GPS and telematics are now standard on many Texas and Louisiana fleets, and the easiest time to plan them is before the body goes on. At Star Truck Equipment in Wharton, TX, we upfit flatbeds, service bodies and cranes, and a little planning saves rework.
What Telematics Can Do
- Live location and route history for dispatch and customer ETAs.
- Engine hours, idle time and fuel use reporting.
- Driver behavior data such as speeding and hard braking.
- Maintenance reminders tied to mileage or hours, which pairs well with a preventive maintenance checklist.
- Theft recovery support; see our tool theft prevention guide.
Plan Before the Upfit
- Device location: OBD-port trackers are easy, but hardwired units can be hidden and tamper-resistant. Decide before compartments and wiring are laid out.
- Power: Hardwired devices need a clean, fused feed. Ask your installer to share a circuit plan with the body upfit and any LED lighting work.
- Antenna placement: Metal bodies and tool compartments can block signal. Mount antennas where they have a clear view of the sky.
- Auxiliary inputs: Many units can monitor PTO, crane or light-bar use, useful for billing and for tracking equipment hours.
- Trailer and equipment tags: If you tow, consider separate asset trackers.
Coverage in Rural Areas
Ranch and oilfield routes in Texas and Louisiana can have patchy cell service. Ask providers about satellite or multi-carrier options and whether data is stored and uploaded when signal returns.
Other Things to Check
- Contract term, monthly fee per vehicle and hardware cost.
- Whether your insurer offers a discount; see work truck insurance.
- Driver privacy and policy for personal use of company trucks.
- Possible deductions; ask your CPA, and see our Section 179 guide.
Talk to Our Team
Tell us you plan to add telematics when you order and we will account for wiring and mounting in the build. Call Star Truck Equipment in Wharton, TX at (979) 532-1486 or browse our truck beds for sale. We serve Texas and Louisiana fleets.
