One of the most important aspects of a well-managed fleet is the ability to offset the always increasing cost of keeping trucks on the road. Some of the top fleet managers integrate practices that can actually reduce the cost of operation even with complex fleet operations.
Sharing ideas at conferences and training and staying on top of research and development in the field of fleet operations is helpful. However, it is important to realize that not all practices are equally effective, or even necessarily helpful, in all locations. This is particularly true with global fleets where what will work in one country and with one set of drivers may not work at all with another.
Incentivize Success
Adding a bit of friendly competition for in-house technicians and maintenance staff can be a helpful way to generate high levels of productivity. Using computer software to track work completed, tests or maintenance performed and other tasks allow for easy monitoring of the program.
This is also a great way to discover which staff are more proficient at different jobs. In turn, this can provide for the more effective assignment of mechanics, technicians or other staff with duties where they excel.
Becoming More Precise
Keeping accurate records, checking in with drivers and inspecting vehicles on a regular basis allows the fleet operations team to develop a more precise understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the current vehicles in the fleet.
By knowing exactly where a problem is with a current fleet vehicle, it is easier to choose an alternative vehicle in the replacement cycle that will address those weaknesses without also giving up the strengths. This simple process allows the fleet managers to constantly improve on the vehicles resulting in lower costs, higher efficiency, and even better driver retention.