Here we have discussed about the tips for fleet manager and its importance which will provide the help to improve the fleet visibility and reduce the transportation cost.
2. INTRODUCTION
The Role of the Fleet Manager in Transportation. In a
logistics company or a transportation company, fleet
managers play a pivotal role. The fleet managers are
responsible for selecting and maintaining vehicles in order
to keep deliveries and distributions on schedule and within
its established budget.
3. STEPS OF FLEET MANAGER IN TRANSPORTATION
Selecting Vehicles
Record Keeping
Maintenance
Driver Management
Profit & Loss
Education and Training
4. SELECTING VEHICLES
The fleet managers make decisions about what kind of
vehicles to purchase and how many. Some companies
buy automobiles outright, others will lease vehicles to
meet the company's needs. When the vehicle is no longer
useful for the fleet, the manager will then market and
resell it to get back as much as the company's investment
as possible.
5. RECORD KEEPING
Fleet managers are responsible for impeccable records.
They both register and license all vehicles and keep
inspections up to date. They keep records to prove that the
fleet company is in compliance with all state and federal
regulations.
6. MAINTENANCE
In order for transportation companies to work properly and
make the necessary profits, vehicles need to be
maintained in peak operating conditions. Fleet managers
set up schedules to ensure each vehicle is kept in top
condition. Larger companies will have their own in-house
service centers with mechanics and specialists to handle
maintenance.
7. DRIVER MANAGEMENT
Fleet managers need excellent people and communication
skills to do their jobs well. Reliable drivers are essential to
keep a company profitable. Poor drivers can be a problem,
causing fines, lawsuits with erratic driving or tickets from
speeding. Many fleet managers use GPS trackers on the
entire fleet to monitor where the vehicles are and drivers'
habits.
8. PROFIT & LOSS
Fleet managers are also important in keeping costs down
and maximizing profits. Most rely on accounting software to
record and collect data. Managers will look for patterns to
see areas where they can cut expenses and reduce
administrative costs.
9. EDUCATION AND TRAINING
To become a fleet manager, you will likely need an
associate's degree and several years experience in the
transportation industry. You will need to be familiar and
proficient with the industry's concepts, practices and
procedures. A bachelor's degree in logistics or accounting
can be especially useful as you move up within the
company.
10. WHO I AM…
Paul Woodward Timmins is the Vice President of
The Bucket Shop Group and a successful
businessman who provides help in fleet
management, onsite services and bucket
manufacturing in Ontario.