Fleet Management: Contemporary Concerns & Their Implications

When Covid-19 first reached our shores in the Spring of 2020, most did not imagine the virus and its complications would be affecting American families and businesses a full year later. Those with small businesses have been particularly affected, with 3 out of 10 small business owners predicting they won’t survive the pandemic.

If you manage a fleet of commercial vehicles, you have to deal with safety issues, maintenance problems, and general upkeep of your trucks and SUVs daily. On top of that, you’re dealing with a decline in business due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and now you’re stuck in a purgatory of slow recovery rather than the immediate boomerang back to “business as usual” that was predicted last year.

In light of the Coronavirus pandemic, many fleet managers have found that they are working with a decreased budget, unable to keep up with behind-the-wheel safety training and dealing with a shortage of affordable commercial vehicles to choose from. 

Let’s discuss the contemporary concerns you’re facing as a modern fleet manager, and how you can run a successful business despite pandemic-related setbacks.

Rising Cost Of New Vehicle Acquisition

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the production of new cars has slowed globally. There is a lack of both new and used vehicles on American car lots, and many have been forced to pay the sticker price or higher for a much-needed work vehicle this year. A large concern for the modern fleet manager is the simple lack of trucks, SUVs, and sedans on the market. 

If you’re a fleet manager looking to acquire new commercial work vehicles, you may have a hard time finding your desired car in a reasonable price range. The average cost of a new car in the US is currently $40,000, the highest number on record, and costs continue to rise. 

Additionally, as car manufacturers incorporate more technology and safety features in cars, the price of new vehicles will continue to trend up. If you’re looking to acquire additional vehicles in the wake of a large project, consider renting a fleet of trucks rather than buying to stay within budget.

A Continued Emphasis On Vehicle Sustainability

With an increased emphasis on sustainability, there is a growing demand that vehicles adhere to eco-friendly standards. There is a deliberate move toward embracing electric vehicles on both a federal and state level, especially in more progressive areas like California. 

Many fleet managers fear that with the recent crackdown on carbon output, electric commercial vehicles will become the norm and their fleet will be obsolete. In order to mitigate this issue, consider investing in hybrid vehicles to bridge the gap and decrease your carbon footprint.

Decrease In Safety Initiatives Due To Pandemic Budget Constraints

Due to the pandemic, many companies have seen a decrease in revenue and are experiencing budgeting issues. Keeping up with safety regulations and training is an integral part of any business, but some are having to cut corners due to budget constraints. While you are likely in favor of fleet safety, you may not have the money. 

To solve this issue, many companies are offering safety courses online. Encourage your employees to keep up with fleet safety regulations by incentivizing them to enroll in online classes from home.

Conclusion

While there will always be setbacks involved in managing your fleet of commercial vehicles, the Covid-19 pandemic has likely made your job more difficult this year. However, if you educate yourself on the rising cost of vehicle acquisition, commit to honoring safety regulations, and transition to hybrid models to decrease your carbon footprint, you will be able to mitigate a few of the top issues facing fleet managers in 2021. 

If you’re looking to learn more about acquiring safe, modern vehicles at a low price, consider contacting a fleet rental agency to explore rental options for your next project.