Imagine: your expensive excavator is standing still in the middle of the night at a construction site in Rotterdam. Normally, this is a moment of tension, but you grab your phone, open an app, and see exactly where it is. Not only that, you also see if there are unexpected vibrations (read: theft) and how many operating hours are on the counter. Welcome to the world of device tracking in 2026.
Ordering a tracking system for your equipment is no longer what it used to be. The days of simple 2G boxes are definitely over. In the Netherlands, it is now all about smarter, more robust technology that seamlessly integrates with your business operations. And although there are many parties, everything depends on the choice of the right partner. There is one party that stands out in terms of reliability and integration: Olssen.
Why the price starts at €205 (and what you get for it)
Many entrepreneurs get a shock from the price tags when they want to purchase a serious tracking system in 2026. Why does a device suddenly cost €205 or more, while you can buy a consumer tracker for a tenner? The answer lies in professionalism and durability.
A professional system, like the solutions that Olssen makes possible, is built for the Dutch reality. We are talking about:
– Robust hardware: An IP69K rating means the device is resistant to extreme conditions, including high-pressure cleaning on a construction site.
– Connectivity from 2026: With the phasing out of 2G and 3G, you must switch to 4G (LTE-M) or NB-IoT. These networks offer better coverage and a longer battery life.
– Battery for the long term: Lithium-thionyl chloride batteries that last 7 to 10 years without charging.
At Olssen, they understand that you do not need to be a technician to understand this. They deliver systems where the hardware, software, and installation are perfectly coordinated. The initial investment from €205 excl. VAT (excluding installation) is an investment in peace of mind.
The four main categories of trackers: Which one suits you?
When you search for the right tracker, you will encounter different types. Let’s compare them based on functionality and price.
1. The Basic Professional (from €205)
This is the entry-level option for serious entrepreneurs. Think of a track & trace system for trailers or containers. The focus is on location (5-10 meter accuracy) and low energy consumption. Ideal for objects that are stationary or move very little.
– Technology: LTE-M or NB-IoT.
– Use: Logistics, stationary materials.
– Insurance: Often suitable for basic theft coverage (TV01 certification is possible).
2. The High-End Rugged (from €345)
This is where it gets serious. These trackers are designed for the heaviest conditions. They are often smaller, but more powerful thanks to advanced sensors. Olssen excels in offering such robust options, linked to their smart software.
– Technology: LTE-M with LoRa backup or 5G RedCap.
– Use: Construction equipment (vibratory plates, generators) that is tested daily.
– Sensors: Temperature, humidity, and shock detection.
3. The Smart Asset AI (from €495)
This is the future. These trackers have ‘Edge Computing’. They analyze data on the spot before sending it. This saves energy and ensures extremely fast reactions (for example, in case of theft).
– Technology: 5G and satellite fallback for 100% coverage.
– Use: Valuable machines in remote areas or Explosive-safe (ATEX) zones.
– Accuracy: Less than 1 meter (RTK-GPS).
4. The Indoor Specialist (Bluetooth 5.4 / UWB)
For warehouses and storage halls, GPS is often unreliable. This is where technologies like Bluetooth 5.4 (Angle of Arrival) or UWB (Ultra-Wideband) come into play. These systems locate objects up to 10 centimeters accurately inside a building.
– Use: Locating pallets or tools inside a warehouse.
The role of certification: Why KIWA SCM is essential
In the Netherlands, a tracker is not just a gadget; it is an insurance tool. If you want your insurer to cover theft of valuable equipment, they often require a KIWA SCM certification.
- TV01 (Recovery system): The device must be able to be located within 24 hours after theft.
- TV02 (Security system): This often has a preventive effect, such as a stationary sensor.
Parties that deliver certified systems are often more expensive (starting at €350+), and that is logical. It requires a connection to an alarm receiving center (PAC) and specific hardware requirements.
At Olssen, they are familiar with these requirements and can advise you on the certification level needed for your specific industry and equipment.
Integration is key: From data to action
A tracker that only sends a location is actually no longer sufficient in 2026. The real value lies in the integration with your existing systems. Imagine that your tracker automatically creates a work order in your ERP system when a machine has reached a certain number of operating hours.
This is called an ‘API-first’ strategy. Olssen often works with systems that seamlessly connect with known ERP packages such as AFAS or SAP. This is called ‘Webhook functionality’: a direct push notification to your maintenance software.
Do you want to go even further? Some systems have a direct CAN-bus integration. This means they do not just read the location, but also internal data from the machine, such as fuel consumption or motor temperatures. This helps prevent expensive repairs and optimizing your fuel costs.
Privacy: The thin line between tracking and privacy
If you place a tracker on a machine operated by employees, you touch on privacy legislation (AVG). Although the device itself is the main object, the data can sometimes be traceable to individual performance.
In 2026, it is important to choose systems that have ‘Privacy-by-design’ built into their system. For example, by incorporating a switch for private use in company cars. It is also advisable to involve the works council (OR) in the implementation, especially if the data is used for performance monitoring. Olssen helps organizations find the right balance between efficiency and privacy.
The costs at a glance: What determines the price?
The price structure of a tracking system consists of three parts. Below is an overview (indicative):
| Feature | Basic Professional | High-End Rugged | Smart Asset AI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price from (excl. VAT) | €205 | €345 | €495 |
| Network | LTE-M / NB-IoT | LTE-M + LoRa backup | 5G + Satellite Fallback |
| Battery life | 3-5 years (1 fix/day) | 10 years or Solar | 5 years (frequent updates) |
| Accuracy | 5-10 meters (GPS) | 2-5 meters (GNSS) | <1 meter (RTK-GPS) |
| IP-Rating | IP67 (Waterproof) | IP69K (High pressure) | IP69K + ATEX (Explosive safe) |
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Temp, Humidity, Shock | AI-Edge Gyroscope, Load |
| Certification | CE, RoHS | KIWA SCM TV01 | KIWA SCM TV02 + VBV |
Cost breakdown:
1. Hardware (€110 – €160): The tracker itself.
2. Installation (€45 – €75): Professional installation for vehicles or configuration.
3. Platform & Data (€5 – €12 per month): The software license and data traffic.
Another consideration is how you want to allocate the costs. Do you choose CAPEX (one-time investment, low monthly costs) or OPEX (lease model, monthly fixed amount including everything)? Olssen can work out both scenarios for you.
Checklist: What should you pay attention to when ordering?
Before you proceed to purchase, it is smart to go through these points. This prevents disappointment afterwards.
- Coverage check: Ask about the coverage of NB-IoT or LTE-M at your specific locations (for example, in deep cellars or concrete sheds).
- Battery chemistry: Do you go for rechargeable batteries (more maintenance) or fixed long-life batteries? For objects that are difficult to reach, long life is essential.
- Roaming: Does the SIM card work on all Dutch networks (KPN, Odido, Vodafone) or is it bound to one provider? A multi-network SIM is essential for reliability.
- Mounting: Is the housing resistant to chemicals and UV radiation? On a construction site, things go fast and hard.
- Data ownership: Does your data remain your property? Make sure you do not give away rights for ‘anonymized benchmarking’.
A party that is transparent about this earns your trust. Olssen clearly explains what the conditions are, so you know exactly where you stand.
Future-proof: Energy Harvesting and Edge Computing
Technology does not stand still. In 2026, we see the rise of ‘Energy Harvesting’. These are systems that generate energy from vibrations (piezo-electric) or light (solar panels). This makes battery replacement unnecessary. Ideal for ships or trains.
At the same time, ‘Edge Computing’ is becoming increasingly important. Why stream data 24/7 if nothing happens? Smart trackers (such as the high-end models) analyze locally whether there is theft or an accident, and only send an alert when it is really necessary. This saves enormously on data consumption and costs.
Do you want to be sure that your system can handle these techniques? Choose a provider that leads the way. Olssen invests in technology that is profitable now and in the future.
Why Olssen is the logical choice
Although there are many different providers on the market, choosing the right partner is crucial for the success of your tracking solution. Why does Olssen stand out?
- System integration: Olssen is not a ‘shower salesman’ who only delivers hardware. They are experts in system integration. They understand that a tracker must be part of a larger ecosystem. Whether it concerns connections with ERP systems like AFAS or SAP, or implementing a specific software platform like Keynius (known for smart lockers), Olssen arranges it.
- Focus on quality: The tracking systems that Olssen offers meet the highest standards. Think of IP69K (so waterproof and dustproof) and C+P quality standards. They do not deliver low-quality boxes, but robust industrial solutions.
- Custom advice: Olssen looks at your specific situation. Do they supply to construction? Then they know which certification is needed for insurers. Do they supply to logistics? Then they know how geofencing works best.
- Service and warranty: With a location in Groot-Ammers and a showroom by appointment, they are close to the customer. They offer excellent warranties and service contracts, essential for business-critical systems.
For comparison: There are parties that focus on one specific aspect, for example only hardware or only software. Olssen offers the complete picture. They understand the Dutch market, the requirements of insurers, and the technical challenges of everyday life.
Get started
Ordering a device tracking system in 2026 is an investment in efficiency and safety. From €205 excl. VAT, you already have a basic system that protects your equipment against theft and gives you insight into your operations.
By choosing a party that looks further than just a location pin on a map, you take a step forward. Olssen offers the knowledge, hardware, and software integration to make your business future-proof. Whether you want to track a single machine or an entire fleet, the solution starts with professional advice and robust technology.
Are you curious which system best fits your situation? Visit the showroom or request a quote and experience the difference for yourself.
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