Is that "cheap" tracker dangerous?The Hidden Risks in Your GPS Tracker Choice
- Richard Weremiuk
- Jun 22
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 30
When selecting GPS tracking equipment for Duke of Edinburgh expeditions or outdoor activities, many organisations focus solely on price and basic functionality. However, beneath the surface of what appears to be a simple purchasing decision lies a complex web of legal requirements, safety standards, and operational risks that could expose your organisation to significant liability.
Recent market analysis reveals that numerous GPS tracking devices available through online marketplaces lack fundamental safety certifications required for legal use in the UK. For expedition leaders, outdoor education coordinators, and safety-conscious organisations, understanding these differences is essential risk management.
Why Compliance and Capability Matter: Comparing the Queclink GL320MG and the FM03E (aka GT60)
In GPS tracking, reliability isn’t just about finding your location—it’s about safety, regulatory compliance, and professional-grade performance. Below, we compare the CE-certified Queclink GL320MG with the GT60 / FM03E, and similar devices, that have raised questions around both safety and legal use in the UK.
📸 Device Visuals
Queclink GL320MG – Front and Back
Front | Back |
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GT60 / FM03E – Front and Back
Front | Back |
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🔍 Comparison
Feature | Queclink GL320MG | GT60 / FM03 |
Conformity Marking | ✅ CE certified | ❌ No CE or UKCA marking identified |
Battery Type | User-replaceable lithium cell | Soldered-in lithium cell |
Satellite Constellations | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou | GPS, BeiDou only |
Connectivity | LTE Cat M1/NB2 + 2G fallback | 2G/3G/4G variants |
Waterproofing | IP67 | ❌ No waterproof rating |
Size & Weight | 78×40×27mm, 93g | 78x39x29mm, 122g |
Battery | 2700 MaH | 3000 MaH |
⚖️ The Legal Reality: Compliance Isn't Optional
We have examined the GT60 (FM03E) and it does not carry either the UKCA or CE conformity marking. These markings are essential under UK and EU product safety regulations, particularly for electronic devices containing lithium batteries, such as GPS trackers.
Under the Product Safety and Metrology Regulations 2024, it is a legal requirement that such equipment be certified as meeting essential health, safety, and environmental protection standards before being placed on the market. While the GT60 / FM03 may be readily available through certain marketplaces, the absence of recognised conformity markings raises serious concerns regarding its legal status for both sale and hire in the UK, that can result vendors risking fine or imprisonment.
The Insurance Risk Factor
In addition, the use of non-compliant devices may invalidate public liability insurance. Should a safety incident occur—for instance, a battery malfunction or thermal event—the supplier could be exposed to significant legal liability under consumer protection and health and safety legislation. Choosing to buy or hire such equipment for public or commercial expeditions or events, therefore, introduces unacceptable risk.
⚖️ Professional Perspective: Quality Matters When Safety Is Paramount
The Queclink GL320MG is built for safe use: it meets legal standards, supports all global satellite constellations for better accuracy, and offers a replaceable battery—meaning less risk, longer lifespan, and lower total cost of ownership.
The GT60 / FM03E, while very cheap ( just $20 imported ), lacks critical regulatory marks, has a non-replaceable battery, and doesn’t deliver the same level of geolocation precision. For organisations where safety, legal compliance, and operational reliability matter, the Kitemarked devices such as our GL320MG is the only choice.
The Bottom Line: Your Decision Impacts More Than Just Cost
When you're responsible for student safety on Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, cutting corners on equipment is a liability that could compromise everything you've worked to build. The difference between compliant and non-compliant tracking devices extends far beyond technical specifications; it's about protecting your organisation, your participants, and your professional reputation.
Ready to Make the Right Choice?
Don't let non-compliant equipment put your expeditions at risk. TrackTrail® exclusively uses CE-certified, professional-grade tracking devices that meet all UK safety standards whilst delivering the reliability your expeditions demand.
Contact TrackTrail® today to discuss your tracking requirements and discover how our compliant, professional-grade solutions can enhance safety whilst protecting your organisation from unnecessary risk.
📞 Book a demonstration: Learn how our certified tracking solutions can transform your expedition safety protocols 01905 570880
💻 Get expert advice: Speak with our team about compliance requirements and device selection sales@tracktrail.co.uk
🛡️ Protect your organisation: Ensure your tracking equipment meets all legal and safety standards
Because when it comes to student safety, compliance isn't optional—it's essential.
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