By James Neely

Spring planting season is here. And, with it comes the added tasks of maintaining and watching over your expensive, heavy farm machinery. If your equipment is stolen it can mean the difference between making a profit and losing money. The reason is that in farming, time is money. And, even if the equipment is insured, the loss of hours that the equipment could have been in used is irreplaceable. This brings up the question as to what you can use in the tracking of your equipment. A GPS Tracking system is the answer and here is why.

Most modern farms are already using GPS technology to help in the planting and growing operations which can give them an edge in maintaining profitability. But, what about farms that do not plant crops for profit? GPS Tracking is perfect for these operations as well. Installation of one of these devices gives pinpoint accuracy to within a few feet of where your equipment is located. This is invaluable information for authorities should your equipment become target of thieves. Almost instant recovery is possible.

The sad truth is that when something is stolen, the agencies whose responsibility it is to recover these items are so overwhelmed with other cases that unless there is instant evidence to the whereabouts of your property, it can take days, weeks or even months to recover the item. Then, what of your operations? How will you deal with the loss?

Know Where Your Equipment is Located. The beauty of these GPS tracking systems is that they do not have to be connected to a power source to send out a signal. You can still track them with incredible accuracy with software that you install and use on your PC.

Real-time or Demand-only Systems. Making the choice of a system that gives you real-time and instant data or just supplying you with information when you need it is tailor-made for your farm. Knowing where your equipment is at all times provides peace-of-mind. You have more important things about which you need to concern yourself.

Insurance Costs are Reduced. The ability to be able to keep your equipment secured will result in lower premiums on your insurance policies. This helps both the insurance company and your operations achieve a higher rate of profitability.

Which of the above is of most benefit to you as a modern farmer? Or is it equally important in maintaining a smoothly running farm in today’s world? You make the call – you will be glad you did.