Fleet managers oversee the entire operation and must keep the team on track. They remain critical to the success, which is why they must understand how to succeed through positive habits. Managers oversee the maintenance and operating costs and hope to increase the overall productivity. All the while, they must reduce the operating costs by finding ways to save money. This is a big job and can be quite rewarding. But due to the nature and pace of the industry, there are definitely some things to know before you decide if this career path will lead you to total fulfillment professionally and personally.
Fleet Tracking
Nowadays, most managers use fleet tracking with real-time GPS software to keep a close eye on drivers. The software can easily aid route navigation and keep the driver on time for deliveries. Most managers use this software in one form or another. The task may sound simple, but when you must keep a close eye on dozens of vehicles or even more, managers must juggle a lot to stay on top of things. Fleet tracking software will improve the overall visibility of the team, and vehicle safety gets better because you can monitor driving habits. The improved productivity can ensure that drivers stay on track for their deliveries.
Electronic Logging Device Compliance
Managers must maintain detailed records of each drivers’ hours of service. This recording through electronic devices ensure that drivers don’t take extra liberties that could lead to fatigue and dangerous road conditions. Ultimately, the mandate hopes to reduce the number of dangerous driving incidents that occur from driver fatigue. The manager must keep accurate records of each driver to ensure compliance. Overall, the issue does carry some positives and negatives. Some drivers dislike the inflexibility of the ELD system, but the overall ease of use and convenience of it has made it easier. Keep in mind, only some teams will require logging with the ELD.
Weeding out Unnecessary Costs
The managers play an essential role in cutting down on costs because they track the fleet to ensure no unnecessary costs. Some of the things that they might do to lower costs include overseeing driver routes and creating a fuel efficiency program. They also perform asset tracking. The manager must keep an eye on the fleet and improve driver productivity to maximize profits. They can also put a stop to aggressive driving when drivers act recklessly on the road. Modifying driver behavior for great profitability is one of the key goals. The manager oversees the technology to search for ways that the business can save money. An ever-increasing number of tools have been put in the hands of managers.
Good Vehicle Acquisition
Strong management requires that the manager understand when new vehicles are needed and when they will go to waste. The idea may sound straightforward, but you can easily make an unskillful acquisition where you lose money because you can’t fully put the vehicle to good use. Some of the other things that you will need to do include understanding the lifecycle of each vehicle, employee eligibility for vehicle class and market timing for acquisitions. Everything should be done strategically to ensure the overall health of your business. Purchasing new vehicles requires careful consideration of multiple factors to ensure that it does not drag down the business.
