A method for by an asset tracking system is provided. An example method includes receiving a first plurality of data messages from an asset coupled to the asset tracking system and attempting to identify an asset type fingerprint based on the first plurality of messages. In response to failing to identify an asset type fingerprint based on the first plurality of messages, the example method further includes requesting a determined asset type fingerprint for the asset from an asset data analysis system, providing access to the first plurality of data messages to the asset data analysis system, receiving the determined asset type fingerprint for the asset from the asset data analysis system, and obtaining asset information from the asset by decoding a second plurality of data messages received from the asset in accordance with a set of signal definitions linked to the determined asset type fingerprint.