In times of rising costs, fleet businesses must focus on the long-term, with a strategic plan to streamline operations. But equally important is identifying the small activities and savings that can significantly impact operating costs, productivity, and profit.

Are you focusing on areas that can cut costs and increase efficiency?

Control the controllable

We can’t influence the cost of fuel or cut fixed costs, but there are actions that every fleet operator can take to make operations more efficient. Small activities such as checking tyre pressure each day can affect fuel consumption and wear. Regularly checking fluids and inspecting vehicles for damage can reduce downtime.

Controlling the controllable can help any fleet of any size cut costs and increase efficiency. Here are eight things you can do daily to save your business money.

Regular vehicle inspections

Daily vehicle inspections can help identify minor issues before they become major problems. For example, checking tyre pressure, fluid levels, brake functionality, and other critical aspects can prevent unexpected breakdowns, save on costly repairs, and ensure vehicles are always ready for the road.

 

1. Keeping tyres properly inflated

Ensuring all fleet vehicle tyres are properly inflated is a simple task that can yield significant savings. Underinflated tyres can lead to increased fuel consumption and faster wear, which can be costly. Regular tyre pressure checks should be part of every pre-trip inspection. The bigger your fleet, the more significant the impact and savings.

 

2.  Keep to service schedules. 

Regular servicing of all fleet vehicles helps to keep them in top condition, reducing the likelihood of costly breakdowns. In addition, scheduling services proactively can minimise vehicle downtime and extend their lifespan.

 

3. Minimise idle time

Influencing driver behaviour is essential to optimising efficiency. Encouraging drivers to minimise vehicle idling can result in significant fuel savings. Engines should be switched off when waiting, loading, unloading, and during breaks. This simple habit can drastically reduce fuel consumption across the fleet. One great tip is to add a sticker inside every cab to remind drivers to switch off the engine!

 

4. Encouraging efficient driving habits

Promote efficient driving habits among your drivers on a day-to-day basis. This includes avoiding aggressive driving, maintaining a steady speed, and reducing unnecessary braking. These simple things can reduce fuel consumption, limit vehicle wear and tear, and improve driving conditions.

 

5. Regularly Reviewing Vehicle Usage

Daily or weekly vehicle usage reviews can help identify underutilised or overworked vehicles. In addition, regularly rotating vehicles in high demand can prevent excessive wear and tear on individual units, extending their usable life.

 

6. Implementing a daily safety protocol

Daily safety checks and procedures can reduce the risk of accidents, leading to expensive repairs, insurance claims, and downtime. This includes checking lights, and indicators, ensuring loads are secure, and checking that all safety equipment is in place and functional.

 

7. Analyse data

Regularly reviewing data on vehicle usage, fuel consumption, and maintenance can help identify patterns and areas for improvement. Accurate record-keeping is vital for spotting trends, tracking costs, and making informed decisions about the fleet, including when to service, repair, or dispose of vehicles. Holman’s fleet management services and solutions provide detailed data and real-time insights to help you optimise fleet operations.