As fuel costs continued to rise, fleet management has become more challenging to many businesses.
Business owners tend to reduce the fleet management budget to help balance the total budget of the company. However, if handled inadequately, cost cutting in fleet management might have a negative effect on customer service. Fleet managers must find ways to manage the business’ fleet costs without sacrificing the customers’ needs, as well as the long-term quality of the operation.
Here are some strategies for efficient fleet cost cutting:
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Trim Down the Parts Inventory
Same-day delivery of parts is now accessible. Hence, fleet managers must refrain from storing vehicle parts. In the event that keeping an inventory of parts is required, experts advise managers to only stock auto parts that are regularly used.
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Automate Business Processes
By transitioning to a streamlined software system, many fleets can lower their costs. A software system can automatically alert fleet managers and drivers about covered vehicle maintenance and repairs. The company can avoid losses due to missed repairs.
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Do a Preventive Maintenance
Another way to prevent unnecessary and costly repairs is to design a preventive maintenance program. Make sure that there is a regular assessment of the fleet’s tires, engines, cooling and electrical systems. Another major enemy of most used vehicles is rust. According to Euro-Blast NZ Ltd, metals that do not have prime treatment are susceptible to moisture and other elements that could cause corrosion. Thus, never forget prime and topcoat application when repainting or restoring a vehicle.
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Consider Outsourcing Several Fleet Management Functions
When done appropriately, outsourcing few functions can help the company save resources. Companies can tap external parties that are prominent to be efficient in functions like parts management and vehicle telematics. That way, in-house fleet management can focus on functions wherein they can be more effective.
Fleet managers must accept the fact that economic conditions are continuously shifting, and the quality of the business’ fleet heavily relies on their ability to adjust to these changes.
