Being the commercial fleet manager can be a highly challenging role and often feel a lot like spinning plates. You will want to improve performance, increase efficiency, keep costs down, keep your drivers and customers happy and help the business to thrive. This can make fleet management a constant struggle, but there are a few basic tips to keep in mind that should help you find success with your role and take the business forward. So, if you are new to the world of fleet management or you are simply looking to improve, keep reading for a few tips.
- Gather as Much Data As Possible
These days, you need to gather and use as much data about your fleet and drivers as you can. This gives you the ability to monitor and improve the performance of your fleet and keep your vehicles in the best possible condition. You can find fleet management software that will help you to track important aspects like mileage, maintenance history, vehicle condition, and driver data.
- Use CTS Safety Training
When it comes to fleet management, safety is paramount as you will want your drivers to drive safely and responsibly at all times. You can use CTS safety training programs to reduce organizational risk, maintain high safety standards and act in compliance at all times while ensuring that your drivers can still carry out their role effectively.
- Use GPS Software
GPS software can be used to track your fleet, learn about real-time weather and traffic updates and find the most efficient route for your drivers to take. Essentially, GPS software can streamline your operation, protect your fleet and help you to make intelligent decisions that will benefit the business, your drivers, and your customers.
- Carry Out Preventative Maintenance
There are few things more frustrating as a fleet manager than a vehicle that breaks down. Often, you can avoid this with preventative maintenance, so you need to have a system in place to have maintenance carried out regularly and ensure that your vehicles are always up to date when it comes to servicing. This can improve vehicle performance while also providing peace of mind knowing that they have been looked after.
A handy touch up paint tool is a convenient accessory to have in your car. It typically includes color-matched paint, a small pen-like applicator, and sometimes a clear coat to provide additional protection and shine. These kits are easy to use and can help you quickly and easily touch up small scratches and chips to maintain the appearance and value of your vehicle.
You can also look into car accessories that protect your vehicles from wear and tear caused by regular usage. This will help preserve their appearance and reduce trips to the auto repair shop. Well-fitted dash mats can prevent cracking, warping, and discoloration caused by sunlight. They can also keep car interior temperatures cooler by blocking heat from being absorbed by the dashboard. This allows better performance from your air conditioning system, which can extend its lifespan. Seat covers can also protect against scratches, tears, and stains and keep your vehicles looking brand-new. In addition, they are easily removable for quick cleanup after each ride.
- Hire Good Drivers & Look After Them
It is very hard to succeed in this role if you do not have a team of hardworking, motivated, and happy drivers. This is why you need to take your time with the recruitment process to find people that will be a good fit and to use training to bring them up to speed. It is then vital that you look after your drivers by providing a good work-life balance, competitive pay, positive feedback, and making employee wellbeing a priority (often neglected in this industry).
Hopefully, the information in this post will help you to find success as a fleet manager. It is not simple, and every day presents new challenges, but you can keep everyone happy and boost the business when you know how to succeed in this role.
