Dealing in product delivery can be a problematic and stressful experience, which is why many businesses work towards incorporating a drop shipping model. However, this means that you have to rely on others, and as an efficient and effective business, you want to keep your reliance on others to a minimum. This is why it can be best to go it alone and keep an independent fleet that can better cater to your needs. The following are five ways you can effectively manage such a fleet and keep your products flowing.
Fleet Productivity
Your fleet being productive is your number one priority. If it’s not productive then you are wasting time and money and it will lead to customer dissatisfaction that will prove detrimental to your business. By installing GPS tracking, you will be provided with real-time business insights. You will be able to adapt on the go to changing road conditions, keeping your fleet moving and making your fleet manager’s job easier. These systems are essential to a smooth, effective fleet management operation.
City Structure
You may feel that you know the area you are working in like the back of your hand, but it is still worth assessing if the routes your drivers are using are the quickest and most efficient. If that means changing things, then so be it, it will ultimately be best for your business and your customers. Look at the routes you are currently using and evaluate them against other possible routes and see if they may be quicker, more fuel efficient, or cut out unnecessary stops in traffic.
Compliance
This is essential if you want to save your business from not only unnecessary costs but problems with the law. Ensure all your drivers and vehicles are fully compliant and roadworthy should any questions be raised. You can prove they are so. Using telematics will allow your drivers to know exactly how many hours they have worked and can keep within legal restrictions on working hours. It will also make your fleet manager’s job easier.
Inspect the Fleet Regularly
Before your fleet leaves each morning, have them checked over to make sure any problems are immediately made known. Having tires ready to be replaced will keep your fleet moving and save lost time and possibly lost customers due to delays. You must make it clear to your drivers and fleet manager or managers how essential this process is, otherwise it will lead to sloppiness on their part and you having to pay fines and losing part of your fleet due to laziness.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Anything can happen at any given time and being aware of that is one of the best pieces of advice you can have when it comes to fleet management. While you can’t predict exactly what might happen, you can still be prepared for most eventualities. Having this preparedness will keep your fleet moving and keep your customers happy. Taking the time to assess as many possible risks and potential problems in your operation will keep everything running as smooth as possible.