The Advantages of QR Tags vs GPS Trackers

Published on June 15, 2022 • 3 min read

Here at itemit, we supply asset tracking software that works with QR Tags to help companies track their assets. However, it’s not always clear why using tags such as these can be better than GPS trackers. It’s often assumed that the tags we attach to assets work in the same way as GPS trackers and vice versa. However, this is not the case at all.

QR Tags and The Advantages of Using Them

When QR Tags are used, they allow companies to create a clearer and faster overview of their assets. Users physically stick the tags to the assets and track them once they’re linked with the assets. The link is created by using itemit’s asset tracking software. Every time the asset’s tag is scanned, users will receive a complete audit trail and any updated information. 

Additionally, those who wish to track the assets can do so by logging into itemit’s system. The software will show the user the asset’s last-known location from when the asset tag was last scanned. It’s this feature that can help users to retrieve lost or stolen itemits. Alternatively, users can simply see whether the asset has reached its location and been checked in.

QR Tags are ideal for use with assets of all shapes and sizes. From tools to machinery, equipment, to hardware, tags can be attached to almost everything. Especially as they are small in size and can be discretely attached to any asset.

itemit’s tags can also help users to find out an array of information. When scanning the tags, users will be shown a range of menus. These menus allow users to input information such as the asset’s:

• Guarantee details
• Warranty details 
• Maintenance history
• User details 
• Longevity
• Current condition
• Cost at purchase
• Estimated current value
• Potential resale value 
• Last-known location
• Photographs
• Comments that other users have left 
• Questions that other users have left

And so much more. What this information means is that users have quick and easy access to the asset’s details at the touch of a button. Not only can this feature save time, but it can also help users to understand more about each asset and the company’s current value.

QR Tag Disadvantages

One of the disadvantages of attaching a QR tag to an asset is the level of wear and tear. After a while, some tags may start to deteriorate. A tag may become damaged or torn, no matter how well they are looked after. 

This disadvantage can be remedied by replacing the worn QR tag with better quality tags that are durable, and more reliable. Luckily itemit's tags are high quality and have a strong adhesive back, limiting the liklihood of damage and tear to the tag. Users simply have to update itemit’s software so that it knows which tag the asset is working with when you change the QR.

Although QR tags are great for helping to locate an asset, they are unable to give a live updated location since the technology just hasn't been created. Many believe QR tags will be able to update as and when an asset moves, but unfortunately this isn't the case. To recieve a last seen location QR tags need that intital manual interaction via being scanned on the itemit app. An alternative to ensure you do get live location updates would be to use GPS trackers, however they are very bulky and not suited to smaller assets such as IT assets and tools.

GPS Trackers and the Advantages of Using Them

GPS trackers work in such a way that there is no need to manually check the asset’s location. Users can automatically see where their assets are at all times. They are especially great for tracking vehicles on the move, and with itemit you can use the purpose built map to see a record of the journey a vehicle takes as long as it has a GPS tracker connected to it. 

Users may also be able to see a history of the asset’s location. This can help users to understand whether an asset has been taken to particular sites and used there.

GPS Tracker Disadvantages

Unfortunately, a GPS tracker’s longevity is not always very good. Typically used with large long-life batteries or small short-life batteries, they can only last so long. Ideally, a GPS tracker will be attached to a vehicle, for example, that can charge the tracker. However, this is not always as easy as it seems. 

Another disadvantage involves pinpointing exactly where assets are. This is due to GPS updates being entirely address-based. Users can refer to the tracker’s coordinates, however, these coordinates may correspond to a specific address. This can make tracking the assets quite difficult. 

QR Tags Vs GPS Trackers: Which is the Best?

QR Tags can help companies everywhere to track all of their assets. They don’t just locate every asset, they can also help companies to gain access to useful information. Clicking on an asset using itemit’s menus can bring up information such as the latest maintenance schedule, warranty details, and much more. 

Additionally, users can track their assets via a desktop or mobile device. This ensures that users can track assets no matter where they are. 

While GPS trackers supply updated location information relatively easily, this is all that they offer. GPS trackers have one function and one function only. It has to be said then, that QR Tags are far superior to GPS trackers. Users can locate every asset and gather an abundance of information about the assets every time.

Make Use of itemit’s QR Tags

Make use of itemit’s QR Tags and all that they have to offer. Track all of your assets with ease, and have easy access to the asset’s warranty, maintenance, subscription information and so much more. Contact itemit’s helpful team today at team@itemit.com to find out how well our QR Tags can work for you. Alternatively, you could opt for our 14-day Free Trial so that you too can understand just how well itemit works for you.