GPS visibility cuts returnable-asset exposure at Neovia

Neovia Logistics has used GPS-enabled tracking to address losses of reusable roll cages and tote boxes in a BMW Group UK parts distribution network. The deployment, supplied by Peak Technologies and based on Sensolus, has reduced annual asset exposure by as much as £800,000, according to the companies.

Before the project, about 40% of the returnable fleet—valued at approximately £320,000—was at risk of disappearing from the returns cycle. Barcodes confirmed that equipment left a Neovia facility, but offered no visibility while assets moved through third-party carriers and a network of more than 230 dealerships.

Tracking without infrastructure changes

The programme followed a BMW Group UK requirement for GPS-based asset management as part of contract renewal. Neovia selected the solution after a tender launched in December 2025. It became fully operational across a 5,000-asset fleet in less than four months.

The compact Sensolus 1110 tracker is attached to the narrow face of a roll cage with an adhesive pad, drilling and rivets. The method avoids changes to existing sorting equipment. Asset profiles can include orientation alerts, while geofences record arrival and departure at dealership locations. Settings can also be updated remotely, including the option to disable geolocation while equipment is in active service.

From recovery to operational intelligence

GPS records have helped return cages that had previously disappeared and provide time-stamped evidence when responsibility for an asset is disputed. Neovia is also using the platform to examine dwell times, dock throughput, warehouse performance and movement heat maps.

A later delivery of 3,500 tote boxes and 1,500 roll cages was made tracking-ready within four to five weeks. The result is a scalable digital layer for reusable logistics equipment, with potential to reduce replacement purchases, cardboard waste and avoidable process inefficiencies.