For managers, the cost of running a fleet is a constant source of worry; there is the ever-present demand to deliver excellent results at the lowest possible cost, while also maintaining high safety standards, as well. A lot of the worry stems from issues that are not properly addressed, where proper planning and forethought are conspicuously absent: unsafe driving styles, unclear maintenance policies, irregular schedules and poor communication can all adversely affect profitability.
Here are a few sound tips to help you get back on track; some of them might seem trivial, but if you stick to them they really can make a positive difference to managing your fleet:
1 - Choose suitable vehicles for your fleet
What type of vehicle is most suitable for your business? Make sure you choose the right ones, then get to know them in order to plan appropriate maintenance programs and train drivers to regularly check them, accordingly. Choosing only what is really needed for your business, and most suited, will cut on costs—be picky.
2 – Ensure that your drivers are responsible and well-trained
Make sure your drivers are reliable and know all safety features and how their driving style can have an impact on fuel consumption and safety. Vehicle tracking might help in this, identifying not only driving behaviour that is unsafe and in need of correction, but also highlighting any excessive idling, which can make a noticeable difference to your fuel economy.
3 - Prevent downtime with efficient maintenance
Vehicle downtime is a fleet’s number one enemy. Downtime is very costly, not only in regard to vehicle repair but also in terms of inactive staff, vehicle replacement and other factors. Efficient maintenance, scheduled regularly, starting with everyday checks, is essential for a fleet’s success.
4 - Having real data to work with
When taking decisions, regarding a fleet, finding the numbers that really matter is essential. Once again, vehicle tracking comes into its own here—enabling you to detect which sectors of your business need a review and what decisions have to be made as a consequence.
5 - Mutual respect and communication
A team needs the buy-in of all its members. Good communication is paramount in an efficient fleet as well as ensuring everyone’s full awareness of company policy regarding health and safety, the use of mobile devices, maintenance programs and so on.
