GPS Tracker Worldwide Guide: International Tracking

Getting the most out of global GPS technology

Key Takeaways:

• GPS tracking operates globally via satellite signals, utilizing the global positioning system, while reporting relies on local cellular networks.
• International GPS tracking is ideal for monitoring vehicles, fleets, or assets, even across borders.
• Different regions may have varying cellular standards, so updating the GPS device plan is crucial.
• For international shipping, satellite GPS trackers like Sat Track Micro offer real-time updates even in remote areas.
• GPS tracking improves safety, efficiency, and can potentially offer insurance benefits for vehicles and fleets.

GPS has become such an integral part of our lives now that we often forget that the technology was first introduced for military use only. Since it evolved beyond military use, GPS tracking technology has been integrated into many everyday consumer and business products. The main use for GPS is tracking people, vehicles, or assets accurately, in real time. GPS tracking devices sold in the US may be configured to work domestically or internationally. You can learn more about International and Worldwide GPS Devices here.

How Does GPS Work Internationally?

GPS works the same no matter where you are, using Global Positioning Satellites to triangulate the position of the GPS tracking device and determine its exact location. Accurate location data is crucial for determining the exact position of the GPS tracking device. The difference between domestic and international tracking is not the tracking itself, which involves satellites, but the reporting, which utilizes cellular signals.

Cellular service providers maintain their own networks across the world just like they do in the United States. GSM has become the standard, but not all networks are equal and different providers have different agreements as to who they will provide service to. Some countries’ providers have retired older cellular networks, while others haven’t yet deployed the latest generation. It’s important to know if the GPS tracker you purchase is capable of working internationally and to check what countries it will work in before deploying it. Depending on where you’re traveling with your international GPS tracker, you’ll need to update your plan to ensure that it has been made compatible with all of your destination countries.

Tracking Vehicles with Worldwide GPS Coverage

Safety is the primary goal of GPS devices. One of the most common and valuable uses for international tracking is personal car tracking using car GPS trackers. An example of when this could be useful, your teenager takes the family car across the Canadian border for a weekend trip. International GPS allows you to monitor where the vehicle has been, where it’s going, and how fast it’s traveling in real time. You can even get a text or email alerts if the vehicle exceeds any speed you’ve selected in advance. One of our best-selling GPS tracking devices, the Spark Nano International GPS Tracker, conveniently has a battery life of up to 6 months. Other devices, like TrackPort International, can be plugged directly into a vehicle, getting power from the car instead of requiring an external power source.

Fleet Management: Monitoring a Fleet of Vehicles

When you run an international business, fleet management becomes crucial as you’re constantly moving business vehicles and assets among warehouses, stores, and out to customers. Tracking vehicles with GPS trackers allows you to monitor your drivers in real time from anywhere in the world as they travel between and within different countries. Placing international GPS trackers on your fleet increases your control over your assets and allows you to monitor your drivers in real time from anywhere in the world as they travel between and within different countries. GPS empowers you to pinpoint lost or stolen vehicles and improve productivity on the road by reducing fuel costs and drive times (This is achieved through choosing alternative roads during heavy traffic periods, for example). In many cases, GPS-equipped vehicles qualify for some insurance discounts as well.

Shipping and Asset Applications Using GPS Technology

International GPS tracking is ideal for business shipping. Can GPS trackers provide real-time updates and are suitable for tracking diverse assets like vehicles, shipping containers, and personal items across borders. If you use large containers for cargo shipping, GPS trackers can be easily positioned on the outside of the container allowing you to track its whereabouts as it moves through the shipment process.

The process for tracking your assets will depend on how they are being shipped. For example, boats or cargo crates that are traveling over the ocean will need pure satellite trackers because cellular

service to report locations will not be available there. If your cargo container is traveling in open waters, it is always important to ensure that the satellite tracking device has a view of the sky. Some satellite trackers, such as the SatTrack Micro GPS World Tracker, uses the same GPS tracking platform as other BrickHouse Security

GPS devices, allowing you to log on and view locations and movements of your trackers. These devices can be set to send a number of “pings” per day to keep you informed about your asset’s location, using communication with satellites to report that information back to your app. Because these devices vary in features and capabilities, we recommend contacting the BrickHouse tracking Security experts with questions about which GPS or satellite tracking device will be best for your needs.

No matter where in the world you are, international GPS tracking devices are powerful tools that allow you to monitor the safety and whereabouts of family, business assets, and possessions.

FAQ

1. Can GPS trackers work anywhere in the world?

Yes—most GPS trackers with worldwide coverage can operate globally, as long as they can connect to GPS satellites and transmit data via cellular networks or satellite signals. The global positioning system (GPS) itself works anywhere on Earth. What matters most is your tracker’s ability to send that location data back to you, which often depends on local cellular coverage or satellite options.

2. What’s the difference between basic location tracking and real time GPS tracking?

Basic location tracking gives you periodic updates—think of it like a snapshot. Real time GPS tracking, on the other hand, delivers instant alerts, allowing you to monitor a tracker's location as it moves. This is essential for fleet management, personal safety, and tracking vehicles in motion.

3. How can I extend battery life on my GPS tracking device?

Great question—battery life depends on how frequently your device reports its location. To extend battery life:

• Use motion-activated tracking

• Set location updates at longer intervals

• Turn on sleep mode for periods of inactivity

• Choose advanced models with long battery life or rechargeable batteries

4. How do GPS tracking devices get accurate location data?

They rely on multiple satellites orbiting Earth to triangulate the exact location of a GPS receiver. This allows for accurate location tracking, especially with a clear view of the sky. Many GPS devices also use cellular signals, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth trackers for added accuracy in challenging environments.

5. What types of GPS trackers are best for asset tracking?

For asset tracking, especially high-value or remote items, look for:

• Compact devices with global tracking capabilities

• Satellite trackers for off-grid areas

• Vehicle GPS trackers with reliable tracking

• Options that can store data when out of range, then upload once signal returns

6. Can GPS trackers be used with Google Maps?

Absolutely. Most personal GPS trackers and car GPS trackers pair with a smartphone app or web dashboard that integrates with Google Maps. This allows you to see a real-time pin drop of the tracker’s location and even replay travel history.

7. What features should I look for in a personal GPS tracker for safety?

If you're looking for personal safety, especially for kids, seniors, or solo travelers, here are key features to look for:

• Real time location tracking

• Push notifications and speed alerts

• Virtual boundaries (geofences)

• Emergency SOS button to alert emergency services

• Compact, wearable design

• Good battery life

8. Why do fleet managers rely on GPS technology?

Fleet managers use real time tracking to improve logistics, monitor driver behavior, and ensure accurate tracking of deliveries. Fleet management solutions include:

• Live location tracking

• Route history

• Speed and idle time monitoring

• Maintenance alerts

• Custom reports—all powered by GPS technology

9. What happens if there’s no cellular coverage?

Some GPS tracking devices use satellite tracking to stay connected even where cellular signals drop off. Others can store data locally and upload it when back in range. For true global tracking capabilities, look into a satellite tracker or advanced models that switch between cellular networks and satellites.

10. Can GPS trackers be used for fitness and sleep tracking?

While dedicated fitness tracking devices or smartwatches do that best, some GPS trackers offer basic health features like:

• Sleep tracking

• Step counts

• Distance traveled

That said, if real time tracking capabilities and accurate location tracking are your top priorities, go for a personal GPS tracker and pair it with a fitness device for health data.