Managing a fleet
can be a difficult task for many. You have to ensure your drivers and vehicles
are productive on the roads so that you can meet the target of your
organisation. Maintaining your vehicles on a regular basis will help ensure
they are in the perfect shape. Performing oil changes, tire inspections and
regular safety checks are some of the essential practices.
You should also
monitor your drivers and ensure they maintain proper road discipline. Fleet
management has been made easier because there are different devices managers
can use to track their vehicles and also make sure everything is okay. Others
help promote safety on the roads by alerting drivers whenever they are speeding
or when an obstacle is detected.
EyeRide
has some of the best devices you can use to monitor and manage your fleet of
vehicles. Fuel usually makes up a higher percentage of the operational costs of
a particular fleet. At times, you may find yourself overspending if you are not
careful. Several strategies can be applied to promote proper fuel management
for a specific fleet. They include the following tips.
Buying Fuel
This may depend on
the size of the fleet you own. Those who have a large fleet size are advised to
purchase fuel in wholesale because this will enable them to save a lot.
Companies that own a small fleet can buy from the pump or make use of their
fuel cards. The good thing about using fuel cards is that they help reduce the
chances of fraud, and fleet managers will have the right information, which
they can use to make improvements to their fleet’s performance. You will also
get more discounts on fuel prices.
Type of Vehicle
The other thing you
need to look out for is the type of vehicle you are buying for your fleet. Some
vehicles are commonly referred to as “fuel guzzlers” because of the amount of
fuel they consume. You may spend more than necessary on fuel if you purchase
this type of vehicle. The most important thing you need to look out for when
purchasing new vehicles for your fleet is their fuel consumption. Look at the
miles per gallon consumption of a specific vehicle to understand the amount of
fuel it will use.
Driving Habits
The manner in which
a driver operates your vehicle can affect fuel consumption. Poor driving habits
will increase fuel costs. Make sure your drivers have the right training that
will lead them to observe habits that encourage proper fuel use. How they
operate the vehicles, plan routes and drive will help reduce fuel costs in your
fleet.
Route Planning
This is another
practice that promotes proper utilisation of fuel. Your drivers should plan
their routes, or you can advise them as a fleet manager. As a driver, you can
choose a route that is experiencing minimal traffic. A route that has poor
roads may also cause you to consume too much fuel. To save more on fuel costs,
analyse the condition of the routes under consideration.
