The State of Asset‑Tracking Hardware (2018‑2020): Trends, Technologies, and Future Outlook

In today’s world, knowing the exact location of critical assets—from hospital imaging equipment to delivery trucks and even personal vehicles—has become a standard expectation. Whether you’re in healthcare, logistics, construction, or manufacturing, the ability to monitor physical assets in real time offers unparalleled visibility, reduces loss, and enhances customer service.

Many organizations still haven’t adopted asset‑tracking solutions. If you’re unsure whether this technology could benefit your operations, consider whether you need greater operational transparency, tighter loss prevention, or improved service levels. Once you recognize the value, the next step is to choose the right hardware for your use case.

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Outdoor (GPS‑Based) Tracking

GPS tracking is most often used for monitoring fleets and in‑transit shipments. This segment is mature, leveraging cost‑effective cellular backhaul such as GSM and 2G. Typical deployments range from compact OBD‑plug devices to magnetic, battery‑powered trackers that attach directly to vehicles.

Despite its affordability, vehicle GPS tracking is gradually being eclipsed by smartphone‑based solutions. Most employees already own a phone, and a lightweight app can provide location data with minimal installation effort. However, this shift introduces new concerns: Will employees consent to a company app on their personal devices? Who will cover data costs? Should employers supply phones to ensure compliance? These questions must be addressed before full adoption.

Moreover, emerging technologies like LTE‑M and WiFi sniffing are expanding the definition of “tracking.” LTE‑M offers lower power consumption and extended battery life, enabling the placement of trackers inside cargo rather than on vehicles. Hybrid solutions that pair short‑range Bluetooth with LTE‑M backhaul reduce the number of required devices, lower costs, and eliminate the need to return dozens of trackers after a delivery.

Indoor Asset Tracking

Indoor tracking is gaining traction across many sectors. Healthcare facilities now use it to track lab samples and critical equipment, construction firms monitor workers and prefabricated components, and manufacturers keep tabs on inventory and tooling.

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) has become the most common indoor technology due to its ease of deployment and low cost. Other methods—ultra‑wideband (UWB) and WiFi‑based positioning—continue to mature, offering improved accuracy and simplified management. As these solutions become more affordable, they will become accessible to organizations of all sizes.

Location Tracking as a Cornerstone of the IoT

Location intelligence remains a foundational element of the Internet of Things. Many IoT applications—such as smart grids, predictive maintenance, and supply‑chain automation—require precise device location before they can deliver value. For example, a cold‑chain monitor in a pharmacy that automatically reports its position can reduce manual data entry and speed up logistics. Similarly, a “smart” appliance that communicates its location and status to the cloud could trigger timely maintenance, benefiting both homeowners and manufacturers. While these capabilities offer clear benefits, they also raise legitimate privacy concerns that warrant thoughtful discussion.

Ready to Deploy Asset‑Tracking Hardware Today?

Asset tracking is a proven way to boost productivity and cut costs. If you have a specific use case in mind, contact us. We’ll collaborate with you to select the most suitable connectivity solution and guide you through implementation.