If your company has decided to manage a fleet of vehicles to help you serve your customers better, then you’re going to want to read this.
Managing a fleet of vehicles is no easy task. You may think there isn’t much to it other than sending off your employee to make a call and do business. It’s so much more than that!
Not only do you have to maintain the vehicles in your fleet, but you also have to make sure the fleet is cost efficient and that you can trust your drivers to take care of the vehicle.
Below, you’ll find four essential tips to manage a successful company fleet.
1. Integrate a Complete Fleet System
There are many platforms and software out there to help you manage your fleet. Some of these programs allow you to track your drivers’ location and even the speed at which they’re driving. They will track the mileage of each vehicle, the last routine maintenance, and more.
It’s important to have a management system in place to keep your company’s fleet organized and running smoothly. From maintenance requests to keeping track of invoices for gas, a management system makes it so much easier to maintain a fleet.
Whip Around is one platform companies especially enjoy using because it offers seamless communication between managers, drivers, and mechanics.
2. Find a Trustworthy Mechanic
Depending on the size of your fleet, you may want to consider hiring a full-time mechanic to look after your vehicles. He will always be on call for any type of repair or maintenance one of your vehicles may need.
If this isn’t in your budget, it’s essential to find a trustworthy mechanic. We all know the stereotype of mechanics ripping us off and charging much more than the work actually costs.
Also, to avoid overpaying for repairs, you may want to consider hiring someone part-time for the DIY repairs. Something as simple as replacing a light with a Ford F150 interior light kit can be done in house and without paying an arm and a leg for the labor.
3. Perform Routine Maintenance Inspections
Your company’s fleet is only as good as the vehicles that make it. If you do not properly maintain the condition of your vehicles, you could find yourself spending too much on repairs and even replacement vehicles.
To avoid this, you should perform routine maintenance inspections. This means checking the tires, brake lights, battery, and more. These inspections will identify any underlying problems that should be fixed before they become serious and costly.
4. Designate a Fleet Manager
Hiring a dedicated fleet manager will take the stress out of having a fleet of vehicles for your company. As we mentioned before, it takes a lot of work and energy to manage a company fleet. Having someone who only focuses on managing and maintaining the fleet is essential.
This person will know the drivers, vehicles, and mechanics well and should be an expert in the fleet management system your company uses. They will be the go-to person for anything concerning your company’s vehicles so you can focus on other important aspects of your business.
