When you're responsible for managing a fleet or valuable equipment—whether it's vehicles, machinery, or tools—the last thing you want is guesswork. Asset tracking offers a practical way to reduce losses, improve operational efficiency, and stay compliant. But one of the first questions we hear from businesses across construction, utilities, facilities management and more is: how much should asset tracking actually cost?
The answer? It depends—on what you're tracking, how you're tracking it, and the level of data you need. Here's a simple breakdown to help you budget realistically and choose the right fit for your business.
What is Asset Tracking?
Asset tracking uses GPS, RFID or QR/barcode tech to monitor the location, usage and status of physical assets—like plant machinery, tools, trailers, or specialist vehicles. It gives you visibility and control, so you can cut downtime, reduce theft or loss, and make sure your assets are being used effectively.
Average Costs in the UK & Ireland
The price of asset tracking varies depending on several factors. Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect:
| Type of Tracking | Typical Monthly Cost per Asset | Hardware Cost (One-Off) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic GPS Tracker (Non-powered assets) | £4–£10 | £30–£60 |
| GPS + Sensor Data (e.g. temp, motion) | £8–£15 | £60–£100 |
| Hardwired Trackers (Powered assets/vehicles) | £10–£18 | £100–£200 |
| Advanced Telematics (Engine data, driver behaviour, usage reports) | £15–£25 | £150–£250 |
These prices are estimates, and can vary based on the provider, the features included, and the number of assets you’re tracking.
What Impacts the Cost?
A few key things influence the total cost:
1. Number of Assets
Most providers charge per unit, but discounts are common for bulk orders. If you’ve got 10 trailers or 200 small tools to track, you’ll likely get a better rate per item with scale.
2. Type of Equipment
Hardwired trackers for powered machinery tend to be more expensive than simple battery-powered trackers for trailers or containers.
3. Contract Length
Some companies lock you into 12, 24 or even 36-month contracts. At Transpoco, we understand the needs of public sector bodies, construction firms, and growing businesses can change quickly—that’s why we offer a flexible, no fixed-term contract option.
4. Software Features
Want alerts for unauthorised movement? Or need full integration with your fleet management system? The more features you add, the higher the monthly fee.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Be wary of low upfront pricing that’s followed by hidden extras. These may include:
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Installation fees
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SIM/data charges
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Software updates
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Early exit fees from long-term contracts
Always ask for a clear breakdown of what's included before you commit.
Is Asset Tracking Worth the Investment?
Absolutely. Here’s why:
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Tool and equipment theft costs the UK construction industry up to £800 million a year (Source: BFM).
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Irish businesses report around €10,000 average loss per theft incident, particularly with unattended sites and mobile plant.
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Real-time tracking can reduce asset downtime by up to 30%, improving job completion rates and avoiding delays.
Final Thoughts
So, how much should asset tracking cost? it’s worth shopping around. The right provider will offer flexible options, affordable pricing, and clear value for money.
Looking to cut losses, protect equipment, and simplify tracking across multiple sites? Speak to our team at Transpoco—we’ll help you find the most cost-effective solution for your sector, with no pressure or long-term tie-ins.
