GPS tracking provides precise real-time location data including street-level accuracy, unlike ELD location data which only shows approximate city/town proximity as required by FMCSA.
Understanding GPS accuracy helps you set the right expectations for your fleet visibility and respond appropriately when data seems off.
Street-Level Accuracy
Route One ELD's GPS tracking devices use standard civilian GPS with accuracy typically within 3–5 meters under open sky conditions. This means street-level location, precise enough to identify which lane a vehicle is in or which fuel pump they're at.
Factors That Affect Accuracy
Signal can be degraded in urban canyons (tall buildings), tunnels, dense forest, or bad weather. In these cases, the device uses historical data and dead reckoning to estimate position until signal is restored.
Update Frequency
Location updates every 30–60 seconds while the vehicle is moving. When the vehicle is stationary, updates slow to conserve data usage while still logging the parked location.
Compared to ELD Location
ELD location is approximate (nearest city/town) and only captured at specific events. GPS tracking is continuous and street-level. The two serve different purposes — ELD for compliance, GPS for operations. See what GPS fleet tracking includes.