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Understanding the Use of SIM Cards for GPS Trackers

PUBLISHED

September 17, 2025

READING TIME

Key Takeaways:

M2M SIM card is specially designed for GPS tracker with longer durability and more stable connection than regular SIM.
Cartrack's M2M SIM supports multi-operators so the tracker stays connected even if one operator's signal is weak.
M2M SIM data charges are included in the Cartrack subscription package so there are no additional charges.

Many people may not realise that GPS trackers are closely linked to the use of a SIM card. Without this card, you may not be able to track your vehicle in real time, even if its location is known to satellites.

This time, we'll discuss SIM cards for GPS trackers, which are crucial for vehicle tracking. How are they different from the cards we typically use in smartphones, and how do they work?

Why Does a GPS Tracker Need a SIM Card?

Before discussing further, we need to know first how GPS tracking devices work.

To determine a vehicle's location, at least five satellites must transmit signals that reach the vehicle's location. These signals are then received by the tracker, which can then determine the vehicle's position.

To allow you to access the data online, the tracking device uses an internet network to transmit data to the server. The data from the server can then be accessed in real-time via a Fleet Management System monitoring platform or dashboard.

See Also: What is a GPS Tracker? Read on to learn more!

SIM Card for GPS Tracker

So, is the card used the same as the one we use in a smartphone? The answer is no. The card for a GPS is a specialised SIM designed for Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine-to-Machine (M2M) requirements.

Unlike smartphone SIM cards, which are used for human communication, SIM cards for GPS trackers focus on machine-to-machine communication. These cards allow devices to perform automation without human intervention.

For example, with GPS tracking, a SIM card allows the tracking device to automatically send data to a server. This allows location data to be tracked and settings such as notifications to be sent automatically.

Is the SIM Card for the GPS Tracker Sold Separately?

Purchasing a GPS tracker device doesn't always come with a data plan or credit to send data to the server. Often, you'll need to purchase a separate SIM card for the GPS and manually pair it with the device.

Some GPS tracking device providers offer free SIM cards and credit for a limited period. After that, you'll need to top up your SIM card yourself and ensure it's always active and has credit or data available.

Challenges of Managing SIM Cards and Credit

When purchasing a tracking device without a card and data plan, many people try using a regular SIM card. This option may seem cheaper at first glance, but it actually has its own drawbacks, such as:

Quota or credit runs out without you realizing it: The card must always be topped up so that GPS location data can still be accessed remotely.
Signal constraints: Signal quality for use may differ from the signal quality on a regular SIM card.
Administrative burden: With cards that are not automatically always active, your team will need to manually check for active periods, balances, and quotas.
Unpredictable costs: Using data plans that are not specifically designed for IoT needs will make expenses more unpredictable.

Also Read: Best Car GPS from Cartrack

Cartrack GPS Tracker Subscription Free Internet Quota

Cartrack offers a different solution for GPS trackers: a subscription rental system that includes internet data. You don't have to worry about topping up your phone credit or data plan, as it's included in the subscription.

You'll also receive the tracking device without any additional costs. Furthermore, Cartrack provides free installation by our technicians.

With every subscription package purchase, you'll also receive software training from the Cartrack Trainer team. This training can be online or offline, depending on agreement and availability.

Other fleet management solutions from Cartrack that you can also add to your subscription package include:

Fuel Monitoring: Monitoring vehicle fuel using a fuel floater sensor, fuel probe, or CANBus.
AI & Non-AI Camera: Visual monitoring of drivers and fleets that allows you to live-stream video from cameras during the trip.
Delivery: Delivery management solutions, from scheduling, courier/driver assignments, to progress tracking.
Mi-Fleet: Expense management software that makes it easy for you to document expenses for various needs.
Maintenance: Simplify scheduling routine maintenance and receive instant reports from drivers about accidents and repair needs.
CarPool: Vehicle booking management that allows you to schedule the use of each vehicle.
Driver Scorecard: A system that scores drivers based on their driving behavior so you can identify drivers who need training.

For those of you who would like to find out more about fleet management solutions from Cartrack, please complete your details in the following form. Our staff will then contact you to provide an overview and the best quote for your requirements.

Also Read: Recommendations for the Best GPS Applications for Trucks

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What card does the GPS tracker use?

SIM cards for GPS trackers use specialised IoT or M2M cards, which are better suited for sending data to a server. You can use a regular SIM card from a local carrier, but this can lead to issues like data usage running out and unstable signal for real-time tracking. The best solution is to use a GPS tracker that comes with a SIM card and data plan, such as those offered by Cartrack.

Does the GPS tracker need to be connected to the internet?

Yes, the tracking device requires an internet connection so that location data can be sent in real time to the server and accessed on the monitoring platform. Without an internet connection, the GPS only receives satellite signals but cannot be tracked by the user.

How does GPS work without the internet?

GPS can still operate without internet because the device can still pick up satellite signals to determine its position. This is why navigation apps on smartphones can still be used even without a network.

However, with GPS trackers, a lack of network connectivity will result in a loss of access to remote tracking. This is because the tracking device cannot transmit data to the server, resulting in no data being displayed on the monitoring platform.