3G Network Shutdown in Switzerland: How Fleet Managers Can Prepare for 2026

By the end of 2025, Swiss mobile operators will switch off their 3G networks. This means that older devices using 3G - like some GPS trackers and fleet management tools - will stop working. For companies that use telematics to track vehicles, check maintenance, or manage drivers, this change could cause real problems if they don’t prepare in time. 

But it’s not all bad news! The end of 3G is also a chance to upgrade to newer, faster, and more reliable technology like 4G. With good planning, fleet managers can avoid interruptions, keep their data flowing smoothly, and make their operations stronger than ever. 

In this article, we’ll explain: 

• Why the 3G shutdown matters?

• How it affects fleets?

• Timeline and regional shutdowns in Switzerland - what fleets should know.

• What steps you can take to get ready for the change - and turn it into an opportunity for better performance and smarter fleet management? 

• How Logifleet can help?
  
  

Why the 3G Shutdown Matters?

You might wonder why 3G is being turned off. The main reason is that it’s old technology. The 3G network has been around for more than 20 years. It was one of the first mobile systems that made it possible for phones and devices to connect to the internet and share data. But technology keeps moving forward, and now faster networks like 4G and 5G have taken its place. 

Keeping 3G running takes up space and resources that could be used for newer networks. By shutting it down, mobile companies can focus on improving speed, coverage, and reliability for everyone. This helps make sure that both people and businesses can use the latest digital tools without slow or weak connections. 

When 3G is turned off, any device that still uses it - such as older GPS trackers or telematics units in vehicles - will stop working. This means these devices won’t be able to send or receive information anymore. For fleets, that could mean losing live tracking, driver updates, and maintenance alerts. 

If companies don’t prepare in time, they could face delays, missed data, and trouble managing their vehicles. That’s why it’s so important to understand the change and start planning early. By getting ready now, businesses can avoid problems and make the move to better, faster technology with confidence. 

How the Shutdown Affects Fleet Operations?

When the 3G network shuts down, many telematics devices that depend on it will stop working. This can create real challenges for fleet managers who rely on live information to keep everything running smoothly. Here’s how it can affect daily operations: 

• Loss of live tracking: Vehicles using 3G devices will no longer send their location or trip data. Fleet managers won’t be able to see where vehicles are in real time. 

• No automatic updates: Systems that send alerts about maintenance, fuel use, or driver behavior might stop reporting correctly. 

• Extra costs and planning: Companies may need to buy and install new devices that work with 4G or 5G networks. This takes time, money, and coordination. 

• Possible downtime: If the change isn’t planned carefully, some vehicles might go offline for a while, making it harder to manage deliveries, routes, or schedules. 

Even though the transition may seem challenging, upgrading to newer technology can actually make fleets more efficient and reliable in the long run. Newer devices offer faster data transfer, better coverage, and more detailed insights - all of which help companies improve their operations. 

Timeline and Regional Shutdowns in Switzerland - What Fleets Should Know 

The 3G shutdown in Switzerland will not happen all at once. Mobile providers are turning off the network step by step, depending on the region and company. Fleet managers need to be aware of these dates so they can plan ahead and avoid disruptions. 

Sunrise 

Sunrise started switching off its 3G network on June 10, 2025. The process is happening gradually, region by region. Areas such as Wallis and Graubünden were among the first to lose 3G service, followed by Vaud, Geneva, and Jura during the summer. The full shutdown is expected to be finished by late summer 2025. 
 Source: https://carteantennesuisse.ch/desactivation-3g-sunrise-carte-direct/  and https://www.sunrise.ch/en/support/mobile/3g 

Swisscom 

Swisscom plans to complete its 3G shutdown by the end of 2025. Some antennas are already being turned off in certain areas. This means that 3G coverage will slowly become weaker before it disappears completely. 
 Source: https://www.konsumentenschutz.ch/allgemein/2025/05/abschaltung-des-3g-mobilfunknetzes/  

Salt 

Salt has not yet confirmed an exact shutdown date, but fleet managers should still check whether their vehicles use devices that depend on 3G and prepare early. 
 Source: https://www.aesag.ch/en/blog/news/shutdown-of-the-3g-network-in-switzerland-2025  

What This Means for Fleets?

Because the 3G shutdown is happening in stages, some vehicles might lose connection earlier than others - depending on where they travel. For example, a truck driving through a canton where 3G is already turned off could suddenly stop sending data or location updates. Some tracking systems can keep track of the position and send the data when 3G is available, but you will lose real-time tracking. 

To stay ready, fleet managers should: 

• Upgrade vehicles in high-risk zones first, such as Wallis, Graubünden, Vaud, Geneva, and Jura. 

• Plan the switch in stages, following the shutdown schedule to minimize downtime. 

• Check every device in the fleet and replace those that still rely on 3G before the end of 2025. 

By planning early, fleets can keep operations running smoothly, avoid data gaps, and take advantage of faster, more reliable 4G and 5G connections. 

Getting Ready for the Change 

Even though the 3G shutdown may sound worrying, it’s actually a great chance to make your fleet stronger and smarter. With the right steps, you can turn this challenge into an opportunity to modernize and improve how your vehicles work together. 

Here’s what you can do to get ready: 

1. Check your devices. Make a list of all the telematics units and trackers your fleet uses. Find out which ones still run on 3G and which are already using 4G.

2. Talk to your telematics provider. Ask for clear information about your current hardware. They can tell you which devices need replacing and help you plan upgrades that fit your budget and schedule. 

3. Plan the upgrade in steps. You don’t need to replace everything overnight. Start with vehicles that travel in regions where 3G is already being turned off. That way, you stay connected as the shutdown spreads.

4. Schedule installations wisely. Choose times that won’t interrupt your daily work - like weekends or low-activity days. A good plan keeps your operations running smoothly during the switch. 

5. Train your team. Make sure drivers and fleet managers know how to use any new systems. When everyone understands the new tools, you’ll get better data and make faster, smarter decisions.

6. Use the upgrade to improve performance. Newer 4G and 5G systems can do more than just track vehicles - they can give you real-time insights into fuel use, routes, driver behavior, and maintenance. This means safer, more efficient, and more cost-effective operations. 

Turning Change into Opportunity

The end of 3G isn’t just the end of an old network - it’s the start of a better connected future for fleets in Switzerland. By acting early, you can avoid problems, save time, and take advantage of faster, smarter technology. 

With careful planning, your fleet will not only stay connected but also run more efficiently and sustainably. The 3G shutdown may be coming soon, but for fleet managers who prepare today, it’s the perfect moment to move forward into a stronger digital future. 

How Logifleet Can Help?

At Logifleet, we understand that changes like the 3G shutdown can feel complicated - especially when you depend on your vehicles every day. That’s why we’re here to make the transition simple, fast, and worry-free. 

Our team can help you: 

• Check your current devices and find out which ones will stop working after the 3G shutdown. 

• Plan your upgrade to 4G so your vehicles stay connected everywhere in Switzerland. 

• Install and set up new hardware with as little downtime as possible, keeping your operations running smoothly. 

• Train your team so everyone knows how to use the new system and take full advantage of its features. 

• Use data smarter - our platform turns telematics information into easy-to-read reports that help you improve routes, save fuel, and manage maintenance better. 

By working with Logifleet, you’re not just replacing old devices - you’re upgrading your entire fleet management system. Our goal is to help you stay connected, save time, and make smarter decisions every day. 

Together, we can make sure your fleet is ready for the future - faster, more efficient, and built on the latest technology. 

Ready to Future-Proof Your Fleet? 

Don’t wait until your vehicles go offline - start preparing for the 3G shutdown today. Logifleet can help you upgrade smoothly, keep your data flowing, and make your fleet smarter than ever. 

👉 Get in touch with our team today to check your devices, plan your 4G upgrade, and make sure your fleet stays connected across Switzerland. 

Contact us and let’s build a stronger, faster, and more connected future for your business.