Heavy Construction Equipment: Repair, Troubleshooting and Maintenance

What Every Contractor Should Know about GPS Systems and Earthmoving

30 March 2015 by Clifton Barnes

As a manager of an earthmoving contracting company you have probably looked at different ways to give you better results on the site. One of the methods that may have come up in conversation or research is using GPS systems and devices. If you are considering using GPS systems, devices, and controls then there are a few key points you should consider.

Increased Control On the Site

When you use GPS devices, software, and systems for earthmoving you are giving yourself increased control on the site. The GPS system can be implemented to not only work with the machines to increase efficiency, but also grade control. The grade control aspect allows the GPS system to work with the surveyors. This means that 90% of the stakes are no longer in the ground to mark the earthmoving teams different soil grade points. They are not integrated into the software to be used by the machine operators and the construction foreman. This leads to increased control and more precise plotting of earth or soil grades for removal.

Faster Construction Times

One of the things that can slow up the earthmoving portion of construction project is knowing where the grades or boundaries are. If you have the site surveyed prior to the construction starting, then you can have that survey put into your GPS system and information software. GPS devices attached to the earthmoving equipment and trucks can easily access that data in real time and know exactly where to move, stop, and start.

Increased Job Placement

If your jobs are based on the bids that are made, then having a GPS system for your earthmoving equipment can help you. By having the GPS system, you already have topographical maps and other information that can reduce your survey time, which in turn reduces the time you need to complete the construction job. This reduced time on the site means reduced bids and increased job placement for your company.

Location and Planning

A key point you should know about choosing a GPS system for your earthmoving company is the ability you will have to determine the right location for your needs. You can use the GPS systems, especially those specifically designed for contractors and earthmovers, to locate the right grade for the job. You can then use 3D layouts to help plan the area for the project. These plans can be fed directly into the system so all of your contractors, heavy equipment, and earthmoving trucks have the same information.

These are just a few of the key points you should know about using a GPS system for your earthmoving business. If you have questions, consider contacting a representative such as Bimline for any of the various GPS system companies catering to contractors and earthmoving industries. 

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