Every vehicle owner in the world knows that they cost you money now and then.
They must be maintained, parts fail and need to be replaced, and accidents happen.
If you’re a fleet owner, this is multiplied, not just by the number of vehicles you operate, but the fact that they tend to be on the road a lot more than private vehicles, and more up time means more wear and tear, and more unforeseen events.
Technology can help in many ways.
Predicting Trouble
One of the best money management tips is staying ahead of potential issues and preparing as needed.
With a cutting-edge fleet management system, you have software that is constantly monitoring your vehicles, and if it’s set up intelligently, it knows things you don’t.
On a particular model, a part is likely to malfunction after this particular period of time.
So, you can pre-empt the issue and any knock-on effects, be they mechanical or a matter of the vehicle being off the road and therefore not earning its keep.
Keeping an Eye on Things When the Vehicle is Out
You’ve got a job that involves a destination, a cargo, and a driver.
Taking the optimum route is a way to save on fuel costs, wear and tear, and time.
If you know for a fact the driver didn’t use the best route, you can discuss it with them and ensure they do so next time.
If there is a good reason for not taking that route, you’ll have that information for future reference.
Something to Consider: Electric Vehicles
We all know electric vehicles are the future, or at least the immediate future, but they are currently more common in domestic circles than commercial ones.
This is nonsensical, because if EVs can save on fuels costs as well as being better for the environment, why aren’t fleet owners taking advantage?
There’s a third consideration: image.
A company that is seen to be contributing to ecological matters through its choice of vehicles is perceived as responsible and forward thinking. So, it’s a win-win.
If you already have some electric vehicles, you should keep an eye on new developments to optimize your EV range.
Improved chargers, more of them being in your area, and the cost of having your own charging station installed or upgraded: the EV landscape is still evolving and it’s important to keep up with it.
Shopping Around
You don’t have to have specialist software to save money: the internet is a huge tool, and it’s free.
Everything from finding out where fuel is cheap and checking out the best repair shops to finding the best deal for a new vehicle can be done online (and then get your fleet management system).
Dash Cam Help and Proof
If a vehicle is on the road a lot, statistically it is going to be involved in more incidents than if it was safely back at base.
But with a good dash cam, it is possible to feed the driver information they wouldn’t have access to on their own, info that just might help them avoid a collision.
That is in addition to the more obvious use of the dash cam: proving what really happened when trouble does strike and everybody’s saying it was somebody else’s fault.
Insurance companies are part of this equation, and if your cam shows conclusively your driver wasn’t to blame, you can collect the payout for which you pay premiums and keep your future premiums down.
Streamlining Communication and Saving Costs: The Advantages of a Small Business Phone Line for Logistics Businesses
A small business phone line can be a game-changer for a logistics company looking to optimize its operations while saving costs.
One of the primary reasons is its ability to streamline communication, a crucial element in logistics.
A dedicated small business phone line ensures that all incoming and outgoing calls are centralized, minimizing the chances of missing important communication from clients, partners, or team members.
Furthermore, features such as call forwarding, call waiting, voicemail, and automated attendants contribute to a professional image, enhancing the company’s reputation.
Moreover, many business phone line providers offer competitive pricing models, including unlimited calling options, which can significantly cut down on telecommunication expenses.
When it comes to international logistics, some providers also offer reduced rates for overseas calls, creating additional opportunities for cost savings.
Thus, by enhancing efficiency and offering cost-effective communication solutions, a small business phone line can be a significant boon for a logistics business.