The fleet management market is projected to reach $34,629 million by 2022, with a CAGR of 24.5%. This is a huge growth because the competition is rising. Also, technology and management software is getting sophisticated by the year.
Fleet management involves vehicle tracking, financing, driver management, diagnostics, among others. It helps businesses eliminate the risks associated with operations, staff costs, and more. Additionally, it reduces the overall running and maintenance costs. It enhances safety, and you’ll find that real-time monitoring and tracking makes things so much easier.
Let’s look at some of the most effective commercial fleet management tips.
1. Have Complete Commercial Fleet Management Program
As a fleet manager, having a well-executed fleet management plan can be a game-changer to the overall management of the fleet. A comprehensive management plan should include everything, from tracking to managing costs, modifying safety rules, buying new trucks and vehicles, and monitoring the fleet.
Your plan should also include key performance indicators, appointing and training drivers, calculating associated risks, and preparing all operations.
2. Keeping Proper Records of All Drivers
Maintaining records is an essential part of fleet management. As a manager, you’re responsible for every nitty-gritty detail of the operation. This includes everything about the drivers, what vehicles or tracks they will be handling, and at what times.
It’s imperative for you to have a log that includes the drivers’ names, and the number of vehicles they are handling. Include the date they have those vehicles, what time they depart, and what time they return.
As much as you may want to have physical records, we highly commend digital records. Back them up in the cloud to prevent any data loss.
Keep records of all mechanical problems you encounter, mileage before and after a shift. Also keep the maintenance history, common shipment routines, and alternate routes as well.
3. Use Advanced Fleet Management Software
The global fleet management software market stands close to $15 billion and is expected to reach $50 billion by 2027.
Having a fleet management system is essential. Tracking and managing everything becomes a walk in the park.
An advanced fleet management software can control all aspects of your operation. It’ll help you adhere to regulatory requirements such as reducing operational costs, improving fleet visibility, and fuel management.
All of these will increase the overall profitability and driver satisfaction. Some of these software programs come with incredible features. You’ll have real-time alerts, delivery times, route optimization, and more. Choose one that seamlessly integrates with your systems.
4. Understand the Importance of Preventative Maintenance
Adequately maintained commercial vehicles reduce downtime and unscheduled repairs. Preventative maintenance could be anything from regular tire rotation and inspection, oil changes, and safety checks.
Regular checks will reduce the chances of breakdowns and meet the overall needs of the company.
5. Hire Qualified Drivers
There are several factors involved in hiring commercial fleet drivers. Check out their accredited medical records certifying that they’re fit to drive commercial vehicles.
They must have valid and appropriate driver’s licenses, be physically fit, mentally capable, and experienced.
They also need to pass alcohol and drug screening, a good driving record, a DOT, and a CDL. Ask for references from previous employers.
6. Offer Training for Your Drivers
Despite past experiences, it’s essential to offer additional training so you can be sure that your specific needs are met.
Commercial drivers must understand everything from keeping time to first aid procedures. Ensure they are sufficiently trained to meet company expectations.
With proper training, you can minimize accident rates, lessen legal issues, and reduce vehicle repair costs.
Also, provide the drivers with safety guidelines that must be followed at all times. Besides that, advise them on what to do in case of emergencies or accidents. Keep them updated regularly on safety and industry trends at all times.
7. Use Tracking Software for Your Commercial Fleet
Commercial fleet management is made easy with GPS tracking software. It’ll show you the exact location of all vehicles at all times. This will essentially lower your operational costs significantly.
When you track your fleet in real-time, your drivers don’t need to keep updating you about their whereabouts. If something happens and the vehicle is stolen, you can also have an easier time finding it.
8. Get Your Fleet Insurance Policies in Order
Having the right fleet insurance policies is essential, and you want to ensure that everything is covered.
Find the right commercial truck insurance policies. Consider having an annual review to assess whether it’s still meeting your current needs. If you add more vehicles to your fleet, ensure they are included accordingly.
9. Take Good Care of the Tires
Tire maintenance is an essential part of commercial fleet management. Tires could derail your shipping times if not well taken care of. Of course, the overall vehicle needs to be maintained.
Tire pressure plays a huge role in the overall driving experience, and tire wear is never the same with all vehicles. Tires can degrade depending on the road surface, weather, and individual driving.
So it’s essential that you have pressure tested before and after trips. This is more important if you have long-haul shipments.
10. Keep Your Fleet Clean
The last thing you want on your record is having a dirty fleet. Cleaning vehicles is also a large part of fleet management. Keeping all the commercial vehicles in your management clean and polished at all times leaves a professional image on your company.
Additionally, it boosts job satisfaction for the drivers. Besides, regular cleaning will help you catch issues like rusting and degradation early. before they snowball into real costly problems.
Fleet Management: An Ounce of Prevention Is Better Than a Pound of Cure
Fleet management doesn’t have to be hard, as long as you have a great fleet management software and incredible drivers. A commercial fleet requires proper maintenance at all times. This way you can avoid shipment delays and customer complaints.
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