battery life for passive, maintenance-free deployment
CalAmp provides enterprise-grade trailer tracking solutions via its IoT telematics platform, featuring GPS-enabled devices for real-time location, utilization, and condition monitoring of trailers. Key capabilities include geofencing, door sensors, temperature/humidity tracking, and cargo sensing through rugged, long-battery-life hardware like the TTU-720. The web-based dashboard offers analytics, alerts, and integration with ERP systems for optimized fleet management and theft prevention.
Pros
- Rugged, long-life GPS hardware ideal for unpowered trailers
- Comprehensive sensor suite for condition monitoring
- Scalable platform with strong enterprise integrations
Cons
- High upfront hardware and subscription costs
- Steep learning curve for setup and configuration
- Less intuitive interface compared to consumer-focused tools
Best For
Large-scale fleets and transportation companies needing robust, hardware-centric trailer visibility.
Pricing
Hardware $150-400 per unit; monthly SaaS $15-35 per trailer (enterprise pricing custom)
Conclusion
The reviewed trailer tracking tools redefine efficiency, with Samsara leading as the top choice for its robust real-time GPS, AI insights, and comprehensive visibility. Geotab and Motive stand out as strong alternatives, offering advanced telematics and ELD compliance respectively, catering to varied operational needs.
Start with Samsara to unlock seamless trailer management and take your fleet operations to the next level.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison