GPS tracking device for theft

**Tony_in_AZ** · 05-09-2023, 07:25 AM

Has any body installed a GPS tracking device on your trailer just in case it is stolen?

There seems to be a wide range of items used from Apple tags to self contained device with cell service.

If the question comes up: yes our stuff is insured. I have hitch locks on both our trailers as they sit in a large RV storage lot.

30 yrs ago , a neighbor had a travel trailer that he chained to the wall of his garage. The chain actually ran thru the wall , around wall studs. I told him that seemed like a bad idea if the thief hooked up and drove off fast

**Hoopy Frood** · 05-09-2023, 07:52 AM

Don't most of those GPS trackers come with a service charge/monthly fee?

**Gronk1** · 05-09-2023, 09:46 AM

My DW has air tags for her cats & one for the dog, not sure I would want one for our trailer. Probably wouldn't want the it back after it is trashed.

**Hoopy Frood** · 05-09-2023, 10:04 AM

It might be a good idea if it would alert you if the trailer is moved, and you might be able to prevent it being stolen, or aid in recovering it before they have the chance to trash it. But have no desire to pay a monthly/yearly service fee, like Lojack or the like.

**sande005** · 05-09-2023, 11:13 AM

Also, I believe AirTags, to send their location, need to be near a phone. And Apple alerts the phone user that an Airtag is nearby. So the thieves would know...
This gets into a murky area, as while very useful for tracking wayward stuff, all too easy to use for tracking/stalking a person. Lots of legislation (and companies trying to avoid liability lawsuits) scrambling over the issue.

**A.Texas.Yankee** · 05-09-2023, 01:55 PM

What's your budget? There are a few cellular based options out there, none cheap.

Samsung and Apple both have tags that require NFC or UWB pings off a nearby cellphone. It does work pretty well, but wouldn't use for my trailer. You don't happen to have a Victron Multiplus by chance?

**Tony_in_AZ** · 05-11-2023, 07:33 AM

Thanks... Yeah budget is a subject on GPS trackers. I guess its like insurance. You pay the premium and hope you never have problems?

I bought a dash camera "just in case" something happens as I pull the 5th wheel?

After a motorcycle crash in 2013 where a drunk driver pulled out in front of me. I bought another Goldwing motorcycle with an airbag on it. Hoping to never see the airbag in use.

Lots of options out there for GPS tracker. I will keep looking and reading.

I have Family members that worked for Arizona Motor Vehicle dept in the enforcement div.. I never knew there were so many thefts of large trucks , semi trailers and various construction equipment.

**A.Texas.Yankee** · 05-11-2023, 07:51 AM

The largest issue with GPS tablets is battery supply. Many have a few days, but that's about it. Best set up is attached to car battery with battery backup, but you have to hide it very well.

Theft is very bad every where.

**Kevin2282** · 05-11-2023, 08:24 AM

This is not a perfect solution, but if it makes a thief think twice and move on to an easier target then it works.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Kevin