Our answers to all your questions
Do you have questions about our solutions, how we operate, or our equipment? This FAQ section provides all the practical answers you need to help you quickly and easily.
Sensors
How to attach CHARLIE trackers and sensors?
The sensors are very easy to attach thanks to the pre-installed 3M adhesive pads. These highly resistant adhesive pads are suitable for a wide range of surfaces and have proven themselves in the construction industry. It is also possible to screw them in place or attach them with sealed metal clamps.
Trackers, on the other hand, are mainly installed with Velcro fasteners.
Can I integrate elements without sensors into the CHARLIE platform?
The CHARLIE platform allows elements without sensors to be integrated through the use of QR codes or by manually entering information.
Is installing GPS beacons complicated?
Not at all! Our GPS beacons are easy to install and can be quickly integrated into your equipment fleet without any complicated technical intervention.
What types of equipment can I equip with your sensors?
Our sensors can be installed on a wide variety of equipment: power tools, dump trucks, crane parts, machinery, construction tools, etc. Their compact size makes them highly versatile.
What is the lifespan of a sensor?
Depending on the model, the built-in battery offers a service life of 5 to 20 years. So you don't have to worry about replacing them frequently.
Are the sensors resistant to harsh conditions?
Yes. Some of our sensors are IP69K certified, meaning they are waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and resistant to harsh environments (rain, mud, extreme temperatures).
What happens if a sensor loses network connectivity?
We record its last known location, allowing you to know its last known position and date of detection.
Trackers
What equipment is suitable for GPS trackers?
GPS trackers are designed to detect sensors in areas such as workshops or transport vehicles.
However, they are also suitable for geolocating larger mobile equipment: dump trucks, vehicles, construction machinery, or any equipment requiring precise remote location.
What is the battery life of a GPS tracker?
Our trackers are designed to last several years depending on the transmission frequency selected. They operate on long-life batteries that are rechargeable or replaceable.
We also have trackers that plug directly into 220V power (for buildings) or 12V power (for vehicles).
How is a GPS tracker installed?
Very simply: they are attached using Velcro, screws, or magnetic mounts, depending on the material. No complex wiring is required, and installation takes just a few minutes.
Do GPS trackers work everywhere?
Yes, in any area covered by the GPS network. And in the event of a connection failure, they retain the last known location before automatically resynchronizing.
Can I receive specific alerts with GPS trackers?
Absolutely. You can set up alerts for movement, leaving a designated area (geofencing), or non-use directly on the Charlie Gestion platform.
How does our solution contribute to team safety?
We centralize maintenance and compliance information, making it easily accessible to all teams, which allows equipment to be managed safely and reduces the risk of accidents.
Can I integrate elements without sensors into the CHARLIE platform?
The CHARLIE platform allows elements without sensors to be integrated through the use of QR codes or by manually entering information.
Is it possible to export my data from the platform?
Our Platform allows you to easily link existing data from other systems/media. Charlie Gestion also includes import/export functions to facilitate management.
Can I connect Charlie to my internal tools (ERP, WMS)?
Integrating the Charlie solution into your tools is entirely possible. Many partners have already opted for this mode of operation, and you can find a list of partners who have already integrated it on our website. For more information, please contact a Charlie representative. You can ask us any questions you may have so that we can provide a personalized response to your needs.
What are the benefits for my company?
Using our solution allows you to reduce equipment losses, optimize your inventory, and eliminate human error. You save time thanks to automated inventory and real-time tracking, while improving your operational efficiency.
What types of documents can I store on the platform?
You can store all essential documents related to your equipment: certificates of conformity, maintenance reports, technical data sheets, delivery notes, etc. The platform centralizes this information, giving you quick and organized access, while simplifying administrative management and audits.
What exactly is Charlie Connect?
Charlie Connect is our mobile app that turns your smartphone into a detection relay. Even when locked in your pocket, it picks up signals from sensors to automatically update your fleet data in Charlie Management.
Do I need to leave the app open for it to work?
No. Once installed and activated, the app runs in the background. Your phone detects devices without any action on your part, ensuring smooth and continuous tracking.
Does Charlie Connect use a lot of battery power?
Not at all. The app uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, which is designed to limit power consumption. The impact on battery life is minimal.
Does Charlie Connect work in areas without network coverage?
Yes. The smartphone records detections locally. As soon as you reconnect to the network, the data is automatically synchronized with the platform.
Can I use Charlie Connect with multiple users in the field?
Absolutely. Every employee can install the app. The more smartphones you have equipped, the broader the detection, which enhances the tracking coverage of your fleet.
Geolocation
How can GPS tracking reduce equipment loss?
With real-time tracking, you know exactly where each tool is located. This makes it easier to keep track of them, speeds up recovery if they are lost, and reduces the risk of theft. Our platform provides customizable alerts, such as geofencing, which notifies you as soon as equipment enters or leaves a defined area.
Does the GPS system work everywhere?
The GPS system works in any area covered by a GPS network. For areas without coverage, our sensors record the last known location and continue to transmit data as soon as a connection is reestablished.
Is installing GPS beacons complicated?
Not at all! Our GPS beacons are easy to install and can be quickly integrated into your equipment fleet without any complicated technical intervention.
What are the benefits for my company?
Using our solution allows you to reduce equipment losses, optimize your inventory, and eliminate human error. You save time thanks to automated inventory and real-time tracking, while improving your operational efficiency.
Inventories
How does automatic inventory work?
Automatic inventory management relies on connected sensors that transmit the location and status of your equipment in real time. Thanks to our platform, each piece of equipment is tracked accurately, without manual intervention. You get an instant overview of your inventory, its status, and availability.
What types of equipment can be managed by automatic inventory?
Any equipment fitted with Charlie sensors or QR codes can be tracked automatically, whether it is in storage or in use in the field. Our solution adapts to all your needs to ensure an accurate, up-to-date inventory in real time.
What savings can I achieve with automatic inventory?
By reducing human error, you limit equipment loss and unnecessary purchases. Automatic inventory optimization streamlines your stock, reduces time spent searching for equipment, and prevents duplication. The result: significant savings in time, resources, and budget, while improving your operational efficiency.
Is automatic inventory suitable for large organizations?
Automatic inventory management is perfectly suited to any type of business. Our solution is designed to manage large volumes of equipment spread across multiple sites. Thanks to centralized data and real-time tracking, you benefit from complete and optimized visibility.
Maintenance and compliance
How does our solution contribute to team safety?
We centralize maintenance and compliance information, making it easily accessible to all teams, which allows equipment to be managed safely and reduces the risk of accidents.
Can I receive reminders for maintenance?
You can schedule alerts based on the dates or usage cycles of your equipment. This ensures that your equipment remains compliant, functional, and ready for use, while avoiding oversights or delays in maintenance.
How can you ensure compliance with your solution?
With centralized document management, intervention histories, and automated reminders, you have complete traceability and proof of compliance ready for audits.
What types of documents can I store on the platform?
You can store all essential documents related to your equipment: certificates of conformity, maintenance reports, technical data sheets, delivery notes, etc. The platform centralizes this information, giving you quick and organized access, while simplifying administrative management and audits.
How can I be notified of upcoming maintenance on my equipment?
On the platform, each piece of equipment is assigned a status based on its revision schedule. The dynamic filters in the tracking table or map allow you to quickly identify the equipment that needs to be checked.
In addition, configurable alerts notify you of upcoming maintenance or malfunctions. These notifications, sent as alerts on the platform or by email, help you manage your fleet proactively and efficiently.
Railway
How can equipment loss be avoided during nighttime work on railroad tracks?
Our sensors and trackers automatically identify and geolocate each tool or machine. Even when transferred between teams, the location and status are recorded in real time. You limit losses and confusion, and your teams can easily find the equipment.
How can penalties for delays due to missing equipment be limited?
A lost tool can block a railway construction site and be costly. With our real-time alerts, you know immediately where critical equipment is located. This reduces searches, emergency purchases, and, above all, the risk of penalties for delays.
Is it possible to track equipment loans between construction teams?
Yes. Each piece of equipment is assigned to a team, area, or job site. Movements are recorded automatically, which prevents information loss and misunderstandings related to untracked loans.
How can I ensure that my railway equipment complies with regulations?
Each piece of equipment has a digital logbook in Charlie Gestion. Maintenance and compliance are tracked, and alerts notify you before each deadline. You are ready for any inspection, and your teams can work safely.
Our teams often work in areas with no cell service. Does the solution work?
Yes. Our sensors record the last known location and synchronize the data as soon as a network is available. You maintain reliable traceability, even in remote areas.
construction
How can you avoid losing equipment between multiple ongoing construction sites?
With our sensors and trackers, each piece of equipment is geolocated and tracked automatically. The platform shows you in real time where the equipment is located, who is using it, and for how long. You gain visibility and reduce costly losses.
Is it possible to simplify the inventory of my equipment fleet?
Yes. Inventories are automated thanks to Bluetooth detection and QR codes. No more spending hours manually checking stock: the platform updates your inventories continuously. You know immediately which tools are available, in repair, or on site.
How can delays caused by missing equipment on a construction site be reduced?
A missing tool can bring an entire team to a standstill. With Charlie Solutions, you receive alerts if equipment scheduled for a job site is unavailable or missing. This allows you to react quickly, anticipate transfers, and avoid work interruptions that lead to costly delays.
Does the solution help plan equipment usage between my teams?
Yes. The platform provides you with a consolidated view of your equipment fleet and allows you to assign equipment by team, by site, or by area.
How can I improve the safety and compliance of my construction equipment?
Charlie Gestion centralizes maintenance and compliance information for your tools and machines. Automatic reminders alert you before each deadline, and all certificates are stored in one place.
Tower cranes
How can I find out in real time where my crane components (masts, cabins, etc.) are located?
Each item of equipment is geolocated and visible on Charlie Gestion, which prevents wasted time and scheduling errors. No more need to go to the storage area: with just one click, you can see which items are available and which are not.
Can I optimize my inventories of items scattered across multiple sites?
Inventories are automatically updated thanks to sensor and tracker detection. Every movement is recorded without manual input, ensuring reliable and up-to-date data.
How can you reduce rental planning errors?
Our system monitors the availability of items and alerts you in the event of double bookings or scheduling conflicts. You avoid unpleasant surprises on the day and secure your commitments to your customers.
How to detect items that are late for return from rental?
The sensors track movements, and you can set up an alert to notify you when the rental period ends. You know immediately which items have not been returned on time and can act quickly to remind the customer or adjust the billing.
Is it possible to anticipate the maintenance of critical components?
Each item has a specific status (compliant, to be reviewed, out of service, etc.). Automated reminders notify you before maintenance or inspection deadlines.
Recycling
How can you prevent dumpsters from being left behind at customers' premises?
Each dumpster equipped with a sensor is tracked in real time via the platform. You can immediately see where it is and how long it has been parked. Automatic alerts remind you when a dumpster has not moved for too long.
How can losses related to inappropriate deposits be reduced?
Our sensors allow you to define authorized deposit areas (geofencing). If a dumpster is moved outside the designated area, you will immediately receive an alert. This allows you to intervene quickly to correct the situation. This prevents losses due to illegal dumping, secures your equipment, and reduces disputes with your customers.
What can be done to limit the cost of lost dumpsters?
Thanks to geolocation and travel history, you always know who used the dumpster, when, and where it was dropped off.
Is it possible to plan rotations more effectively?
Yes. The platform gives you a clear overview of the fleet: available containers, full containers, containers in transit. Drivers can check the location and status of each container in real time, allowing them to optimize their routes.
How can you manage the stock of dumpsters across multiple sites?
Charlie centralizes all information in a single interface. You get a consolidated view of your dumpsters, whether they are at a depot, at a customer's site, or en route. This multi-site management allows you to better allocate your resources, limit unnecessary overstocking, and make faster and more accurate decisions to balance your fleet.
Green spaces
How should I handle my equipment in white areas (forests, parks)?
Our sensors and the Charlie Connect app record positions even without a network connection. Data is stored locally and synchronized as soon as the connection is restored. This prevents information loss and ensures reliable tracking, regardless of field conditions.
Can I track the chainsaws and mowers entrusted to my teams?
Yes. Each tool is identified by a sensor or QR code and associated with a user. This means you know who is using what, at which site, and what condition the equipment is in. This tracking reduces losses and encourages accountability among teams, who are aware that all equipment is tracked and monitored.
How can losses be avoided when renting equipment?
The platform records every movement and every loan using sensors or QR codes. You automatically track the entries and exits of your fleet, and you know immediately if any equipment has not been returned.
Is it possible to receive alerts about upcoming maintenance?
Yes. Each tool has a digital "logbook" that centralizes its maintenance, compliance, and usage history. Configurable alerts notify you before each deadline, allowing you to anticipate servicing and ensure the safety of your teams in the field.
What can be done about the sector's technological backwardness?
The green space sector is still often managed using paper or Excel files, which leads to errors and wasted time. Charlie Solutions offers an easy-to-use platform and mobile app designed for the field. Your inventories, monitoring, and maintenance become digital and automatic, without adding to your teams' daily workload.
Industrial maintenance
How can you avoid losing equipment at a client's site?
With our sensors and trackers, each tool is identified and tracked in real time. You know who is using it, where it is located, and when it was moved.
Can I centralize the metrological compliance of my instruments?
Yes. Charlie Gestion allows you to create a digital "logbook" for each measuring instrument or critical tool. You can store certificates, manuals, and inspection reports, and receive automatic reminders before each deadline. This centralization simplifies audits, reduces the risk of non-compliance, and ensures that your instruments are always ready and reliable.
How can duplicate purchases due to losses be reduced?
With real-time traceability and usage history, you know exactly what you own, where it is, and what condition it is in.
Is the system suitable for multi-site interventions?
The platform centralizes all data, regardless of the intervention site or the number of teams mobilized. You have access to a consolidated view of the fleet and can filter by site, team, or zone.
How can I improve communication between my field teams and the equipment manager?
Charlie Gestion is accessible on the web and mobile devices. Data is automatically updated via sensors and shared with the manager in real time. Field teams no longer need to submit manual reports, and the equipment manager has a clear and reliable overview of the fleet. You save time, avoid errors, and streamline internal communication.
Can't find the answers to all your questions?
We can answer all your questions in detail, so please contact us!
The Charlie experience, in their own words
4.8 / 5
Customer testimonials verified by Trustfolio
Charlie Solutions has been supporting us since 2021. We have a very clear overview of our mobile equipment fleet. We can monitor this equipment more effectively, whether for preventive or corrective maintenance. Our sites are geographically distant from one another, and the mobile app allows us to avoid traveling unnecessary miles at a glance.
With Charlie, we benefited from remote monitoring thanks to the implementation of a centralized system, enabling efficient and optimal management of equipment. There was also continuous optimization and adaptation of the application to meet the specific needs of the company. Personalized support was also offered, including assistance with commissioning, modification of exports on request, and technical support.
Our problem was the lack of a geolocation system for our containers (dumpster fleet). To solve this problem, Charlie Solutions proposed tailored solutions to give us a precise overview of our deployed fleet.
We were looking for a reliable and robust solution for tracking our dumpsters and compactors. Tracking dumpsters with Charlie gives operations teams a near real-time view of the equipment.
We were looking for a tracking solution with a long battery life that was suitable and easy to install (without connection) on small portable electric and thermal railway equipment. Our objectives were to locate and track equipment returns at the end of our projects. The various sensors offered are perfectly suited to the lifespan of our equipment. A real added value in the daily management of our fleet.
Charlie Solution helped us set up a comprehensive, high-performance equipment tracking and management system. The team was always attentive and full of ideas, and we were able to find solutions to all of our requests. We are very satisfied.
We needed to implement a tool for tracking and managing equipment. The implementation of the Charlie interface and chips on the equipment allowed us to track the validity dates related to equipment compliance, while offering the ability to locate it in real time.
Our challenge was to better manage our fleet of vehicles, particularly by tracking VGP, approvals, and QR codes for optimal traceability. Charlie's team has always been attentive, with a genuine desire to develop the application according to our needs and expectations.
This solution aims to optimize resource management, improve equipment traceability, and increase operational efficiency by reducing the time spent searching for equipment. Discussions with Charlie Solutions have been very positive, and we are convinced of the benefits it could bring in terms of process optimization, time savings, and efficient equipment management within the Maintenance Technicenters.
Our challenge was to geolocate a fleet of containers. With Charlie Solutions, we received excellent support in developing the solution, as well as a quick response to the necessary modifications and adaptations.
We are a metrology laboratory, and many of our daily contacts are tool fleet managers. We know that inventorying equipment batches can sometimes be tedious and time-consuming. It was in this context that we contacted Charlie Solutions to find a solution that went beyond the initial scope of our business, while supporting our customers with their management issues. The initial impact so far has been to be able to offer and support our customers in meeting their fleet management needs.
Our initial challenge was to ensure the traceability of waste collection bins and our fleet of vehicles. Thanks to the solution we implemented, we now have tracking and visibility across our entire fleet.
Infrabel needed to locate its safety equipment. Charlie Solutions delivered the equipment quickly, provided excellent training, and modified the app to meet the customer's needs. User feedback has been very positive.
We began our partnership with Charlie Solutions in 2022. We were able to tailor the solution to our needs, and now we have accurate reporting and monitoring, allowing us to effectively manage our entire equipment fleet.
The deployment of the equipment tracking solution was successful. The system is effective and functioning properly.
Definition of a framework agreement: We have established a framework agreement with Charlie Solution, listing them as an official supplier for BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) tags. This agreement allows us to benefit from their innovative solutions to improve the traceability and management of our equipment. We are confident that this collaboration with Charlie Solution will continue to bring significant benefits to our organization.
The installation of Charlie chips on all of the unit's tools has enabled optimized tracking of our equipment fleet, improved inventory management, and a clearer overview. This has improved equipment availability and simplified inventory operations and tool searches.