Paul Woodward Timmins - Tips for Fleet Managers In Transportation

TIPS FOR FLEET MANAGERS IN TRANSPORTATION

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.

STEPS OF FLEET MANAGER IN TRANSPORTATION      

Selecting Vehicles Record Keeping Maintenance Driver Management Profit & Loss Education and Training

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.