Construction sites, whether small or large, are easy targets for theft. Every day, expensive equipment such as construction machinery, tools, and materials go missing. And every year, this results in significant financial losses for construction companies. In this context, construction GPS trackers prove to be one of the most effective solutions to protect assets and monitor equipment.
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The Extent of Thefts on Construction Sites #
In the United States, construction site theft is a significant issue, with annual losses from equipment theft alone estimated between $300 million and $1 billion according to Neuroject. The recovery rate for stolen construction equipment remains low, often under 20%. Organized crime groups also target construction assets, adding complexity to theft prevention efforts.
This phenomenon is not limited to the US, as in Europe, it is estimated that nearly 6,000 construction machines are stolen each year. And just like in the US, the recovery rate is under 20%. This means that the majority of stolen equipment is never recovered, leading to considerable financial losses for companies.
Small businesses are not spared by this scourge, and the cost of replacing stolen tools can represent a significant part of their budget. For larger structures, theft of heavy machinery such as excavators and cranes leads to project delays and increased insurance premiums. These thefts have a direct impact on the profitability and continuity of construction sites.
Types of Thefts on Construction Sites #
On construction sites, two types of thefts are the most common. On one hand, there is the theft of small equipment such as generators, electrical cables, or portable tools. These items are often left on-site overnight or on weekends, making them easy targets for thieves.
On the other hand, there is the theft of heavy machinery, such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes. These machines, due to their high value, are particularly sought after by criminals, and it is often difficult to recover them once stolen.
In addition to physical thefts, unauthorized individuals sometimes enter restricted areas to access sensitive equipment. This poses a threat not only to the security of the assets but also to the safety of the workers present on the site.
Construction Tracker: Why Use One? #
In this context, more and more companies are turning to the use of construction trackers to protect their equipment. These devices offer a range of practical advantages:
- Real-time location: Trackers allow you to know at any time where a machine or equipment is located.
- Theft prevention: The mere presence of a tracker often deters thieves, knowing that the equipment is being monitored.
- Quick recovery: In case of theft, the tracker allows for the quick location of the equipment and facilitates its return.
- Monitoring movements: It is possible to monitor the movements of machinery to detect use outside of authorized hours.
- Productivity optimization: The data collected by the trackers help to better organize the site and avoid time losses.
How Do GPS Trackers Work for Construction Sites? #
A construction tracker generally uses advanced technologies such as GPS or low-power networks to provide wide and stable coverage. At Invoxia, our GPS tracker for SMEs and construction companies uses the LoRa network to communicate its positions.
This construction tracker can be installed on a variety of equipment, ranging from small tools to heavy machinery, and is designed to withstand the harsh conditions on construction sites. Once the tracker is in place, it is possible to track the equipment’s location using the Invoxia mobile app or our online platform.
Companies can also set up automatic alerts in case of suspicious movement or exit from a defined area. This allows them to react quickly in case of theft or unauthorized use.
Invoxia Construction Tracker: Adopted by Major Construction Companies! #
At Invoxia, we provide our GPS protection and tracking systems to many companies across various sectors. On construction sites, companies like Vinci or Colas use our construction trackers to keep an eye on their equipment and machinery.
In case of a theft attempt, individuals with access to the Invoxia Hub are alerted and can act accordingly. If the attempt is successful for the thieves, it is then sufficient to track the position to recover the stolen equipment or machinery.
The Benefits of Construction Trackers for Construction Companies #
Using GPS trackers on a construction site offers numerous advantages for companies in the building sector:
- Reduction in insurance costs: Many insurance companies offer discounts to businesses that use trackers to monitor their equipment, due to the reduced risk of theft.
- Better equipment management: Trackers allow for real-time monitoring of equipment usage, which helps optimize resource planning and reduce downtime.
- Improved safety: By limiting access to unauthorized equipment and monitoring movements, GPS trackers contribute to enhancing overall safety on construction sites.
Choosing the Right Construction Tracker #
There are many models of construction trackers on the market, and each company must choose one that meets its specific needs. Here are some important criteria to consider when purchasing a tracker:
- Battery life: It is essential to choose a tracker with a long enough battery life to operate for several months or even years without recharging. At Invoxia, our GPS tracker for construction sites offers up to 5 years of battery life.
- Robustness: Trackers must be able to withstand outdoor conditions and the challenging environments of construction sites. The Invoxia GPS tracker for professionals is specifically designed to meet the needs of industrial and construction sites.
- Ease of installation: Opt for a model that is simple to install, without requiring specific technical skills. With Invoxia’s construction tracker, setting up and connecting your tracker takes just a few minutes.
- Ease of use: Choosing an easy-to-use construction tracker is essential. Ideally, you should be able to access the tracker’s data via a smartphone app and through a computer interface, especially when the number of installed trackers is significant.
Thefts on construction sites pose a real threat to construction companies, but the use of GPS trackers allows for effective countermeasures against this scourge. In addition to providing a location solution, these devices contribute to theft prevention, quick recovery of equipment, and better resource management on the site.