When a trailer leaves your yard, you want to know two things: where it is and whether it is safe. Unfortunately, trailers are among the easiest assets to lose track of. Theft, underutilization, or idle time can cost fleets thousands of dollars each year. A GPS trailer tracking system offers the visibility needed to secure assets, reduce losses, and improve utilization.
But not all trackers are built the same. Some last for years without maintenance, while others need constant recharging. Some are rugged enough for harsh weather, while others fail under pressure.
In this guide, we compare three leading solutions to help you find the best trailer tracker for your fleet. We look at GPS Insight, Samsara, and Verizon Connect, and by the end, you will see why GPS Insight stands out as the most practical and reliable choice for fleets in 2025.
How Trailer GPS Tracking Works?
At its core, trailer GPS tracking is about connecting your assets to a system that tells you exactly where they are and how they are being used. The process may sound technical, but it is straightforward once broken down.
- Satellites provide the location signals
Dozens of GPS satellites orbit the Earth, constantly sending signals that allow receivers to calculate their exact position. When the best GPS tracker is attached to a trailer, it listens to these signals and pinpoints the trailer’s location down to a few meters. - The tracking device records and transmits data
The GPS unit installed on the trailer does more than just log latitude and longitude. Depending on the model, it can detect whether the trailer is moving or stationary, track mileage, and even record when doors are opened or closed. Some trackers are also capable of monitoring environmental conditions like temperature or humidity, which is especially important in cold chain transport. - Data is sent to the fleet dashboard or mobile app
Once collected, the information is transmitted through a cellular or satellite network to a secure platform. Fleet managers can then log into a dashboard or open a mobile app to see the trailer on a live map. Beyond simple dots on a screen, the dashboard allows users to:
- Set alerts for unauthorized movements or after-hours activity.
- Generate utilization reports showing which trailers are sitting idle.
- Track historical routes for compliance or customer billing.
- Power sources keep the system running
For the device to stay active, it needs a reliable power source. There are three common options:
- Long-life batteries: Some devices can run for years on a single internal battery.
- Solar panels: Solar-assisted trackers recharge themselves during daylight, which is ideal for long deployments with little human intervention.
- Wired connections: Trackers can also be powered directly from the trailer’s electrical system if it is regularly connected to a truck or power source.
- Alerts and automation close the loop
The true benefit of GPS trailer tracking comes when alerts and automation are put to work. If a trailer moves without authorization, an instant notification can be sent to a manager’s phone. If a trailer has been idle for weeks, a utilization report highlights it, helping managers redeploy underused assets. This not only improves security but also ensures every trailer is working toward the bottom line.
In short, GPS trailer tracking turns a once passive asset into an actively managed part of the fleet. From satellites in space down to a notification on your phone, every step of the process works together to keep your trailers safe, visible, and productive.
For a quick technical reference on GPS systems, the National Institute of Standards and Technology explains how satellites and ground systems work together to deliver accurate positioning.
GPS Insight Trailer Tracker: Built for Long-Term Fleet Success
Among the three providers, GPS Insight has carved a strong reputation for combining durability, affordability, and ease of use. Unlike many trackers that focus on short-term convenience, GPS Insight designs devices that work for the long haul.
Key Strengths of GPS Insight Trailer Trackers
- Industry-leading battery life
GPS Insight offers trailer trackers with a lifespan of up to 10 years on a single charge, supported by solar-powered options that virtually eliminate the need for maintenance. For fleets with hundreds of trailers, this means less downtime for servicing and fewer missed pings caused by dead batteries.
- Rugged durability
Devices are tested to the highest waterproof and dustproof ratings, IP68/IP69K, which means they survive extreme conditions, from heavy rain to pressure washing. This makes them ideal for construction fleets, heavy-duty transport, and long-haul trucking, where trailers face constant exposure to the elements.
- Real-time visibility
Fleet managers can monitor trailers on a live map, set alerts for unauthorized movement, and generate reports on trailer utilization. This not only helps prevent theft but also identifies trailers that sit idle for too long, improving efficiency across operations.
- Easy integration with fleet management systems
GPS Insight trackers are designed to work seamlessly within broader telematics platforms. If you already use GPS Insight for vehicles, adding trailer tracking is a natural extension, providing one unified dashboard for all assets.
- Dedicated U.S.-based support
Customer support is available 24/7 with teams based in the U.S. This is a critical advantage for fleets that operate around the clock and cannot afford long downtimes while waiting for assistance.
- Affordable pricing
Starting at around $14.95 per month, GPS Insight provides one of the most cost-effective solutions in the industry while delivering premium durability and features.
These strengths combine to make GPS Insight the most balanced choice for fleets that care about both short-term protection and long-term operational value.
Samsara Trailer Tracker Review
Samsara offers trailer tracking as part of its larger telematics ecosystem. While the company has built a name in connected fleet technology, its trailer tracking options come with limitations.
- Battery Life: Roughly one week before recharging is required. This creates a burden for fleets with many trailers.
- Power Options: Mostly wired, with limited solar-powered availability.
- Durability: IP65 rating, offering dust protection and limited water resistance.
- Features: Integrates with Samsara’s other systems, such as dash cams and environmental sensors, but the trackers themselves lack long-term independence.
- Support: Feedback from customers indicates that support is functional but not always responsive to urgent fleet needs.
For fleets already locked into Samsara’s ecosystem, trailer tracking may be a convenient add-on. However, as a standalone option, it struggles to compete with GPS Insight’s durability and battery strength.
Verizon Connect Trailer Tracker Review
Verizon Connect provides asset trackers that tie into its cellular network. The offering is solid for fleets that already use Verizon services but comes with trade-offs.
- Battery Life: Lasts about four days, shorter than both GPS Insight and Samsara.
- Power Options: Mix of wired and solar-assisted models.
- Durability: IP67 water resistance, suitable for outdoor use but not as rugged as GPS Insight devices.
- Features: Provides utilization reports and motion alerts, supported by Verizon’s wide network coverage.
- Support: Customer feedback suggests mixed experiences, with delays in resolving service tickets.
While Verizon Connect benefits from its network strength, the devices themselves do not match the durability and lifespan offered by GPS Insight.
Side-by-Side Feature Comparison
With so many options available, it helps to see the details lined up together. The table below highlights the key differences in battery life, durability, pricing, and support across GPS Insight, Samsara, and Verizon Connect.
Feature | GPS Insight | Samsara | Verizon Connect |
Battery Life | Up to 10 years | About 1 week | About 4 days |
Solar Power | Yes | No | Yes |
Waterproof Rating | IP68/IP69K | IP65 | IP67 |
Price Range | From $14.95/month | Up to $40/month | From $23.50/month |
Mobile App | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Support | 24/7 U.S.-based | Limited | Mixed reviews |
This table makes one fact clear. GPS Insight leads in battery life, solar options, ruggedness, affordability, and support, making it the most complete option for trailer tracking in 2025.
How Much Does Trailer GPS Tracking Cost?
- GPS Insight: Starting from $14.95 per month per device, GPS Insight is one of the most affordable options available. What makes it stand out is not just the low monthly fee, but the long-term savings it creates. With up to 10 years of battery life and solar-powered options, fleets avoid constant recharging, battery replacements, and service interruptions. This translates into lower maintenance costs and less downtime across hundreds of trailers.
Add in 24/7 U.S.-based support and a highly durable IP68/IP69K waterproof rating, and the total cost of ownership becomes far more favorable compared to competitors. For fleets looking to scale, GPS Insight offers flexible pricing tiers and can integrate seamlessly with existing fleet management platforms, ensuring you get more value for every dollar spent.
- Samsara: Typically up to $40 per unit per month. While it offers strong integration with Samsara’s ecosystem of cameras and sensors, the short battery life (about one week) and lack of solar-powered options often lead to higher hidden costs. Frequent recharging and more maintenance time reduce overall efficiency, which makes the high monthly price harder to justify unless you are already locked into their ecosystem.
- Verizon Connect: Starts around $23.50 per month. Verizon benefits from its broad cellular network, but the devices themselves have a shorter battery life of about 4 days. Fleets may need to invest in additional maintenance cycles, adding to the true cost of ownership. Mixed reviews on support also mean longer downtimes when issues arise.
While monthly subscription fees are part of any trailer tracking solution, GPS Insight reduces hidden costs by cutting down on battery swaps, minimizing downtime, and ensuring reliable support.
Key Takeaways
- GPS Insight leads with a 10-year battery, solar power, and rugged durability.
- Samsara suits existing users but costs more with a short battery life.
- Verizon Connect has good coverage but weaker support and durability.
- GPS Insight delivers better long-term value with lower maintenance costs.
- The best trailer tracker in 2025 for security and ROI is GPS Insight.
Ready to Secure Your Trailers with the Right GPS Solution?
When comparing GPS Insight, Samsara, and Verizon Connect, the differences stand out. Samsara is most useful for fleets already committed to its ecosystem, but its short battery life and limited durability reduce long-term value. Verizon Connect leverages strong network coverage, yet its devices require more frequent maintenance, and customer support feedback is inconsistent.
GPS Insight, on the other hand, provides the strongest combination of affordability, rugged construction, and long-term reliability. With up to 10 years of battery life, solar-powered options, an IP68/IP69K waterproof rating, and 24/7 U.S.-based support, it delivers the assurance fleets need to protect assets and maximize trailer utilization.
For businesses focused on preventing theft, improving visibility, and keeping every trailer productive, GPS Insight offers the best return on investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the difference between solar-powered and battery-powered GPS trackers?
Solar-powered devices recharge automatically, lasting years without intervention. Battery-only units may need recharging every few days or weeks.
Q2:Are GPS trailer trackers waterproof?
Yes. Devices typically carry IP65 to IP69K ratings, which means they are resistant to water, dust, and in some cases, high-pressure washdowns.
Q3:How often do GPS trackers update location data?
Most trackers provide real-time updates or interval reporting every 30 seconds to 15 minutes, depending on configuration.
Q4:Do trailer GPS devices require monthly subscriptions?
Yes. The subscription covers the data plan that transmits information from the tracker to your dashboard.
Q5:Can GPS Insight trackers work in rural or remote areas?
Yes. They combine satellite-based GPS with cellular connectivity to maintain coverage in both urban and remote regions.
Refer to our FAQs for more information about GPS Insight tracking.
