Be prepared for the discontinuation of the 2G network

The discontinuation of the 2G network by telecom providers is getting closer.
A number of providers will start phasing out this network in 2025.
This has implications for various devices with a 2G modem, including perhaps your GPS fleet management units.
As of 2022, we (new) only supply 4G units.
Units purchased new before 2022 will almost certainly have a modem using the 2G network.
If you know this applies to you then this article is extra important to you.

At Rietveld, we understand how important continuity is for your business.
That’s why we are happy to help you switch to 4G in a timely manner so that your business operations are not disrupted.
In this article we answer frequently asked questions about the discontinuation of the 2G network and give you advice on how to switch to 4G.

Want to know how your fleet is doing?
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Why and when does 2G stop and how does the discontinuation work?

The use of the 4G and 5G network is increasing, which automatically decreases the use of the 2G network.
Telecom providers make efficient use of radio frequencies or radio spectrum, but these are not available indefinitely.
The spectrum previously used for 2G is now needed to increase the capacity, speed and reliability of the growing 4G network.

The 2G network is currently still being used for some business solutions; think ATMs, smart meters so the 2G cannot be stopped immediately.
Organizations will have the opportunity and time to switch to 4G/5G.
By the way, the exact termination date also varies by telecom provider, but most providers will no longer support this network after 2025.

What does this mean for your business, fleet and assets?

Our fleet management solutions are used for various purposes, such as tracking vehicles, optimizing scheduling and trip registration for the tax authorities.
Continuity is therefore crucial.
Once the 2G network is closed, GPS fleet management units with a 2G modem will unfortunately no longer work.
To ensure that your business operations can continue to run without interruption, it is necessary to switch to 4G units.

This is how Rietveld helps you in time:

If you are a Rietveld customer, we will inform you about the discontinuation of the 2G network and its impact on your business through our EayNews newsletter and direct mail and LinkedIn.
Together we will look at the best approach for your situation.
But you don’t have to wait for this, you can also contact us now to schedule an appointment.

Frequently asked questions answered

Below we answer frequently asked questions about upgrading your fleet from 2G to 4G.
Is your question not listed?
Don’t hesitate to contact us.
We are happy to help you and can also assist you in scheduling the upgrade to 4G.

Can Rietveld simply replace the sim cards so that my units run on 4G instead of 2G?
It’s not just about the sim cards, but also the compatibility of the units.
So it’s not as simple as putting a 4G sim card in a unit that only supports 2G.
The hardware also needs to be replaced.

Do I have to pay to upgrade to 4G?
There is a one-time charge for removing the 2G units, new hardware and installation.
These costs depend on the fleet and the type of 4G unit you need.
We are happy to discuss these costs with you before we begin the upgrade.

How long will the replacement take?
Installation takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour on average, depending on the type of vehicle and connections.
We can provide an estimate based on your fleet and unit types so that we can schedule sufficient time.

Why switch now and not wait longer?
We need to help all customers who have not yet switched from 2G to 4G before the network phase-out.
This requires a lot of time and proper planning.
Therefore, it is advisable not to wait any longer and start the switching process as soon as possible.
How much hurry you have to make with this depends on your provider.
This is because every Dutch and foreign provider uses a different end date.
At the moment (May 2024), KPN is definitely stopping 2G on December 1, 2025.

What are the benefits?
Upgrading to 4G gives you a future-proof technology that will allow you to move forward for years to come.
The faster connection provides greater reliability, less latency, more data processing power and greater compatibility with emerging technologies.
This makes data collection and analysis easier, so you can focus on improving your fleet performance and business results.

This is what happens if you do nothing:
Taking no action will have a negative impact on your business, fleet and employees.
The 2G units will continue to work until the 2G network is shut down.
Once this happens, the unit no longer works and you can no longer use our services.
This means that vehicle tracking stops, the digital tachograph no longer works and your company can no longer collect the data needed for business and tax purposes.

How will the transition affect the continuity of your business?
If the 4G units are built in and active before the 2G network is discontinued, there will be no negative impact on your business.
The 4G network is reliable and now standard for most fleets.
Telecom providers report that customers experience 4G as better and faster.
Only in very remote areas can the improvement be slight.

Conclusion

It is important to switch to 4G in a timely manner to ensure that your business operations are not disrupted.
Rietveld is ready to help you with this transition.
Please contact us and we will be happy to schedule an appointment with you to discuss all the possibilities and make the upgrade to 4G as smooth as possible.

So don’t take a chance and make sure your fleet is up to date so you can take advantage of the benefits 4G offers.
Don’t wait any longer, make an appointment with Rietveld today for a smooth transition to 4G!