Three ways you can save money as a Fleet Manager

Contributed Article

Lowering costs can be challenging, especially when your budget directly influences your operations. Fleet management is a hefty investment regardless of how many vehicles are included in it. Whether it’s filled with big rigs or small delivery cars, many fleet managers spend thousands, so it can seem difficult to build savings. However, it’s far it’s still possible for fleet managers to save money. All it takes is a little advanced planning. Here are three ways you can save money as a fleet manager.

Never Miss Scheduled Maintenance

A huge factor that can impact how much you spend on your fleet is vehicle maintenance. Vehicles within a fleet require more maintenance than the average car. This is especially true if your fleet is loaded with trucks. Trucks, for example, already take a large quantity of gas to be operational. If something is wrong, it’s possible to waste hundreds on gas you’re not even using. Granted, each fleet is different and may not require as much maintenance. After all, a smaller fleet does generally cost less to maintain than a larger one. Compared to the average vehicle, fleet vehicles need to be checked every month. And in some cases, it may even require bi-monthly maintenance. Missing even one scheduled maintenance is risky. Not only to the company but to the vehicles and those who drive them as well.

Install the Necessary Upgrades

Car technology has grown dramatically in recent years. Without these necessary upgrades, fleet management costs would be completely unaffordable. But thankfully, newer models are outfitted with most of the innovative technology to keep the car and its driver safe. However, there are still a few things you must install yourself. One of these includes an electronic logging device (ELD), which is a device installed into the onboard diagnostics of the vehicle. This allows fleet managers to compile a detailed report of everything that vehicle does. From when the car was started to how carefully a turn the driver made, ELDs are among the most important upgrades. In fact, they’re actually mandated in most states.

Another upgrade to install is GPS trackers. These will allow you to effectively manage every vehicle that’s out and about. They also offer trailer tracking solutions that increase margins while simultaneously reducing operating costs. They also allow better utilization of trailers, which can help boost your customer retention by offering them real-time visibility among the fleet. Furthermore, GPS trackers also help prevent theft, which can happen when you least expect it. They also allow you to keep tabs on your drivers and ensure they’re fulfilling their duties.

Planning Out Your Fleet’s Routes

You may think with what was previously talked about, planning out routes isn’t an ideal money saver. However, it’s actually the opposite. Planning out routes for your vehicles helps save on money and mileage, which means more savings and less need for routine maintenance. It also helps improve employee productivity and make your drivers more efficient which leaves customers feeling satisfied with quick delivery.