Heliot Europe, a UK and European Sigfox operator and independent IoT network operator and solution provider, has partnered with G-Lok Systems to provide sub-gigahertz connectivity for its trailer and asset tracking solutions. These devices, in combination with Heliot’s Sigfox-OG network connectivity, enable the tracking of trailers across regional and international borders. G-Lok’s trailer tracking devices have found success in the transport industry, providing solutions not only for trailer tracking but also for other applications, including plant hire machinery and for smaller asset tracking.

G-Lok’s asset tracking solution was developed in response to the challenges faced by large transport companies in tracking their trailers effectively to prevent theft and improve supply chain transparency. In addition to this, these businesses encountered an array of issues from previous, existing power-intensive and unreliable telematics solutions; which lacked adequate coverage for trailers—especially when they passed between different transport companies and trucks during their journeys in traditional low-coverage areas.

G-Lok’s sophisticated solution uses Heliot’s robust Sigfox network, a low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) technology; which ensures reliable and efficient communication between the tracking devices and G-Lok’s central platform. The devices, equipped with internal batteries and solar panels, remove the need for a constant power source, making them ideal for long-term trailer tracking across vast geographical distances, and a reliable and cost-effective solution for those in the transport industry. Further, G-Lok’s technology can be used to enable transport and supply chain organisations to prove that they meet Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) compliance requirements.

Marco DaSilva, Managing Director, G-Lok says, “Heliot’s support in providing us this sub-gigahertz connectivity has been invaluable. Our technology, combined with its specialised network, allows us to offer a reliable, cost-effective solution to our customers across an array of applications, including fleet management, asset tracking, and geo-fencing.

“Our device is not only low-powered compared to alternatives, but is also self-sustaining. It features an internal battery and a solar panel, ensuring continuous operation even in remote locations. It is suitable for various assets, including plant hire machinery and large trailer fleets. It’s a versatile solution tailored to meet the diverse needs of different requirements within the industry, and it can support with proving TAPA compliance.

“Alongside our device, our customers can also benefit from our user-friendly dashboard, which allows them to see in near real time the exact locations of their trailers at different locations across the UK and Europe. This provides important visibility of which trailers are on or off the road at any given time, allowing them to forward plan the use of their trailers along with any scheduled maintenance, and better plan for any necessary routine trailer inspections, in compliance with industry standards.”

Heliot Europe is the exclusive operator of the global Sigfox 0G™ network in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, the UK, Denmark and Liechtenstein. This makes Heliot Europe the largest 0G™ network operator in Europe. With Sigfox 0G™ technology, Heliot Europe offers a cross-border, seamless, user-friendly, cost-effective and energy-efficient network and helps companies to further transform their business model towards digital services in areas such as asset tracking, asset monitoring and supply chain management. What is more, low-frequency radio technology is also a cost-effective alternative to the existing Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT and CAT-M).

Gareth Mitchell, UK Partner Manager, Heliot Europe says, “We are thrilled to partner with G-Lok to drive improvements in trailer tracking solutions and enhance supply chain efficiency for all parties concerned. As a connectivity provider, we understand the unique requirements of G-Lok and its customers and are dedicated to providing them with robust, ubiquitous connectivity solutions to enable seamless tracking and monitoring. We look forward to a continued partnership that drives advancements in the world of trailer and asset tracking and enhances the overall customer experience in the transport and supply chain industry and logistics industries.”