Fleet management is a challenging job, but it’s not impossible. If you feel like you’re up to the task of becoming a fleet manager, you’re already on the right track. Though, you might run into a few bumps on the road, but that’s why we’re here. We’ve created this guide to help newcomers become the best fleet manager around.
Hone Your Skills
Every fleet manager will need to have certain skills to effectively handle this job. Again, managing a fleet isn’t easy as you’ll be not only keeping tabs on the vehicles, but you’ll also oversee the drivers themselves and you must be always on the ball. Here’s a list of skills that all fleet managers need to have:
- Time management
- Being able to multi-task
- Practicing patience
- Effective communication
- Being a leader
- Resolving conflict
With these management skills under your seatbelt, you’ll be able to handle any situation that comes your way.
Ensure Each Vehicle is Properly Equipped
Before the vehicles of a company’s fleet can legally operate, they must first be equipped with the proper technology and software. Starting off, every vehicle within a fleet must have an electronic logging device (ELD). This piece of fleet technology is mandated by the DOT. It’s connected to the onboard diagnostics of the vehicle, which is very similar to the motherboard of a computer. The onboard diagnostics houses all the data relating to the vehicle. The ELD records this data, which includes when the vehicle was turned on, how long it’s been operated and even what kind of turn it took at a certain period.
The next important technology you need is GPS tracking systems. GPS can single-handedly make your job as a fleet manager easier. It’s what allows you to track where every vehicle currently is. With a greater insight into each driver’s location, you can help save time and money. Wireless dash cams are an optional, but beneficial piece of fleet technology. These are small cameras that fit onto the dashboard of a vehicle. When turned on, it records the entire journey of the drivers. They have an amazing storage capacity despite their size, and it gives you easy access to video footage. There are all types of dash cam models to choose from, so make sure to review a detailed guide that covers the differences between wired and wireless dash cams.
Keep Digital Records, Not Physical
One of the aspects that made fleet management so difficult is keeping an accurate record of everything. This is because you had to keep physical records and organize them manually. Fortunately, we live in the digital age where you can find out what damage was done to a car, instantly, because keeping track of everything is so much easier. Rather than waste paper and clog up a file cabinet, you can keep track of everything digitally. Using a platform such as Google Tasks or Microsoft To Do automatically organize every record you have, so you don’t have to waste time sorting through them.
Always Listen to the Drivers
The drivers are the most important part of a fleet. That said, their opinion is absolutely critical to keeping the fleet under control. Being a fleet manager means you’re also managing the drivers. As such, you must be open to their ideas and feedback. Actively listening to the drivers and incorporating their feedback into the fleet operations can help establish loyalty and trust.
Get Routine Maintenance
If there’s one thing fleet managers need to get used to, it’s frequently acquiring maintenance for the vehicles. Fleet vehicles see plenty of use and rack up mileage faster than the average vehicle. This can lead to faster wear and tear and other potential issues. You must have routine maintenance once every month or two to keep the fleet in tip top shape.