A tracking system (10) for tracking movable assets (16) and several
methods for using the system are provided. The tracking system includes a
monitoring device (22), a tracking information network (20), a data
communication network (18), a tracker tag (12), and a tracking
information server (14). The tracker tag uses GPS technology. The
tracking information server provides programmed instructions to the
tracker tag in messages via a messaging system. The tracker tag
selectively retrieves the messages from the messaging system. The
tracking information server provides tracking information and related
information to a subscriber. In one embodiment, the tracker tag is in
communication with an Iridium satellite constellation (28) and tracking
information is displayed to the subscriber when the asset is
substantially anywhere in the world. In another embodiment, the
monitoring device is in communication with the Iridium satellite
constellation and tracking information is displayed to the subscriber
when the subscriber is substantially anywhere in the world, preferably
via the Internet (36).