TRAILER TRACKING AND EBS DATA READING FOR HEAVY FLEET LOGISTICS

INTRO

Gaining full visibility over heavy-duty fleets remains a complex challenge. While truck tracking is relatively simple, bringing trailers into the picture typically requires separate devices and higher costs that clients resist. But what if we told you that with Teltonika's FMx650 series trackers, you could eliminate the need for additional hardware? Thanks to the TrailerCAN feature, complete truck-trailer visibility is now possible through CAN bus connection, offering a tailored solution for the logistics and rental needs of modern fleet management.

CHALLENGE

Which of the two holds the cargo: the truck or the trailer? Whether it's a refrigerated unit transporting pharmaceuticals or a side dump hauling gravel, the actual goods being moved are always in the trailer. The growing focus on trailer management is backed by data: Berg Insight (2025) estimates that 22.4 million cargo unit trackers will be deployed globally by 2028. However, increased adoption brings new challenges, such as more data to manage and more equipment to track.

Problems in trailer management often start with a visibility gap. When trailers are not reliably identified and linked in the system, drivers can unknowingly depart the hub with the wrong unit. Correcting such errors once the truck is on the road requires extra communication and disrupts delivery schedules. Order management also suffers when external devices are needed to track assets, as drivers may forget to connect them.

Furthermore, while trailer coupling follows ISO standards, adding more sensors or steps increases complexity and raises the risk of human error. Altogether, these gaps slow operations, create confusion, and waste time across the fleet.

Yet, the challenges do not end once the truck leaves the yard. On the road, trailer condition directly affects both maintenance and fuel efficiency.

Fuel is one of the largest cost drivers for fleets, accounting for up to 30% of total operating expenses. To mitigate this, many logistics operators focus on driver behaviour, fuel station partnerships, and route optimisation. But there is also a less obvious factor that impacts efficiency: trailer tyres.

Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, requiring more energy to move the vehicle and leading to higher fuel consumption. In fact, even a 5% drop in pressure can result in a 1% increase in fuel use per trip. To address this, new EU regulations require all trailers registered from 7 July 2024 to be equipped with Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS). These systems are essential for cutting fuel costs and preventing avoidable breakdowns.

Regulations are progressively treating trailers as separate, accountable assets. In the UK, new braking rules require inspections four times per year unless electronic data is reported, whereas Switzerland’s e-toll system now charges for both truck and trailer. As similar policies spread globally, trailer data is becoming essential for compliance.

SOLUTION

With Teltonika’s FMx650 series tracker, one device is all you need to monitor both the truck and its trailer. This is possible because modern trucks and trailers are designed to work as an integrated system, sharing critical operational data through their Electronic Braking Systems (EBS).

How does it work? When a trailer connects to a truck, their EBS modules automatically communicate through the standard electrical connection. The truck needs to coordinate braking, monitor tyre pressures, and manage other safety systems across the entire vehicle combination, so this data exchange happens continuously while coupled.

The TrailerCAN feature of FMx650 trackers taps into this existing communication to access key trailer information such as braking performance, VIN numbers, tyre data, and other essential parameters. It supports three different connection methods to match any operational needs:

1. Directly from the truck: When the trailer is coupled, FMx650 can extract trailer data directly from the truck's CAN bus. To preserve the vehicle’s wiring and warranty, it is recommended to use Teltonika ECAN02 adapter.

2. Straight from the EBS modulator: The device can be connected directly to the trailer’s EBS modulator via its diagnostic line or to another CAN line, using a manufacturer-specific OEM cable to ensure compatibility.

3. Via the trailer socket (ISO 7638): FMx650 can also be installed by tapping into the trailer’s ISO 7638 7-pin socket.

If the goal is to monitor only the trailer – for example, in rental fleets or cargo-focused operations – then connecting via the EBS modulator or ISO 7638 socket is a practical option.

However, to gain full operational visibility, including vehicle condition and driver behaviour, installing Teltonika’s FMC650 device inside the truck is the most effective setup. This way, our tracker uses an FMS cable to access truck data, while ECAN02 adapter simultaneously reads trailer data through the existing EBS communication network.

With access to FMS data, fleet managers can reduce fuel costs and maintenance expenses by monitoring driving behaviour using the built-in eco-driving features. At the same time, tachograph data enables smarter route planning and better compliance with driving time regulations. This helps companies avoid fines while optimising delivery schedules, especially when coordinating stops with fuel partners.

On the trailer side, TrailerCAN provides real-time visibility into key parameters like the VIN number, braking system status, axle loads, TPMS data, and various dynamic driving aids such as traction and stability controls. This not only ensures the cargo is transported under the right conditions but also helps confirm the correct trailer is in use, minimising costly errors or compliance risks related to overloading or equipment mismatch.

TOPOLOGY #1 | TRUCK CONNECTION

TOPOLOGY #2 | TRAILER CONNECTION

BENEFITS

• Reliable trailer identification – FMx650’s VIN reading capability ensures that fleet managers always know which trailer is attached, eliminating incorrect assignments, delays, and mix-ups at loading docks.

  
  

• Trailer health monitoring – by tracking brake condition, tyre pressure, and axle load, fleet managers can detect potential issues early, gather usage data, and avoid costly breakdowns and last-minute repairs.

  
  

• Lower maintenance cost – monitoring real-time trailer conditions helps prevent emergency repairs, and scheduled maintenance becomes more predictable, keeping trailers in good condition without unexpected expenses.

  
  

• Universal solution – based on fleet ownership, FMx650 can be used on the truck or the trailer to gather the same amount of data.

WHY TELTONIKA?

PROFESSIONAL category FMx650 trackers are a smart, all-in-one solution for heavy fleet logistics, delivering you critical data without the high costs or complications of aftermarket systems. With the built-in TrailerCAN feature, you can monitor trailer-specific metrics to ensure safety, compliance, and the right cargo every time. Backed by trusted IoT expertise and designed for reliability in demanding environments, FMx650 device series gives you the tools to stay ahead of regulations and run smoother operations.