Purpose Statement
The purpose of this article is to guide users through the complete process of integrating Samsara services with their First Due account, including generating and configuring a Samsara API token. This integration enables secure, automated synchronization of apparatus and asset data between systems, improving data accuracy, enhancing operational visibility, and reducing manual data entry.
Background Information
First Due’s Samsara integration allows departments to connect vehicle and asset data from Samsara directly into the First Due platform. By leveraging a secure API token with appropriate permissions, First Due can automatically retrieve and sync asset information, streamlining fleet and asset management workflows.
This process involves two key components:
- Generating a Samsara API token with the correct access permissions
- Configuring that token within First Due and linking apparatus records
This integration is typically managed by administrators or data managers responsible for system configuration and asset management.
Important Note:
Integration with Samsara is a paid feature and requires an upgraded First Due account. Departments interested in enabling this functionality should contact their First Due Sales Representative or Client Success Manager.
Prerequisites:
- Active Samsara account
- Administrative access to Samsara settings
- Valid Samsara API access token
- Samsara integration enabled within First Due
Required Permissions
To complete this process, users must have:
In First Due:
- Administrator or Data Manager permissions
- Access to the Assets module
- Permission to manage Setup and Settings within Assets
In Samsara:
- Organization Administrator (or equivalent role)
- Access to Settings
- Permission to create and manage API Tokens
Video
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Open Asset Setup
- Navigate to the Assets module in First Due.
- Click Setup.
Step 2: Verify the Settings Tab
- Confirm you are viewing the Settings tab within the Assets Setup area.
Step 3: Enable Samsara Services Integration
- Locate the Enable Samsara services integration toggle.
- Select the toggle to enable the integration.
Step 4: Enter the Samsara Access Token
- Paste the API access token generated in Samsara into the access token field.
- See section below on retrieving Samsara API token.
Step 5: Save the Integration Settings
- Select Save to store the integration configuration.
Step 6: Enter Samsara IDs on Apparatus Records
- Open the appropriate Apparatus record in First Due.
- Enter the corresponding Samsara ID in the apparatus record.
Tip:
Selecting the magnifying glass will find the Samsara ID of the matching VIN number in the First due and Samsara apparatus records.
Step 7: Save the Apparatus Record
- Select Save to apply the Samsara ID to the apparatus record.
Retrieving Samsara API Token
1. Log in to Samsara and Access Settings
- Navigate to https://cloud.samsara.com/
- Log in using your Samsara administrator credentials.
- From the main Samsara dashboard, select Settings from the left-hand navigation menu.
2. Access API Tokens
- Within Settings, locate and click API Tokens.
3. Add a New API Token
- Click Add an API Token.
4. Name the API Token
- In the name field, enter First Due Assets.
5. Configure Scope of Access
- Update the Scope of access for the token.
- Select Global Read.
- This option automatically selects all available read permissions and overrides individual read selections.
6. Save the API Token
- Click Save to generate the API token.
Step 7: Copy the API Token
- Click Copy to Clipboard.
- Store the token securely.
- This token will be entered into First Due during the integration setup.
Best Practices
- Verify the API token is active before enabling the integration
- Store API tokens in a secure password manager
- Avoid sharing tokens via email or unsecured communication channels
- Use clear, descriptive naming conventions (e.g., “First Due Assets”)
- Ensure VIN numbers match exactly between Samsara and First Due for accurate lookup
- Enter a Samsara ID for every apparatus to ensure full data synchronization
- Periodically review and remove unused API tokens
- Validate integration setup by confirming data is syncing correctly after configuration
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: I don’t see the Samsara integration toggle in First Due.
A: Your account may not have the integration enabled. Contact your First Due Sales Representative or Client Success Manager.
Q: I don’t see the API Tokens option in Samsara.
A: Your user role may not have sufficient permissions. Contact your Samsara administrator.
Q: The magnifying glass tool does not find a Samsara ID.
A: Ensure the VIN matches exactly between Samsara and First Due records.
Q: I forgot to copy the API token after creating it.
A: Samsara does not display tokens again for security reasons. You will need to generate a new token.
Q: Which permissions are required for the API token?
A: The token must be configured with Global Read access to allow proper data synchronization.
Q: Does every apparatus need a Samsara ID?
A: Yes. Each apparatus must have a valid Samsara ID to ensure accurate syncing.