2026 Device Buyer's Guide
A practical guide to choosing the right smart labels, GPS trackers and Bluetooth tags for your shipment visibility programme.
Choosing the right device for the job.
Not every shipment needs the same sensor. This guide breaks down the most common device categories, when to use them, and what to watch out for.
- Match device capability to journey risk
- Factor in total cost of ownership
- Plan for data integration from day one
- Consider battery life vs. recharge cycles
- Evaluate disposal and sustainability
- Test with a pilot before scaling
Smart labels, trackers and tags.
Smart Labels
Thin, flexible labels
Best for high-volume parcels and cartons. Lightweight, disposable, and cost-effective for one-way journeys.
Reusable smart labels
Higher upfront cost, lower cost-per-journey. Ideal for closed-loop logistics and returnable packaging.
GPS Trackers
Compact asset trackers
Small enough for parcels, robust enough for pallets. Real-time location with multi-year battery life.
Hardwired fleet trackers
Installed in vehicles for continuous power and real-time fleet visibility. Best for trucks, vans and reefers.
Bluetooth Tags
BLE beacons
Low-cost proximity tracking for warehouse, yard and in-transit monitoring. Works with smartphones and gateways.
Hybrid BLE/GPS tags
Combine Bluetooth proximity with GPS when outdoors. Best for multi-modal journeys with handoffs.
Six questions to ask before buying.
- 1
What are you tracking?
Parcels need thin labels. Pallets need GPS. Equipment in a yard may only need BLE proximity.
- 2
How long is the journey?
Cross-border trips need long battery life or rechargeable devices. Last-mile may be fine with disposable labels.
- 3
What conditions matter?
Temperature, shock, tilt and light exposure sensors vary by device. Match the sensor set to your risk profile.
- 4
Who needs the data?
End customers, operations teams and compliance officers may each need different views of the same journey.
- 5
How will you integrate?
API-first platforms make it easier to pull data into your WMS, TMS or ERP without custom development.
- 6
What is the real cost?
Include hardware, data plans, platform fees, installation and disposal. A reusable device often wins on TCO.
Need help choosing devices?
Our team can recommend the right mix of smart labels, trackers and tags for your shipments.