Small fleets get big rewards with these telematics tips.
One of the most common myths we here at GPS to GO have to dispel is the notion that GPS tracking and fleet optimization are only suitable for large carriers or fleets. However, most fleet managers are happy to know that small fleets can also use telematics to achieve higher performance and find cost savings.
When you hear the word “fleet management”, it might bring to mind entire yards full of trucks or taxis. Many businesses with only a handful of vehicles engage in fleet management every day. We define small fleets as those consisting of 15 vehicles or less.
In some cases, the benefits of telematics are even magnified for small fleets due to the proportion of the effect being realized.
Here are some of the top advantages of using telematics for small fleets:
- Gain visibility into fleet operations and trends
- Manage fuel efficiency and reduce waste or fraud
- Optimize routes and vehicle use
- Reduce idling time
- Increase driver safety
Here are some tips small fleet managers or business owners can use to get the most from telematics:
Tip #1: Customize your platform
Setting up custom dashboard reports lets you dictate which information makes it onto the front page. It reduces visual clutter and lets you focus on key information. You can review fleet activities quickly and cut down on navigation time — which is particularly important for part-time fleet managers.
Tip #2: Simplify fuel tracking with emailed reports
Telematics-based fuel usage reports make it possible to track and compare fuel consumption across vehicles. By finding and investigating outliers, you can track down and correct the inefficiency, such as maintenance issues, excessive idling, driving habits, etc. If you implement policies meant to reduce fuel waste, fuel trend reports will make it easy to monitor monthly usage rates.
Fill-up reports let you monitor when and where fleet vehicles are refueled and compare this information to fuel card data to protect against fraud.
Tip #3: Optimize your routes
In addition to the routing supports available through MyGeotab, the Geotab Marketplace contains several custom solutions that can be used to further enhance route-planning. These software Add-Ins offer dedicated tools for analyzing and planning routes and dispatching drivers.
Tip #4: Perform risk management
One of the weaknesses of small fleets is that individual vehicles represent larger chunks of the business. Losing even a single vehicle can cause significant drops in overall productivity. Managing risky driving behavior before it results in a collision is therefore a high priority.
MyGeotab helps fleets track risky driving habits through customizable rulesets. These create thresholds for speeding, harsh braking, harsh cornering, and other dangerous behaviors so you can identify drivers in need of coaching.
Geotab’s fleet management solutions show how even little differences can have a big impact on small fleets. If you would like to speak with our team and start reaping the rewards and benefits telematics can provide your business, click on this link to set up a time to learn more.
