intelligent

The problem is that many companies lack proper oversight of their drivers ’ movements , and few can afford steep fines from incompliance . Plus , when you don ’ t monitor drivers , resources inevitably get wasted . And during a driver shortage , efficiency is essential .

The digital switch and its benefits

SMEs that have not yet digitalised their fleet are at a significant disadvantage compared to those that have . Without fleet management software , it ’ s impossible to tell where each driver is and whether they ’ re running on time or within the desired driving hours . That also means customers can ’ t be provided with accurate ETAs , nor can they be given concrete proof of delivery or pickup .

Without this digital software , fleet managers have to monitor driving hours with manuallyfilled mileage logs , which take longer to go through and are easily misplaced . With fleet management software , users are able to optimise drivers ’ routes , which not only reduces travel time , but also helps to decrease fuel expenses and optimise driving behaviour .

Vimcar ’ s survey found that one in three SMEs digitalised their fleet during the pandemic . Of those , 94 % agreed that adopting more technology has directly benefited their business by making services more efficient , improving the customer experience and making employees ’ lives easier .

As the pressure grows for business of all sizes to continue to build back , while maximising efficiency and satisfying customers ’ demands for deliveries , using data to provide insights and analysis on how fleets are performing is key . With clarity comes efficiency , but also helps to relieve the stress from fleet managers and drivers , when a fleet is well managed and under control .

Tips and tactics to support the switch from excel to a fleet admin tool long it will be driven for and which driver you need to follow up with if they do not drive the hours specified .

• Fuel consumption : Ensure your fleet management software supports the fuel card you use . This makes it much easier to keep track of fuel costs , which are undoubtedly one of the biggest expenditures for a fleet .

• Take time upfront to input important dates and tasks : Regular tasks and deadlines such as contract expirations or MOTs can quickly creep up when they are not properly managed . By taking the time at the start to input this data will not only save a lot of time in the long run but will ensure you never miss an important deadline .

• Get the guidance you need : Make sure your fleet software provider takes the time to walk you through the software – either in person or remotely . This will give you a good understanding of how each aspect of the software works and will allow you to make the most of all of its functionality . At the very least , be sure your provider has a high level of customer service so if you do have any questions you can get through to someone easily .

• Automated workflows : Where possible , set up automated workflows to help save time , allow real-time improvements to your fleet and give you reduce running costs . �

Sami Eric , UK Country Manager at Vimcar

SMES THAT HAVE NOT YET DIGITALISED THEIR FLEET ARE AT A SIGNIFICANT DISADVANTAGE COMPARED TO THOSE THAT HAVE .

• Tracking vehicle hours : If you know how long a vehicle is booked for , you know how