Geofencing

Geofencing places a virtual zone around a physical location such as a depot, collection address or delivery site. When a vehicle enters or leaves, a system can update a status, save a timestamp or send a notification.

How a geofence works

The location is defined as a circle or polygon. A telematics source sends current positions, which are compared with the boundary. A crossing creates an event that the TMS assigns to the right vehicle, order and stop.

Example: automatic arrival

A 250-metre zone surrounds a factory. Vehicle 12 enters at 08:53, so the stop changes to “arrived” and dispatch receives an update. It leaves at 09:17, giving a 24-minute dwell time. A signature or photo is still needed if the physical handover must be proved.

Useful applications

• automatic arrival and departure statuses
• updating an ETA after a stop
• alerts on depot or restricted-area entry
• analysis of recurring dwell time
• a customer notification shortly before delivery

Zones that are too small may flicker because of GPS variation; zones that are too large report arrival too early. Closely spaced docks, radio gaps and multi-storey sites also make matching harder. Operators should test zone sizes with real trips.

Geofencing automates status events but does not replace review by dispatch or a proper proof of delivery. Maxmove links events with the relevant route so their operational meaning remains visible.