Are you running a commercial fleet? Are you managing one, but you’re still struggling to run it properly?
Managing a large commercial fleet is no easy task. To do it well, you need to be paying attention to even the smallest details — and the consequences of even one oversight can be significant.
However, even well-intentioned fleet managers often commit some common commercial fleet management errors — many of which are avoidable. To help, we’ve created this short guide.
Not sure where to begin? Keep reading to find out.
Contents
1. Not Planning Routes the Right Way
One of the commercial fleet management errors is failing to plan routes. This can lead to several problems, including increased fuel costs, missed appointments, and frustrated drivers.
To avoid this error, fleet managers should use route planning software to map out the most efficient routes for their drivers. This will help save time and money while ensuring drivers can get where they need to go.
2. Not Tracking Mileage or Fuel Usage
Failing to track the mileage or fuel usage of your fleet will take a big hit on your bottom line. This can lead to significant financial losses and inefficiencies.
To avoid this, fleet managers should make sure to track both mileage and fuel usage for all vehicles and work trucks in the fleet. This can be done using GPS tracking devices, fleet management software, and manual tracking methods.
By tracking this information, fleet managers can make more informed decisions about vehicle maintenance, routing, and other factors.
3. Not Scheduling Regular Vehicle Maintenance
One of the biggest fleet management errors is not scheduling regular vehicle maintenance. This can lead to costly repairs down the road and decreased productivity.
To avoid this, create a maintenance schedule for your fleet and stick to it. Inspect your vehicles regularly and perform any necessary repairs or maintenance immediately.
You can avoid costly downtime and keep your fleet running smoothly by keeping up with a regular fleet maintenance routine.
4. Not Keeping Up With Driver Compliance
There are a few different things that can happen if you don’t keep up with driver compliance.
One, your drivers may not have the proper licenses or training needed to operate your vehicles. Two, you could be held liable if one of your drivers gets into an accident.
Three, you may not be able to get insurance for your fleet if you’re not in compliance. To avoid these problems, it’s important to stay up to date on all of the requirements for your drivers and your vehicles.
You can do this by regularly checking the laws and regulations, as well as keeping track of your driver’s licenses and training.
5. Not Having Adequate Insurance Coverage
Commercial fleet management errors can be costly and time-consuming to fix. One common mistake is not having adequate insurance coverage.
This can open the company to lawsuits and financial ruin if a fleet vehicle is involved in an accident. Review your insurance policy regularly and update it as needed to ensure adequate coverage.
Quickly Resolved Commercial Fleet Management Errors
It’s important for commercial fleet managers to avoid making common mistakes in order to keep their business running smoothly.
Some common errors include not planning routes the right way, not tracking mileage or fuel usage, not keeping up with driver compliance, and not having adequate insurance coverage.
By taking the time to avoid these errors, commercial fleet managers can ensure that their business runs smoothly and efficiently.
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