The countdown to the summer holidays is on, and fleet managers are feeling the pressure to meet end-of-year deadlines. The end of the year can be stressful for businesses and vehicle health often gets overlooked. However, with proper planning, you can avoid costly breakdowns and delays, ensuring your team gets back on track quickly in the new year.
We’ve put together a short checklist covering the basics to help keep your fleet in top shape as we head into the busy holiday period.
Pre-Holiday Checklist for Fleet Managers and Drivers
Vehicle Maintenance Checks
Now is the time to ensure all vehicles undergo routine inspections before the holiday rush. Encourage your drivers to check tyres for wear and tear, inspect brakes and top up essential fluids like oil, coolant and windshield washer. A tool that simplifies this process is the Argus Tracking Digital Check Sheet App, making it easier to stay on top of regular maintenance. Taking these steps now can prevent costly vehicle downtime when your fleet is needed the most.
Monitor Driver Behaviour
During the holiday season, increased road traffic leads to heightened urgency, with drivers often showing less patience and care. This makes driver safety more critical than ever. With a fleet management platform like Argus Tracking, you can monitor driver behaviour in real-time, identifying issues such as speeding and unsafe driving habits. This proactive approach helps keep your fleet and drivers safe during the hectic holiday period.
Fuel Efficiency
With the rush to complete jobs and drivers using company vehicles for personal trips during the holiday season, increased mileage often leads to higher fuel consumption. By utilising a fuel reporting suite like Argus Tracking’s Fuel Watch, you can proactively optimise fuel usage and identify cost-cutting opportunities. For example, you can send employees to jobs closer to their location and analyse which drivers have the highest mileage and fuel consumption.
Prepare for Emergencies
Now is the time to equip your drivers with emergency kits that include basic tools, first-aid suppliers and phone chargers. If they already have kits, conduct an audit to ensure everything is replenished and replace any expired or damaged items. Additionally, ensure drivers are familiar with the quickest routes to service centers or petrol stations in case of emergencies.
Stay Ahead this Holiday Season
By taking these simple steps, you’ll ensure your fleet is ready to handle the holiday season. For more tips on keeping your fleet safe and efficient, talk to us about Argus Tracking’s advanced fleet management solutions.