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2 min read Q&A

Fleet Management: 'Invest in training... It pays for itself'

Effective fleet management in construction requires the right equipment, proper training, and proactive maintenance—saving money, reducing risks, and maximizing ROI.
Fleet Management: 'Invest in training... It pays for itself'
Photo by Markus Winkler / Unsplash
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By Margot Lester | for The Level

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Proper management of your construction fleet boosts safety and ROI for your vehicles. But is your company dedicating enough resources and strategy to making the most of your fleet? Dale Collins, a certified automotive fleet manager and a NAFA Fleet Management Association member, spoke with The Level about the value of tighter fleet management in construction.

 What are some common fleet management mistakes you've noticed?

Over-buying or under-buying. I’ve seen equipment asked to perform tasks well beyond the design capabilities resulting in failures and unsafe situations, and larger-than-necessary equipment being just overkill for a particular job and not utilized enough to justify owning it.

Also, be sure folks using your fleet assets understand how they work and are competent using it. invest in training for your staff. It pays for itself in fewer damaged assets and injured people.

How can construction companies avoid making mistakes in fleet management?

Fleet management is a full-time job, not something you can simply take care of on Tuesday mornings. Managing your fleet operations will save money and resources in the long run. Be sure to:

  • Match the vehicle to the task saves time, money and risks
  • Identify operators that may benefit from coaching or training
  • Find potential issues prior to them becoming breakdowns
  • Prioritize proper preventive maintenance
  • Know the proper time to replace assets to avoid obsolescence and maximize ROI

Do you recommend any type of technology to help with fleet management?

A first-class fleet system (FMIS) in concert with telematics gives any fleet actionable intelligence. It keeps the right information at your fingertips, not chasing paper or management by spreadsheet.

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The Level is written by Margot Lester and edited by Katie Parsons.

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