Fleet management can be a difficult and stressful task, especially if you are not prepared for it. In this article, we will discuss some tips on how to make fleet management easier and less stressful. By following these simple tips, you can streamline the process and avoid any unnecessary headaches!
Utilize Camera Supervision
Installing supervision inside the vehicles is the first thing fleet managers should think about. Many companies tend to get a dash cam for a truck as it helps to know what happened during an accident. A regular cam will do the job in most cases, but there are also thermal cameras that can see in the dark and provide extra security.
By utilizing camera supervision, fleet managers can have a better idea of not only what happened during an accident, but also how their drivers are behaving on the road. This can be especially useful for companies that want to make sure their drivers are following safety protocols.
Not only does camera footage help with accidents, but it can also be used to monitor driver behavior.
Use GPS Trackers
Knowing the exact location of your vehicles at all times can be a huge weight off of your shoulders. A GPS tracker is a small, affordable device that you can put in each car. There are many different types and brands of GPS trackers, but they all work similarly.
Each time the car moves, the tracker will send an updated location to your phone or computer. You can even set up alerts so that you’re notified if a vehicle goes outside of a certain area. This is great for keeping track of company cars or delivery vehicles.
If you have employees who use their own cars for work purposes, GPS tracking can also help you keep tabs on them. You can make sure they’re taking the most efficient route and see if they’re making any side trips. This can save you time and money.
Maintain Constant Communication
Make sure that you’re always in touch with your fleet. This way, you can monitor their whereabouts and be aware of any changes in their schedule. You can use a variety of methods to stay in touch, including GPS tracking devices, two-way radios, and cell phones.
By keeping tabs on your fleet, you can avoid potential problems and keep everything running smoothly. There are a number of ways to maintain communication with your fleet, so find the method that works best for you and stick with it. Your fleet will thank you for it!
Create A Driver Checklist
You should make a list of things every driver needs to know and do. These are the following:
- How to inspect the vehicle before driving
- How to properly operate the vehicle
- What is the company’s policy on cell phone use while driving
- How to fill out the paperwork correctly
- Where to find information on routes and destinations
- How are emergency procedures handled
- Who do you contact if there is a problem with the vehicle?
This list will help ensure that every driver is on the same page and knows what is expected of them. It will also help you keep track of who has been trained on what. If you have new drivers, you can go over this checklist with them to make sure they understand everything.
Have Strong Policies
It’s essential to set certain rules and parameters for your fleet as having a well-managed fleet can be the difference between a successful business and one that quickly crumbles. While it might seem like more work to have stricter policies, in the long run, it will save you time, money, and stress.
Be sure to communicate these policies to everyone who is involved with the fleet so that there are no surprises down the road. Having strong policies in place will help make managing your fleet easier and less stressful.
For example, one policy could be that drivers must complete a pre-trip inspection before taking the vehicle out on the road.
Optimize The Schedules
A well-crafted schedule goes a long way in optimizing fleet management. By optimizing the schedules, you can make better use of your resources and minimize downtime. This, in turn, will lead to improved efficiency and productivity.
For example, let’s say you have a fleet of delivery trucks. By optimizing the schedules, you can ensure that the trucks are utilized to their fullest potential and that there are no gaps in coverage. This will result in more efficient deliveries and fewer delays.
Managing your fleet is essential for running a business smoothly, so dash cams should be installed in each vehicle. Make sure to also have GPS trackers and maintain constant communication with your drivers. Create a checklist every worker needs to uphold and make sure they respect your policies. Finally, optimize the schedules so that there’s never confusion and everyone is in their place on time!