Are you a fleet business owner looking for ways to streamline operations and get the most out of your fleet? We have a few tips for optimizing your fleet operations that are guaranteed to help you become a better fleet coordinator.
We know how hectic the role of a fleet manager is. There are always so many things you need to think about with fleet management – including managing your expenditure, maintaining vehicles, maximizing productivity, and keeping your drivers happy. The list could go on.
That’s why we recommend you always look to improve your own fleet management style and processes. It’s the secret to success – so don’t be afraid of making necessary changes. Your profit margins will thank you in the long run.
Running a fleet business successfully requires top-notch management on your behalf, so here’s the best fleet management practices that all business owners should follow. Effortless fleet coordination is coming your way!
1. Think About Digitizing Your Fleet Operations
Technology has been an immense driving force behind the success of modern companies. Digitized data, operations and administration have created new opportunities for efficiency for all businesses – fleet management included. So if you need a solution for your disorganized files and folders, or want to simplify your time-consuming processes – technology is your answer.
Innovative companies like Ridecell, can help digitize your fleet operations with a super manageable, easy-to-use platform. By utilizing their IoT, you can streamline your entire fleet operations – all in one place. You’ll benefit from super handy automation features like automatic distribution of vehicle keys. Plus, you’ll receive invaluable insight reports from automated monitoring systems that will allow you to capitalize on any new opportunities to reach new levels of productivity and efficiency.
Check out what else their systems can offer.
2. Set out strong policies
Clear and strong policies will help avoid any confusion between drivers and internal teams. Make sure there’s a central procedural system that everyone has to follow, without fail. That way, you can minimize confusion and miscommunication and ensure that everyone is on the same page – be it workflows or customer service policies.
This system should be continuously monitored and reviewed too – that way you’re always on the look-out for ways of improving the things you do. It’s all about maximizing productivity and efficiency.
3. Keep Your Drivers Satisfied
Your drivers are a huge asset to any fleet manager – so they need to be satisfied at all times. It’s important as the coordinator of your fleet that you do all you can to be a personable and approachable manager, who values open and honest communication. Build authentic and trusting relationships and treat your workforce with respect.
Monitoring driver performance is a vital part of ensuring that your fleet is working at optimum capacity, but no one likes a micro-manager. So give autonomy to your drivers where you can and show them that they are an important part of the team.
4. Reduce Mileage Wherever Possible
One of the most costly areas for any fleet business is going to be fuel and energy consumption. And the biggest culprit of that is mileage. It’s an inevitable resource your business has to use, but you can also cut costs by reducing your mileage, wherever possible. Smart systems like the ones we’ve already discussed can calculate the most efficient routes for your fleet and ensure no extra miles are wasted.
Deploying fuel-efficient vehicles is another great way to do this. If you can afford it, invest in the eco-friendly options out there on the market. You’ll save money in the long run – especially with the looming 2030 net-zero change-up to the sale of diesel/petrol vehicles.
Prepare your business by becoming sustainable now.
5. Get the Right Fleet Size
Owning too many vehicles can actually be a detriment to your business. There’s no point owning 40 vehicles and only ever using 32 – because those last eight will only cost your business even if they never leave your lot. You should only have as many vehicles as you need – no more, no less. Find the optimum fleet size for your current fleet workload by looking at your demand and reviewing workflows – that way you can cut unnecessary costs. Just make sure you have the capacity to accommodate any downtime, or a sudden increase in business.
Remember, your vehicles are your biggest asset, so stay on top of vehicle maintenance by scheduling regular inspections, checks, and servicing. The biggest cost to your fleet will be if they sustain damage due to poor maintenance.
These tips will help you to manage your fleet with ease and make sure that you get the most out of it. More importantly, it’ll keep everyone happy – from customers to drivers to CEOs.
