Fleet Management Technology and Mobile App

Our web-based, cutting-edge fleet technology & mobile apps simplify and clarifies vehicle management and fleet reporting by placing many vehicle alternatives and industry expertise at your fingertips.  This helps you to steer clear from human errors that may pop up in during manual data consolidation processes. In this blog, explore & understand how fleet management technology and mobile apps are the future of telematics. 

Expansive Vehicle Inventory 

The dedicated & local Client Strategy Manager will use the Fleet Planning Toolkit, including technical parameters. Such as Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), fuel economy, and future maintenance to assist you in properly sizing cars for your company requirements. They’ll assist you in navigating our extensive car inventory, allowing you to explore all makes and models in detail and determining the best match for your company using our Vehicle Selector tool.   How-to-Drive-in-more-profit-with-A-Car-Rental-Solution-1

Vehicle Selector simplifies the process of evaluating all available choices and alternatives, equipping you to make informed, cost-effective fleet vehicle decisions for your fleet. 

Customizable dashboards 

Your Fleet Management platform is completely tailored to your fleet’s needs. Customize it any way you like to ensure that you immediately see the information you want when you log in.   The Client Website is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and draws information from a large database, allowing you to check maintenance schedules and statuses, invoicing information, fuel statistics, and driver information, among other things. 

Data and Alerts in Real-Time 

Our real-time logistics data identifies areas for improvement, assisting you in optimizing fleet productivity and efficiency. Additionally, the system can send warnings to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, ensuring that you and your drivers never miss a beat, even while on the go. 

Self Service 

Update driver information, vehicle descriptions, and mileage statistics, among other things. You may simply self-manage and update your fleet information through the Website. Additionally, you may provide each vehicle with an infinite number of unique identities to streamline regular procedures and centralize all vehicle documentation and claims online. 

Drivers’ Mobile Application 

Maintain driver connectivity. Our Mobile App integrates with existing systems to guarantee that drivers access critical information at work or on the road. Critical information and alarms will be accessible 24 hours a day, seven days after the driver downloads and logs into the app.   Your drivers are always a tap or two away from their maintenance card, insurance card, roadside help, fuel and maintenance finder, and accident reporting tools. 

Analysis of Total Costs 

We discover the finest chances for fleet optimization – with precise, real-time data – by using cutting-edge technology and analytics. Our system will aggregate all expenditures to do a comprehensive cost analysis.   Your Client Strategy Manager will utilize this information to figure in all of your monthly expenditures, replacement schedules, maintenance, taxes, and gasoline prices. As well as other financial aspects, so you have a comprehensive view of all future expenses going ahead. 

How do I choose a good fleet tracking system? 

Not only should a reliable fleet management software have the aforementioned critical characteristics, but it should also be simple to use, interact seamlessly with other programs and systems, and provide frequent upgrades and new features. Consider what it implies in further detail. 

  1. Ease of use

Your fleet management software should assist you in improving your fleet’s operating efficiency and save you time. It implies that the fleet management software you choose should be simple to install, straightforward, and provide rapid access to the information you want. 

  1. Integrations

A fleet management solution that enables the integration of numerous systems may assist you in ensuring that critical information is not missed. 

  1. Data insights

A fleet monitoring system should show data understandably and logically through a dashboard. Additionally, it should have a Safety Inbox to assist fleet managers in streamlining safety-related operations.  

  1. Mobile application for drivers

Your drivers are responsible for crucial actions before, during, and after their trips, even though they are constantly on the go. It entails keeping track of their Hours of Service and ensuring that they deliver on schedule.  As an example, suppose you’ve just received a new urgent job. By using the fleet monitoring system’s interface, you can easily see the positions of all your cars and allocate jobs to the driver who is closest to work. 

How are mobile apps transforming the logistics industry? 

GPS and the integration of AI and IoT in mobile logistics applications have become the industry’s new building blocks. These technologies enable businesses and end-users to follow cars, get real-time information, and push the boundaries of innovation and automation. 

Read Also: 5 Essential Safety Tips For Fleet Drivers

Mobile technology’s emergence has had the most dramatic effect on logistics. Every advantage of today’s developments in transportation-related mobile applications seems to have been tailor-made for the logistics business: onboard navigation systems, intelligent inventory management, real-time monitoring, and on-demand reservations. 

How do apps benefit logistics companies? 

Mobile applications assist logistics services in several ways that are becoming more efficient and effective. These include the following:  

  • Smart Navigation 

As cars’ navigation systems get more sophisticated, they may determine better routes for their drivers, lowering maintenance costs and downtime. 

  • Standardization of pit stops

By assisting drivers in locating pit stops before critical stop locations such as toll plazas, breakfast, lunch, and dinner breaks, smart, IoT, and AI-driven logistics systems end up forcing drivers to stop at pre-set, standardized breakpoints. It assists drivers in stopping at secure areas throughout the day and provides them with the assurance of consuming high-quality meals.  

  • Reduced maintenance costs

When combined with automated service calls, vehicles needing service are not assigned routes that may need service in the middle. Because trucks now travel on predetermined, more efficient routes, they minimize tire and engine wear. It contributes to maintaining a clean environment and decreasing downtime, delayed shipments, and expensive maintenance expenses, improving earnings.  

  • Consistent communication

Mobile phone and instant messaging have enabled drivers, ground employees, and service providers to maintain continual contact. It minimizes communication breakdowns and updates delays. 

  • Significant reduction in dependency on paper

Paperless transactions benefit the environment and logistics firms alike. They may now swiftly scan products using their mobile phones or hand-held readers, which speeds up delivery and routing operations. Combined with the IoT’s capabilities, this also removes the possibility of human mistakes in terms of missed manual scans and increases transparency for stakeholders. 

  • Simplified booking and payment processing

Booking pickup and delivery of items and payment may now be done using transport and logistics smartphone applications, decreasing dependence on paper money and removing the requirement for user-side transactions, hence expediting pickups and deliveries. 

  • Transparency

The primary issue that logistics fleet owners, drivers, and end-users encounter is a lack of transparency. Mobile technology, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence contribute to enhanced visibility and offer robust data with audit trails, mitigating the issue of transparency for all parties involved. 

Which is the best Android app used for mobile tracking? 

The following is a list of the finest phone tracker applications currently available on the market: 

  • Mobile spy. at 
  • mSpy 
  • uMobix 
  • Hoverwatch 
  • XNSPY 
  • FlexiSPY 
  • MobileTracker 
  • Snoopza 
  • FamiSafe 
  • Google Find My Device 
  • Glympse 
  • Life360 
  • Spy 
  • Where’s My Droid 
  • Geo Tracker 
  • Phone Tracker by Number 
  • GPS Phone Tracker & Mileage 
  • Phone GPS Tracker 

What are the advantages of IoT in fleet management? 

By using IoT in fleet management, fleet operators can:  

  • Increase operational efficiency via streamlined maintenance and logistics  
  • Comply more effectively with environmental and safety laws 
  • Increase fuel economy by optimizing route selection and vehicle maintenance 
  • Maintain a close eye on driver performance to ensure greater safety 
  • Preventative maintenance helps to maintain the vehicle’s health and value. 
  • Simplify processes, increase scheduling accuracy, boost invoicing accuracy, boost time management, and minimize paperwork 
  • Improve overall visibility of the company via reporting and efficient vehicle monitoring 
  • Increased customer satisfaction via on-time delivery and superior service quality 

Where can I find a professional fleet service? 

You may search for expert fleet services and other social media platforms on the internet. The following are some essential characteristics of professional fleet services; they will assist you in selecting the finest professional fleet service for your needs.  Below, we’ve highlighted the five must-have characteristics for your fleet of cars, along with their associated benefits: 

  1. Vehicle monitoring through GPS

A GPS tracking device is required for a GPS vehicle tracking and fleet management system to function properly.  

  1. Analysis of driving behavior

The finest fleet management systems will have a function that allows for the monitoring and measuring of driver behavior. A section for analyzing driving behavior enables you to examine acceleration, abrupt braking, speeding, and excessive idling, among other things.  

  1. Fleet alarms

Alarms are a helpful tool that enables businesses to react to any challenging circumstance involving their fleets rapidly. Fleet management software should enable you to build customized alerts based on your specific requirements. 

  1. Management of fuel

Continuously monitor fuel levels and the frequency with which cars are refueled and discharged. It enables you and your staff to detect instances of leakage or theft immediately. You may program alerts to notify you and the driver when draining occurs instantly.  

  1. Route planning and surveillance

Is your fleet traveling the most efficient path possible? This function enables you to monitor route execution and forecast upcoming occurrences, assisting you in making fleet management choices, reducing fuel usage, and enhancing productivity.  

How are mobile apps beneficial for a logistics business? 

Tracking While on the Move 

With this software, you can follow the car using GPS technology and quickly dispatch help if there is an issue. With the geolocation function, you can easily track the truck and get real-time updates on your orders – 24/7 access to your orders. 

Warehouse Management Made Simple 

The program will lead you to the proper stockpiling sites more accurately and make stock checking easier. All data is stored in a database, ensuring that no one person may access or save them concurrently. 

Reduced paper use and more automation 

With a few clicks, you can eliminate the need for desk work and manage everything. Automation of paper-based processes ultimately benefits the work process, much as various reports streamline operations by saving time and resources, making them ideal for strategic business. 

Cost and energy savings 

It has the potential to simplify a logistics organization’s many functional requirements. Everything can be accelerated using portable programs, and we may use it to improve courses and dispatches. As a result, the organization’s return on investment will grow, and its operations will become more efficient. It can enrich courses while also increasing their effectiveness and efficiency. 

Processing in a timely and accurate manner 

Mobile applications are the appropriate asset for boosting transportation and fleet management decision-making. It helps logistics management to execute and deliver goods more quickly. Field agents can regularly coordinate and operate flawlessly due to the reports and experiences captured in mobile apps. 

Which company develops a mobile application at a low cost? 

We have established several fleet management mobile solutions milestones with years of expertise and a track record of success. We empower enterprises by developing a GPS-enabled fleet monitoring management that operates in real-time and gives fleet managers an accurate tracking facility. Our specialization is developing low-cost on-demand solutions for the transportation business, where customization is second nature. 

What are a fleet and the fleet number of a truck? 

Fleet cars are owned, leased, or rented by a business or organization for business reasons. They also featured what is referred to as the ‘grey fleet.’  They include not just automobiles but also aviation and watercraft. Typically, a business’s vehicle fleet will consist of the following:  

  • Cars, Utes, SUVs, motorcycles, and vans (light vehicles) 
  • Vehicles such as trucks, buses, and coaches (heavy vehicles) 
  • Graders, dump trucks, forklift trucks, mobile cranes, bulldozers, and telehandlers, among other types of equipment (specialist vehicles and earth-moving equipment) 
  • ATVs, tractors, and harvesters, among others (agricultural vehicles) 
  • Plants that can be towed, such as generators, scissor lifts, and trailers 
  • Helicopters and airplanes (aircraft) 
  • Watercraft, ships, and hovercraft (vessels) 

Pedal bicycles are not often regarded as a vehicle fleet, yet businesses that use bicycles may be referred to as the ‘bicycle fleet,’ particularly in a rental arrangement involving these bikes.  Promoting and sustaining corporate identification and complying with DOT regulations are two primary reasons transportation businesses utilize fleet decals.  

What is the best GPS Device for Tracking Fleet Vehicles? 

That concludes our examination of many of the top fleet GPS monitoring system solutions. However, which GPS monitoring system is the best for a certain vehicle? Let’s have a look at some of the greatest solutions accessible to you if all you need is a GPS fleet tracker. 

The Top 7 GPS Fleet Tracking Devices 

1.OverDrive SilverCloud. Another amazing product from LandAirSea, the SilverCloud OverDrive, provides real-time updates (at a frequency of up to every three seconds), precision to less than ten feet, a rechargeable battery (that lasts up to 30 days), and unlimited data and use. 

2. SilverCloud GPS synchronization. Our top OBD (onboard diagnostics) pick, LandAirSea’s SilverCloud Sync GPS has all of the functionality of the SilverCloud online mapping platform, plus OBD data such as speed, battery, and fuel indications, idle time, and even alerts of sudden acceleration. 

3. Flashback GPS. The Flashback GPS, LandAirSea’s greatest passive GPS data recorder, can store up to 50 hours of data and six feet position accuracy. It is a good alternative for fleets that often return to a central location, such as transportation and delivery firms. 

4. SpyTec STI GL300. It is among the tiniest trackers on the market, making it a perfect choice if you want a device that must be concealed. The GL300 has a two-week battery life and may be used with a fleet monitoring app—SpyTec GPS for iOS or Track Pro 2.0 for Android.

5. LandAirSea 54. There’s a reason the LandAirSea 54 is one of the most popular real-time GPS trackers on the market today; it’s versatile, compact, and inexpensive, with plans ranging from live updates every 3 seconds to 1 every minute. 

6. FastTrack MT-OBD Vehicle Tracker in Real-Time. The FastTrack MT-OBD, one of our favorite OBD GPS fleet tracker alternatives, also includes fleet monitoring software for iOS and Android, allowing you to watch your car in real-time and with a wealth of data accessible. 

7. Optimus Tracker GPS Tracker. We like their OBD tracker because of the additional data it provides, but any of their solutions may work for you. Optimus has a variety of alternatives, including portable and OBD, and their customer service is excellent. 

What is a GPS vehicle tracking system? 

Fleet tracking is the process of monitoring and managing a fleet of vehicles via fleet tracking software (which may include and make use of a GPS fleet tracker and fleet GPS tracking system, for example).

Read Also: What Are The Benefits of Fleet Management Software?

A manager or company owner may acquire and use data such as vehicle whereabouts and driver habits to inform and boost fleet efficiency via a fleet tracking app or other methods of monitoring all of the cars in the fleet. 

Generally, a fleet GPS tracking system operates as follows: 

  1. Each vehicle is equipped with a GPS fleet tracker. The tracking gadget continually determines its whereabouts through GPS and the cellular network, then transmits to the central database or server. 
  2. The GPS position data is frequently provided through a map (which managers or owners can view at any time). Other data, like driving speed, braking intensity, and more, is often accessible in real-time, depending on the fleet tracking software you choose. 
  3. In general, however, all a manager has to do is check-in through a fleet tracking software or fleet tracking app and study the data—and with experience, they can utilize that data to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their scheduling and route planning. 

Numerous organizations also assist if you’re considering investing in fleet tracking software or a fleet GPS tracking system. 

Why use GPS tracking to track vehicles? 

Any software product (for example, a fleet tracking app) enables businesses to monitor, manage, and coordinate fleet cars from a central location. Fleet management software should ideally maintain a fleet operating smoothly and assist fleets in complying with all relevant requirements, reducing fuel (and other associated) expenses, and increasing efficiency and performance.  Typical features of fleet management software include the following:  

  • GPS tracking 
  • Planning and optimization of routes 
  • Optimization of cargo 
  • Scheduling fleet maintenance 
  • Routing and dispatching 
  • Management of prices and quotations 

Most systems combine networks, such as GPS, GLONASS, and cellular triangulation. Certain systems also have remote control capabilities, allowing fleet managers to manually overrule drivers to enforce speed limits or prevent cargo theft. 

Fleet Management Solutions and GPS Fleet Tracking

Logistics is an important component of every organization that generates output regardless of industry. Any business’s logistics operations are mostly dependent on a fleet of vehicles, including trucks, automobiles, machines, and aircraft. Businesses hire fleet managers to monitor, track and manage each vehicle in their fleet. It may vary from small fleets of a few cars to big fleets of hundreds of vehicles.

Fleet management solutions provide customized solutions depending on the business’s or transporter’s requirements. It includes vehicle tracking, route planning, optimization, fleet management, and various additional services. Additionally, they give company owners greater transparency and control over operations by monitoring and managing their whole fleet from a single location.

What is Fleet Management System?

A fleet management solutions (FMS) is a web-based application that allows for the monitoring and administration of cars and technicians. Consider fleet management solutions as a consolidated dashboard from which managers can monitor important performance indicators, obtain real-time insights and analytics, and employ technologies to assist in making essential business decisions. For instance, a fleet management system will enable you to see drivers’ whereabouts on the road in real-time. You may use this method to see whether your drivers are doing their jobs correctly or taking longer breaks at rest stops than required, for example.

Read Also: Benefits Of Online Car Rental Software

Additionally, fleet management systems give visibility into vehicle availability daily or hourly, delivery updates, cumulative on-road time, weather warnings, and strategic route modifications, among other things. Simultaneously, a fleet management system may give rapid access to a range of historical statistics, such as continuing maintenance expenses, technician and driver productivity summaries, and weekly fuel or mileage records.

Of course, manually compiling this data would be very time-consuming, but the fleet management system simplifies the process. It is significant because timely access to this information may significantly improve a fleet’s overall effectiveness.

How Fleet management solutions can help your business

Four areas are likely to gain from fleet management solutions: efficiency, performance, safety, and compliance. Here are some specifics on what to anticipate.

1.Efficiency

Fleet management has evolved into a comprehensive structure that enables you to determine the location of your vehicles; determine whether they are parked, idling, or moving (and at what speed); monitor scheduled and actual arrival times transform maintenance from reactive to preventive. You may save money by using near-real-time diagnostics that alert you when a vehicle has performance difficulties or needs repair.

You may optimize fleet schedules depending on available service hours. Additionally, you may keep a careful check on driver performance, both operationally and safely. Your home office may gain visibility with telemetry monitoring, allowing dispatchers to know where all their cars are and where they are scheduled to be at any given time

2. Performance

Improved management entails more knowledge and control of your fleet’s cars and drivers, allowing you to optimize their performance and cost-efficiency. It includes understanding the state of your cars and how they are being driven, assessing the engine’s and other essential systems’ functionality, and regulating fuel consumption.

Additionally, monitoring both vehicle state and driver performance can optimize fleet fuel management and save money on gasoline. Having data on idle and driving behavior, such as rapid acceleration and speeding, enables you to make adjustments and save money.

3. Safety

Always put the safety of your employees and vehicles first. Speed, lane changes, aggressive driving concerns such as quick acceleration or harsh braking, unannounced stops, excessive idling, breakdowns, vehicle accidents, and out-of-route miles may all be monitored using in-car sensors.

Access to this data enables you to guide your drivers toward more responsible conduct and assist in ensuring that all of your rules are followed.

What are the outcomes?

Fewer accidents and greater safety performance result in fewer liability claims, fewer traffic penalties, reduced insurance rates, and less worry about cars being taken out of service due to accidents.

Additionally, drivers aware that their conduct is observed are more likely to adhere to your rules, traffic laws, and industry requirements. Geofencing – the process of establishing geographic boundaries around your cars – may help keep them out of unapproved geographic regions or construction zones where they may be more vulnerable to theft or damage. Drivers may be informed if they enter such zones or deviate from their planned path in any way.

4.Compliance

Compliance is critical regardless of the size of your fleet. Maintaining compliance with regulations governing driver time limits, mandatory activity records, fuel tax payments, inspections, and other regulatory obligations is made simpler with fleet management systems that contain electronic logging devices or ELDs. You can almost remove paperwork and the danger of human mistakes when using ELDs. Logs are guaranteed to be accurate and quickly accessible. It streamlines reporting and lets you keep a closer eye on activities and optimize trip planning. Drivers no longer have to waste time filling out forms and can instead concentrate on what you paid them to do: keep your cars on the road and produce income.

By providing extensive logging data, ELDs may help save inspection time. It simplifies inspections and removes the need to deal with handwritten records as you attempt to verify service hours and correct any inaccuracies in your reports. It doesn’t matter how big or small your company is; a fleet management system may help you better track and manage your cars and their drivers.

What is Vehicle Fleet Management?

Vehicle fleet management supervises all fleet maintenance and operations to maximize the company’s efficiency and reduce risk. Any firm that regularly uses commercial vehicles should have some fleet management. Fleet managers are engaged to oversee all aspects of fleet operations. It involves the following:

  • managing drivers
  • vehicle upkeep
  • contract negotiations with suppliers
  • planning of routes
  • asset management
  • cost control of gasoline
  • keeping an eye on fuel usage
  • reducing waste
  • increasing business productivity

Additionally, fleet managers and operators use vehicle fleet management software to streamline operations and ensure compliance with the ELD regulation.

How is fleet management related to GPS?

GPS fleet monitoring entails tracking fleet vehicles’ position, speed, and route using GPS receivers installed inside. Vehicle efficiency and driver behavior may be improved by analyzing this data, and then supplied to the fleet management.

Is fleet management smarter with GPS tracking?

GPS monitoring has provided fleet management experts with more control and information, reducing driver stress. They may also become more effective in their occupations as a result. Numerous notifications may be quite beneficial to drivers. They will not take the incorrect route by mistake since an alarm will be provided if this occurs. Previously, drivers were forced to depend exclusively on their navigating abilities. Even the most accomplished and seasoned drivers make errors. They are less likely to have similar difficulties nowadays.

Read Also: 8 Tips for Managing Fleet Vehicles

Fleet managers now have access to a high-tech virtual road map that benefits everyone. They may see what occurs on the road in real-time. Drivers, customers, and everyone else will benefit from more assistance. They have put in place a structure that will assist them.

Additionally, GPS monitoring enables experts to maintain far more meticulous records than they ever could in the past. They will include exact details of what occurred on the route and any significant incidents. Consequently, professionals will effectively assess an employee’s job performance while also avoiding some disputes that might arise in these situations. This data is accessible at all times, even when the automobiles are still on the road.

What are the advantages of a GPS tracker in fleet management?

In the realm of transportation technology, it pays to understand your fleet’s requirements and how developing technologies might assist your business the greatest. GPS fleet tracking is a time-tested technique that encompasses more than dots on a map.

To get the most out of GPS tracking, you need the first grasp the advantages of GPS tracking and how they may assist you in meeting your business’s objectives. The following are the top five advantages of GPS tracking:

  • INCREASED SAFETY
  • REDUCE FUEL EXPENSES
  • REDUCED OPERATING COSTS
  • EXPANDED PRODUCTIVITY
  • THEFT RECONSTRUCTION

What is the best fleet management software solution?

As every business with a fleet of vehicles is well aware, a fleet management system is a necessary tool for ensuring cost-effective and productive operations. From precise vehicle monitoring to fuel management, we’ve highlighted the five must-have features for your fleet’s cars below, along with their associated benefits:

  • Vehicle monitoring through GPS
  • Analysis of driving behavior
  • Fleet-wide alerts
  • Management of fuel
  • Route planning and surveillance

Conclusion

Using a GPS tracking strategy is appropriate for businesses that handle high-value automobiles. Its primary objective is to increase fleet efficiency and give insightful vehicle and driver performance data. A firm may significantly cut its fuel consumption, maintenance expenses, accident rate, and paperwork with the appropriate software in place. Not to mention the improved recovery time and decrease in fleet assets that is lost or stolen.

Last but not the least, a fleet monitoring system has the potential to significantly increase company income and profitability, as well as enhance customer service. If you are also looking to incorporate a fleet management system in your business, contact us today!

Advanced GPS Fleet Tracking Software

With advanced GPS fleet tracking software you can monitor your vehicles in real time, receive notifications in the event of reckless driving and keep track of how many times your vehicle was halted and for how long. This contributes to increased efficiency and argues for the prevention of wrongdoing.

Is it possible to disable the factory GPS in a car?

After locating a GPS tracking device, it can be disabled. Apart from detaching the battery, it is possible to disable the GPS signal.

It is critical to completely remove and dispose of the device to ensure that it does not continue sending your whereabouts. 

What are the reasons to buy GPS devices for personal tracking? 

1.With fleet tracking, you can increase your fleet’s visibility 

Gain a near-real-time, 360-degree perspective of your fleet’s daily operations to help you decrease costs, boost productivity, stay on top of vehicle maintenance, and make the most of every work day. 

2.Fleet management with fewer resources 

Improved fleet visibility enables you to assess what you own and how it is being used. Our GPS fleet tracking technology can assist you in identifying hidden costs and opportunities for increased production and efficiency. 

3.Monitor the status and activity of any vehicle in your fleet. 

High-resolution maps combined with intelligent grouping and detail on demand give a simple yet effective vehicle tracking solution for the following purposes: 

  • Contribute to the reduction of fuel consumption 
  • Provide precise arrival times 
  • Monitor car diagnostics and maintenance requirements 
  • Maintain visibility over your mobile personnel and equipment. 
  • Prevent unlawful use outside of the designated area 

4.Analyze the performance of your fleet over time 

Important trends can be viewed by the team, department, or the entire fleet. With near real-time fleet statistics offered by our fleet tracking system, our configurable dashboards make it simple to monitor your progress toward KPIs or budgets. 

Who is the target audience for fleet tracking? 

For fleet managers searching for an easy-to-use vehicle tracking system that solves typical pain areas such as excessive fuel expenses, employee productivity, driver safety, compliance, and asset protection. 

1.Maintain compliance with ELD requirements 

By automating the recording of on-duty, off-duty, and driving operations, Electronic Logging Devices can assist truck drivers in remaining compliant. 

Because the hardware is directly attached to the vehicle, it increases the accuracy of HOS records and can help reduce the risk of fines for missing or out-of-date logs, which result in exceeding the daily limit. 

2.Increase safety by tracking your drivers 

Allow drivers to compete for business leader board positions by driving safely, effectively, and efficiently. Connect driver and vehicle data to track your crew’s whereabouts and assist them in developing safe driving habits. 

With a variety of configuration options and an inexpensive monthly fee, you can take advantage of all the benefits of a robust fleet tracking system from one of the largest telematics providers in the United States. 

3.Obtain the assistance you require 

From strategy to implementation, integration, and training, we are committed to assisting you in maximizing your performance, return on investment, and bottom line. 

4.To promote safety, keep an eye on driver conduct 

View video clips of dangerous driving incidents that occur within minutes of their occurrence. Determine the severity of an incident using harsh driving classifications to assist you in improving driver safety and coaching your drivers. With neutral footage, you can help limit risk and liabilities. 

5.Mobile application Spotlight 

Our GPS fleet tracking mobile apps enables you to conduct business on the go.  View vehicles and assets on a real-time map, track a driver’s whereabouts, view vehicle activity and route history, and receive notifications regarding driver conduct. 

6.Enterprise fleet management software 

Organizations with hundreds or thousands of resources require additional capabilities—additional options, modifications, support, and training. We collaborate with enterprise fleets to provide a customized solution for your business. 

  • Increase your access to data on your vehicles, employees, and assets 
  • Calculate forecasting, job planning, and route sequencing metrics 
  • Connect to different platforms using pre-built connectors 
  • Possess a range of hardware alternatives, including those associated with OEMs 

How to implement a GPS tracking system? 

To install a GPS tracking system, you can use geo-fencing, which triggers an alarm when the car deviates from established routes. 

The initial step 

When it comes to installing a GPS tracking device on your vehicle, the first step is to locate a power source. 

Step two:

Insert the active device into the casing at this point. Choose a location for the device inside your automobile in such a way that it has no chance of being exposed to anyone. 

Step three: 

The final step is to verify that the device has been installed correctly. After securing the case in a secure and concealed section of your vehicle, take it for a short drive. 

What are the advantages of GPS tracking for fleets? 

Do you wish to minimize your transportation business’s operational costs and increase its productivity? A GPS tracking system is required to get started. 

1.Saves time 

Occasionally, your fleet will become trapped in traffic for several minutes. With an effective fleet management system, your fleet managers will be able to direct drivers in real time to avoid congested roadways. 

2.Minimize downtime 

Reduced downtime is critical for increasing a transportation company’s production and profitability. 

3.Improved Safety 

With AI-enabled fleet management software & dash cams we enable fleet managers to track & analyze poor driving patterns like over speeding, harsh braking, harsh cornering etc.

Dash cams allow managers to get deeper visibility on road rage, traffic violations & distracted driving. 

4.Minimize Fuel Costs 

Our GPS vehicle tracking solution alerts transport managers about the unauthorized vehicle use with the help of work calendar & vehicle dispatching modules.

Read Also: Top 5 School Transport Services in UAE

Unauthorized use of vehicles can end up making significant increase in fuel costs, so our advanced GPS tracking device makes sure that drivers are taking the most optimized routes & travel with the most effective fuel use 

5.Lowers Operational Costs 

With our GPS vehicle tracking software you can get instant insights & access to the problems faced by the transport managers daily. This will help streamline processes and quickly helps to mitigate costs that existed for a longer period of time. 

6.Increased Productivity 

Our GPS vehicle tracking system monitors the times spent by the drivers and other personnel’s at the loading bay, job sites & other locations to ensure their productivity. This way you can eliminate waste time & streamline processes much more effectively. 

7.Theft Recovery 

Protect your vehicles and other valuable assets with our state of the art GPS tracking device. With the help of our work calendar you can easily monitor and quickly identify the unauthorized use of your assets. If your vehicle is stolen or entered a location outside the designated area you will receive instant alerts. 

8.Maximize Vehicle Utilization    

With our GPS software you can get the most out of your fleets. Transport managers can use the data and analysis gathered from the GPS tracking software to assess and remove over-speeding, vehicle idle time and decrease fuel consumption. 

9.Optimize Resources   

GPS solutions allows transport managers to monitor their vehicles and get detailed insights on driver behavior, fuel usage, engine idling, etc., in real time. With the data acquired from our GPS vehicle tracking system, you can utilize your resources efficiently and identify key cost-saving areas. 

10.Reduce Insurance Costs 

Another great benefit of a implementing a advanced GPS fleet tracking software is the insurance costs. Insurance companies give out special discounts to vehicle that implement GPS trackers in their dashboards. On some places you can get up to 35% off on your premium insurance cost. 

 Conclusion

Utilize a advanced GPS fleet tracking software to get the most out of your transportation trucks. Your fleet managers will be able to use the GPS tracking software’s data and analysis to remove vehicle idle time, reduce over-speeding, and cut fuel consumption. 

13 Best Fleet Management and GPS Tracking Software for 2022

Is GPS tracking the best option for your business and fleet? Yes, in a nutshell! Regardless of the size of your fleet, a fleet management system may help you save time and money. Before discussing some of the best enterprise fleet management systems, let’s first discuss the critical nature of fleet management! 

What is Enterprise Fleet Management? 

Fleet Management refers to fleet managers’ methods to manage all aspects of their fleet and assets, from purchase through disposal. It helps businesses save money, increase efficiency, and assure compliance throughout their fleet operation. 

What is Fleet Management’s Purpose? 

Any firm that uses cars in its operations must have professional fleet management. It maintains the management of commercial vehicles while also reducing related risk, increasing efficiency and productivity, and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations.  How-to-Drive-in-more-profit-with-A-Car-Rental-Solution-1 With multiple problems – vehicle procurement, fuel management, vehicle maintenance, health and safety, and compliance – fleet management must depend on an effective fleet management system to accomplish its objectives while mitigating the complexity associated with typical issues.   Here are our top 13 recommendations for enterprise fleet management software without further ado. 

The Top Thirteen Enterprise Fleet Management Solutions 

  1. Fleet Management 

Fleet Management software is a premium venture aimed at solving different types of problems faced by transport providers from different fields. With an array of state of the art real time features fleet management strives to provide comprehensive solutions to maximum number of problems faced by transport providers. Fleet Management provides solutions for On Demand Vehicle Tracking, Car Rental Services, Tour Operators, Schools, Waste Management & Corporate Transportation.  With over 5k clients across 32 different countries, fleet management aims to solve all types of problems faced by transport providers with an vital fleet management solutions when they are having issues managing small fleets with 2-3 vehicles to large fleets with hundred of vehicles  

Key Features 

  • Route Optimization 
  • User Specific Mobile Apps 
  • Over 55+ On Demand Reports 
  • 24×7 Real Time Live Tracking  
  • State of the art Dashboard 
  • Vehicle Document Management 
  • Mobilizing & Demobilizing 
  • Driver Behavior Analytics 

Pros 

  • Saves More Than It Costs 
  • Artificial Intelligence Features 
  • Customization Options 
  • Risk Management & Low Maintenance 
  • More ROI 

Pricing 

  • Sign up for freemium & get started on services 
  • Real-time tracking of Commercial Vehicles for $250/Month 
  • Real-time tracking of Passenger Vehicles for  $750/month 
  1. Vehicle Tracking System

Vehicle Tracking System Qatar is a leading provider that offers customizable & affordable GPS vehicle tracking solutions for transport businesses. They offer hardware & software solutions for fleet owners who want to manage their fleets without any hassle. With tailor-made solutions to help prevent theft, reduce fuel-costs significantly, restrict vehicle movement (geo-fencing), you can witness high productivity in your rental cab, travel, or logistics business.  Belonging to the Technoalliance Ecosystem they provide tracking solutions to clients across the globe with the aim to make world class tracking technology available to everyone across the globe to ensure safety and working efficiency. 

Key Features 

  • Real Time Live Tracking 
  • Route Optimization and Dispatching 
  • Geo-Fence & Route History 
  • Driver Behavior Analytics 
  • Location Data Saving 
  • Mobilizing & De Mobilizing 

Pros 

  • Real-time traffic data to avoid traffic jams 
  • Web-based facility and accessibility 
  • Superior routing and dispatching 
  • Enhanced safety and security for assets as well as employees 

Pricing 

  • Non-Contract Based Subscription- 40 QAR per month per vehicle 
  • Contract Based Subscription- 300 QAR per year per vehicle 
  • Mobile Based Solution Subscription- 4 QAR per vehicle per month 

3. Connecteam 

Connecteam is an employee management tool that enables you to keep track of your team members’ work hours. With its simple-to-use employee time clock, you can keep track of your employees on jobs, projects, customers, and other duties. This more efficient and speedier solution can end classic labor-management headaches like buddy punching and time padding. Connecteam’s feature set includes real-time collaboration tools such as chats, updates, and alerts.   It enables you to consolidate your mobile human resources into a single app and automate talent management while providing your team members with more flexibility, mobility, and task-specific functionality. Additionally, the platform enables you to boost staff productivity, enhance employee monitoring, and conveniently track employee output and real-time whereabouts during business hours. 

Key Features 

  • Geofence-enabled GPS time tracking 
  • Dispatching and scheduling with real-time information on driver availability and shift assignments 
  • Chat one-on-one or in groups, communicate corporate updates, distribute surveys, and more. 
  • Drivers may submit reports while on the road, and you can process them in real-time. 
  • Create one-time or recurring activities, such as the renewal of licenses. 
  • Increase safety and compliance by providing immediate access to policies via the app. 
  • Courses for on-boarding and skill improvement delivered through the app 

Pros  

  • Access through desktop and mobile 
  • Extremely simple to use 
  • Good customer service  

Cons 

There are currently no integrations available; Connecteam is an all-in-one application. 

Pricing 

  • Premium pricing for up to 50 users begins at only $39 per month. 
  • A no-cost plan 
  • 14-day trial period 

4. US Fleet Tracking 

US Fleet Tracking, founded in 2005 in Oklahoma City, is one of the world’s oldest and biggest GPS tracking firms, operating in over 150 countries.  The firm offers enterprise fleet tracking services and also makes the associated gear. US Fleet Tracking takes pleasure in providing logistical assistance for various high-profile events in the United States, including the 2010 Pro Bowl, the 2011 NHL All-Star Game, and the 2010 Winter Olympics, as well as every Super Bowl since 2007.  The firm is dedicated to providing reliable GPS tracking information via an easy-to-use solution that is affordable to the majority. Its pricing strategy is suitable for businesses with big fleets and individuals interested in tracking their cars.  Because US Fleet Tracking has operations throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, and the Middle East, Australia, South America, and Africa, working with a single fleet tracking provider becomes simpler for organizations with a worldwide presence. 

Key Features 

  • App for mobile 
  • Alerts for excessive speed 
  • Geofence notifications 
  • Checks on traffic and weather 
  • Maintenance notifications 
  • Notifications of ignition 

Pros  

  • Excellent client service 

Cons 

  • Can be difficult for beginners 
  • Can be finicky 

Pricing 

  • 10-second updates are included in each hardwire tracker’s $29.95 monthly fee. 
  • A monthly subscription fee of $39.95 includes five-second updates. 

5. Geotab 

Geotab may be the appropriate tool for managing a fleet and its supplies. This open-source fleet management software ensures compliance with current industry norms, procedures, and standards. Geotab is also scalable, allowing customers to adapt it to their present configuration, systems, and processes. Adopting and deploying Geotab is a basic and straightforward process.   Geotab enables excellent driver log management, and its ability to monitor a driver’s tiredness levels and hours of service make it simple to keep them safe. Geotab’s BYOD (Bring Your Device) capability enables drivers’ Android or iOS devices to interface with a current system. Geotab’s SDK and open API make it simple to develop driver apps. 

Key Features 

  • Supports Workdays of sixteen hours 
  • Routing of trucks 
  • Electronic logbooks for drivers 
  • Warnings from stoplight cameras 
  • Audits of driving and duty hours 

Support for weather conditions 

Pros  

  • Compatibility with Garmin 

Cons 

  • It can be difficult to maneuver 

Pricing 

  • Includes a one-time purchase of the gadget and ongoing monthly membership payments. Consult a salesperson for comprehensive price information. 

6. Onfleet 

Onfleet is a enterprise fleet management software solution that enables businesses in various sectors to manage and monitor their local delivery operations, including retail, postal, food & beverage, and pharmacy. It is also equipped with a systematic driver selection procedure and effective monitoring tools that centralize dispatching and workflows for improved operations management.   This cloud-based system has search and filter options that allow companies to explore the platform using status-based inquiries, delivery jobs, time, or text messages, making it simpler to discover clients or even drivers. Additionally, it includes simple smart phone apps and automatic SMS alerts to keep consumers informed and involved with the organization’s activities.   On top of that, Onfleet has API capabilities that enable enterprises to integrate the software with online ordering programs and other platforms. 

Key Features 

  • Statuses denoted by color 
  • Filters and advanced search 
  • Automated text message delivery to consumers 
  • Accurate timelines 
  • Alerts in real-time 

Pros  

  • Simple to use 

Cons 

  • Additional features are required. 

Pricing 

  • The starter package is priced at $149 per month. 
  • 14-day trial period 

7. Fleet Maintenance Pro 

Fleet Maintenance Pro is distributed and designed by Innovative Maintenance Systems. Not only do customers get a varied tracking suite that optimizes fleet management advantages, but they also get a diversified set of capabilities with this program. Fuel management, vehicle management, and driver management are just a few of these capabilities. Fleet Maintenance Pro is versatile software that allows customers to monitor data in whatever manner they like.   The management of equipment is streamlined, and we may monitor several vehicles. Both large corporations and small organizations use fleet Maintenance Pro. Retail and wholesale, automation and manufacturing, third-party logistics, and delivery and transportation services are just a few of the businesses that may benefit from this software. 

Key Features 

  • Cloud-based 
  • Tracking of repairs 
  • Imports of fuel and meters 

Pros  

  • Simple to use 
  • Excellent client service 

Cons 

  • Additional features are required. 
  • It takes time to set up. 

Pricing 

  • To begin, a standard package costs $499. 
  • Trial period of 30 days without charge 

8. TN360 by Teletrac 

Operating a successful fleet requires a unique perspective on your cars and drivers to extract critical data for real-time decision-making. Businesses can convert data into choices with Insights from TN360 by Teletrac Navman by quickly and effectively identifying challenges and possibilities for development.  TN360 Insights enables fleets to go beyond tracking dots on a map by transforming real-time data into business insight that visibility into fleet operations.  Insights which is integrated into your TN360 dashboard, provides immediate access to the data you need to do critical business and staff decisions, including: 

  • Compliance 
  • Safety 
  • Maintenance 
  • Productivity 
  • And much more 

Key Features 

  • Instant access to driver and vehicle data 
  • Geofencing 
  • Updates on traffic 
  • ELD documents that are accurate 
  • Vehicle surveillance 
  • Scorecards for drivers 

Pros  

  • Elegant user interface 

Cons 

  • Moderate learning curve 

Pricing 

  • Pricing begins at $39 per month for up to 50 users, or you can sign up for the free-for-life option. 

9. Telematics by TomTom 

Targa Telematics has always been a leader in assisting organizations in meeting the ever-increasing need for a more secure and sustainable approach to mobility. Our clients will continue to benefit from innovative solutions with exceptional coverage throughout Europe when they partner with TomTom.  Advanced reverse geocoding, geofencing, and speed limit data are utilized to provide the most effective vehicle and asset tracking features. With the TomTom Search API, you can transform latitude and longitude into useful information.  With the TomTom Maps APIs, you can create a meaningful map experience for your web or mobile application. Access map materials that gives the necessary degree of detail — on a global scale – courtesy of worldwide coverage and two billion monthly updates. 

Key Features 

  • Track and trace in real-time 
  • Keep an eye on driving conduct. 
  • Traffic data in real-time 
  • Include mileage and timesheets for employment. 

Pros  

  • Excellent client service 

Cons 

  • User interface is not simple 

Pricing 

  • Speak with a representative to get further information about pricing. 

10. Wialon 

Wialon is a enterprise fleet management system that may also monitor mobile and fixed assets. This GPS fleet tracking has been active worldwide for over 15 years, expanding into 130 countries. This solution integrates with various cartographic services used in tracking, including Bing Maps, Google Maps, etc. Additionally, users may use Gurtam Maps, which has many possibilities for meeting the system’s cartographic needs. Also, Wialon offers a universal tracking solution compatible with over nine hundred different tracking device types.   Moreover, the system can handle data gathered by cameras, tachographs, and aftermarket sensors. Wialon’s mobile app is another useful tool for keeping track on asset activity and updating the monitoring unity list in real time. 

Key Features 

  • Unit tracking in real-time 
  • Report creation 
  • Control of fuel usage 
  • Route management 

Pros  

  • Excellent client service 

Cons 

  • Protracted learning curve 

Pricing 

Speak with a representative to get further information about pricing. 

11. Fleet Manager by GPSTrackIt 

Without the hassle, you can provide your fleet with cutting-edge technology, customizable features, and real-time monitoring. This enterprise fleet management software is supported by live support, mobile access, and simple-to-use online collaboration.  Get a bird’s eye perspective of your whole business with dynamic maps, breadcrumb trails, and the ability to pinpoint the closest cars to a particular location – all backed by the dependability of Google Maps. 

Read Also: Advanced Fleet Management: What Is It?

With this fleet telematics system and Google Maps, you can put an end to fleet tracking confusion once and for all.  By using Geofences, you may not only monitor the movements of your fleet but also keep control over sites you’ve designated as off-limits, such as bars, adult entertainment facilities, or even the driver’s house. GPS Trackit fleet management provides 24×7 coverage that powers and protects your company. 

Key Features 

  • Maintenance notifications 
  • Geofence breach notifications 
  • API access to the public and data pump 
  • Arrangements and dispatching 
  • Reporting that is automated 
  • Alerts on vehicle maintenance 

Pros 

  • Simple to use 

Cons 

  • Additional features are required for fleet maintenance. 

Pricing 

  • Monthly rates begin at $23.95 

12. GPS Insight Fleet Tracking Solution 

GPS Insight fleet tracking software enables you to monitor and manage your cars, equipment, and other mobile assets. Tracking software does much more than just monitor and trace; it gives the data necessary to address real-world business problems.  Boost fleet visibility, real-time monitoring of everyday operations, and proactive maintenance to save costs, increase productivity, and increase responsibility.  See your cars’ whereabouts with precise precision in real-time, intelligently deploy them, and improve your fleet. Monitor and teach driver behavior to improve fleet safety, minimize risk, and save money on severe event expenses.  Increase uptime and save expenses with real-time vehicle diagnostics, preventive maintenance scheduling, and fleet usage information. 

Key Features 

  • Alerts through email and SMS 
  • Routing 
  • Integration of fuel cards 
  • APIs that are available for free 

Pros  

  • Responsive customer service 

Cons 

  • Utilization is difficult 

Pricing 

  • To get started, request a free demo. 

13.RTA Fleet Management 

As a fleet manager, you will never be able to foresee everything. However, the variables you can control, such as fuel, inventory, maintenance, and work orders, should be more controllable. Therefore, if you’re gazing around your workplace and seeing overloaded file cabinets, sticky notes are strewn around, and a spreadsheet that’s one click away from erasing hours of effort, we can assist.  RTA’s cutting-edge fleet management software is accurate, dependable, and user-friendly, with sophisticated reporting integrations to assist you in keeping your operators safe, your cars in good condition, and your budgets in the black. 

Key Features 

  • Maintain precise fuel and mileage measurements 
  • Management of work orders 
  • Management of Vehicles, Equipment, and Fuel 
  • A mobile application 

Pros  

  • Helpful customer service 

Cons 

  • Protracted learning curve 

Pricing 

  • Pricing begins at $69/month/user. 
  • Automated Fleets and Fleet Tracking in the Future 

Conclusion

When purchasing enterprise fleet management software (and hardware) for your organization, a fleet management system (FMS) is likely to be one of the costliest investments, you may even decide that an FMS is unnecessary for your organization and that you can get by with a time tracking application or other less expensive staff management solutions.   

How To Overcome Fuel Usability With Marine Fleet Management

Marine Fleet Management Systems are designed to track, monitor, analyze and report the overall performance of a fleet of vessels. The key performance indicators for operational efficiency and profitability of the fleet are effective fuel and engine management.

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The consumption and usage of fuel in ships is the basic factor that has a direct impact on the operational efficiency of the fleet. Marine fleet management systems provide a clear and transparent understanding of fuel usage.

Marine Fleet Management System

The marine fleet management system is a specialized platform that automates the entire fleet operations from procurement of vessels and fuel, tracking of the fleet and accessing market information. The system analyzes individual vessel performance and overall marine fleet management performance.

The system allows the fleet managers to track the actual fuel usage and compare this with the work performed by each vessel. The system collates the information to provide an understanding of how efficiently the vessel uses the fuel. This data on fuel consumption forms the yardstick for assessment of the quantity of fuel that would be required for each vessel in the fleet for specific voyages.

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The vessels are not equipped with any in-built gadget that can measure the level of fuel and the usage while sailing. The traditional manual methods of measuring fuel tank levels are impractical considering the large volumes of fuel used by the marine vessels. The inaccuracy of the data is another deterrent to using dipsticks and sounding for measurement of fuel levels.

The on-board system ensures that sensors are installed in the fuel tanks to continuously monitor the level of fuel when taken onboard. Gauges and flow meters are installed on the fuel transfer lines to measure the quantity of fuel taken in or off the vessel.

The system has the ability to monitor fuel burn rates for each engine and generator onboard the vessel. The fuel tank levels along with these burn rates provide the crew with a clear picture of the engine performance. This data will help them in making informed decisions to improve efficiency.

Monitoring Of Fuel Consumption

Factors impacting fuel usage

Vessel Idling: Fuel is consumed when the vessel is traveling and while idling at the ports. During idling, considerable fuel is burnt and causes pollution to the surrounding environment. The docking time at the ports can be optimized to reduce fuel usage.

Size and Load: The quantity of fuel consumed by the engines and generators at the port or starboard differs. The fuel levels consumed while transporting oil, cargo, passengers and other heavy material also differ. The fuel consumed depends on the ship size and the load transported. A standard rate of usage cannot be derived as the load impacts the fuel burnt.

Crew Usage: The fuel consumption is directly related to the way in which the vessel operator uses the engine’s throttle. The consumption varies with different sets of crews operating similar vessels and voyages.  

Speed: Vessel operators reduce engine speed to save on fuel. Reducing engine speed reduces the speed of the vessel. Fuel consumption drops at lower cruising speeds. Reducing vessel speed does not always guarantee lesser fuel usage as it is dependent on other engine parameters.

When vessel speeds are lowered the shipping time increases. The longer shipping times might affect the fleet’s viability in the delivery of goods that are time-sensitive.

Lowering speeds to increase fuel efficiency will result in the underutilization of engine capacity.  The engine will have to be modified to operate at lower speeds. This will involve adjustment of valves, fuel injection timing and change of mechanical components in the engine.

Hull Condition: The condition of the vessel’s hull and propulsion system impacts the fuel consumed. Weather conditions like winds and currents put pressure on the engine’s performance. A workflow calculation, on the operating system under changing conditions, tied to fuel usage will help in arriving at optimum vessel speeds.

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The marine management system can compile all the data, perform the calculations and provide recommendations to the captain of the vessel while on the voyage. These prompt suggestions will help the operator to be proactive.

Fuel accounting

The flow meters fitted on the fuel transfer lines measure the accurate volume of fuel taken on board. The sensors detect the actual fuel levels in the tank. This coupled with the data on the actual fuel consumed by the engines and generators and the distance traveled will give the managers an explicit picture of fuel usage.

This information addresses the concern of fuel theft that happens on the high seas while sailing and docking at ports. Diverting or siphoning of fuel from the storage tanks or pipelines can cause pollution or accidents. After consideration of all variables, any variance in the volumes detected by the system will point to fuel theft.

Fuel spills happen at times when refilling fuel tanks. The system can be configured to sound audible alarms when a spillage occurs.

The international regulations for the prevention of pollution of the seas provide guidelines for reporting accidental marine fuel spills from ships. The fuel management system will help the management to detect fuel spills that go unreported unrecorded.

It is important to know how a vessel uses fuel between different points on a voyage. This knowledge helps the fleet operators in fixing shipping rates. The burn rates can be linked to actual costs allowing the shipper to bid competitive rates to ensure adequate profit margins.

Benefits of a marine fleet management system

Process automation

The system streamlines the complete marine fleet operations. It eliminates the need for manual processes and extensive use of spreadsheets. The system is cloud-based with no hardware. This assures lower maintenance costs.

Fleet Monitoring

The operators can continuously monitor the movement of the fleet on the sea from the shore. The on-board management system is integrated with the on-shore system. Easy access to data helps the operators to plan ahead. The facility to set up alerts permit them to respond quickly and extend timely support to the vessel masters in cases of emergency. Prompt actions will help to reduce catastrophes and the associated expenses.

Fuel Purchase

The system helps in making well-informed decisions in the procurement of fuel. This enables the vessels to maintain high fuel reserves and to avoid the under-filling of fuel tanks. The optimal tank capacity is configured by the system. Requests for re-fuelling at ports on a voyage become effortless.

Fuel prices can be compared and advantages in price can be availed. The best supplier can be chosen. There are lots of types of fuels in the market. A comparative study on the suitability for each vessel can be done with ease.

Vessel Voyages

Optimal routes for the entire marine fleet can be designed to ensure fuel efficiency. The start and end ports, expected dates of arrival and departure and re-fuelling dates and locations can be obtained. Optimizing the distance and time leads to saving of fuel and expenses.

Maintenance Cost

A well-maintained vessel ensures optimal consumption of fuel. The wear and tear of engine parts and propulsion system hampers the performance of the vessels. Regular and preventive maintenance is essential for the smooth functioning of the fleet. A proper maintenance program is scheduled by the system based on factual information.

The number of hours of operation of the engines and generators and the actual fuel used by them determines the maintenance schedule of the vessels. Prompt service and maintenance will help in eliminating or reducing unnecessary time and expenses spent on maintenance.

Pollution control

The ships cause air, water, and sound and oil pollution. Greenhouse gases are emitted. Oil spills are of great concern as they cause devastating effects on marine life. The system is designed to do an analysis of exhaust gas emissions of the vessels at varying speeds and engine RPMs and with different fuel grades.

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The optimal speeds and fuel grades that can reduce pollution can be derived from this data. The vessels have to comply with the guidelines issued by the International Convention of Prevention of Pollution of the seas.

The aim of an ideal marine fleet management system is to improve fleet management in terms of reduced fuel usage, maximized engine performance and controlled emissions within prescribed environmental limits.

Conclusion

The major component in determining the profitability of a marine fleet operation is fuel cost. Reduction in fuel costs will lead to higher margins of profit ensuring the sustainability of the fleet operation.

This can be achieved with continuous monitoring and precise calculations offered by the marine fleet management system.

The Impact of Poor Inventory Management in Fleet Management

Fleet managers need to juggle a lot of tasks every minute, with each being more important than the next. They need to make sure that the vehicles are dispatched on time and reach the destination on time. Simultaneously, they need to check the schedule, deal with drivers and immediately respond to emergencies. When they’re dealing with high-priority tasks, inventory management gets pushed to the bottom of the to-do list.

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Inventory management is not just keeping track of the spare parts, fuel, replacement parts and other supplies. It is also about optimizing the available supplies to improve the profit margin.

Signs of Poor Inventory Management

So, how do you find out if your fleet inventory management system is not working? Here are some tell-tale signs that will help you identify the same:

  • Waste of time because you spend a lot of time searching for the right parts
  • Increase in expenses related to purchasing of spare and replacement parts
  • Loss of warranty because of poor follow-up on claims
  • Unable to track asset movement
  • Your storage space is unorganized
  • Vehicle repairs take longer than usual because of the unavailability of the required parts
  • You don’t do any inventory audit
  • You have replacement parts that you no longer need

Impact of Poor Inventory Management

If you’ve noticed the above signs of poor inventory management, then you would have probably observed how it is affecting the bigger picture. Asset and stock management is one of the critical components of fleet management. And when the inventory is inefficiently managed, you can expect to see the following impacts on your fleet:

Increased Vehicle Downtime

Improper inventory management could lead to longer vehicle downtime. When you don’t know whether or not you have the required spare part, you spend a lot of time searching for it. Plus, if the storage is cluttered and if you don’t have any information about the purchase and use, the task becomes even more delayed.

So, until you find the essential part or buy it, the vehicle remains idle. The longer the vehicle is out of the road, the more losses your business will incur.

Inventory has useless and unwanted spare/replacement parts

Another direct impact of improper inventory management is having a large stock of parts that you no longer need. Maybe, you’ve updated the vehicle or you may have found a better functioning replacement. Having those unnecessary parts in stock can add to your costs.

Sometimes, you may have received spare parts with minor specification changes, which may not be useful for your needs. If they are identified immediately after the purchase, they can be exchanged with the supplier.

However, if you find that you have the wrong-size spare part after a few months, you can’t go back to the supplier and ask for an exchange. So, you would have spent a lot of money on parts that are technically useless.

Unavailability of necessary parts

A related impact of poor inventory management is not having the necessary replacement parts like brakes, filters and others when you need them. At such times, even minor repairs may take a long time as you need to wait for the parts to arrive. It will lead to vehicle downtime and ultimately a drop in the profit margin.

Lose your warranty/claim because of delays

The mechanics won’t know if particular parts are still under warranty. So, they may unknowingly get a new one instead of requesting for a claim. Without effective warranty tracking, you may lose thousands or more depending on the size of your fleet.

Unnecessary expenses

Poor inventory management could lead to a whole lot of unnecessary expenses. As we saw earlier, you may lose money in terms of unwanted parts, unclaimed warranty, and unavailability of the necessary spare parts.

Also, the mechanics will spend a lot of time searching for the right part, which leads to delay in vehicle repair or servicing, and in turn, leads to vehicle downtime. So, no matter how you look at it, inefficient inventory management can lead to a huge loss in the long run.

Loss of customer satisfaction

The biggest impact of poor stock management is poor customer satisfaction. Vehicle downtimes could lead to delays or changes in the schedule. Sometimes, you may need to send a different vehicle to the client, which may not be what they booked. Little things like this could build-up, leading to customer dissatisfaction.

How to Optimize Inventory Management

Now that we have a fair idea of how poor inventory management could lead to business loss, let’s look at the ways in which we can optimize the inventory management system.

Clear and declutter your warehouse/storage space

It’s easier to keep track of your assets when they are stored in the right place. Set up bins, shelves and compartments in your warehouse or workshop for compartmentalized storage of all the spare and replacement parts. It will be even better if you can arrange them in order bought so that the oldest ones are used first before their warranty runs out.

Use bright bold labels that make it easier for the technicians to find out where each part is. All this will help save time and effort in monitoring the assets. Also, the technicians will be able to find out which parts are running out and need to be purchased.

Use barcodes wherever possible

Reduce tracking errors by using barcodes as much as possible. When you purchase new parts, use a barcode reader to “read” all the specifications of the product and update it in your database. This method will make updating your inventory easy and quick. Also, you can quickly check the database to see if you have the requested spare/replacement part. If it is not there, you can immediately place an order for it.

Automate your inventory management system

The best solution for optimizing your inventory management system is by automating it. While decluttering and organizing makes it easy to find things and the barcode system enables you to update your database, automation takes care of the entire process. Once you make a purchase, the details are updated on the database.

This can be done using the barcode or by importing the information from your purchase order. All data such as the type and size of the part, date of purchase, warranty end date, and more can be updated on the database. You can then easily check the inventory based on the item, warranty, purchase date, and other parameters.

The automated system reduces the time and effort required to manually check for product availability. Also, when the spare parts are used, the system automatically updates your to-purchase list. So, you don’t need to worry about not having essential spare parts.

Effective Inventory Management with Fleet Management Software Solution

Our fleet management software solution has a top-notch inventory management system in place. This module works along with the other modules of fleet management to give you a comprehensive fleet inventory management solution. You can also customize the inventory management system based on your fleet size and business requirements.

Interested to know more about our fleet management solution? Contact us right away.

Fleet Dash Cams And Telematics – All You Need To Know

The dash cams fitted in fleets record high definition videos providing a clear view of events and driver behavior. Telematics in fleet management makes use of GPS and sensors to collect and transmit data to fleet operators to help them manage the fleet efficiently.

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The dash cams when integrated with the fleet telematics system ensures better fleet control and strengthens fleet safety. In addition to reducing the risk of accidents, the system helps in making the fleet cost-effective too.

DASH CAMS

Dash cams or dashboard cameras are installed inside the vehicle to continuously record the view outside the vehicle. Secondary cameras installed inside the vehicle record the interior view of the vehicle.

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Dash cams are installed in fleets where the management requires detailed analytics and performance solutions. Dash cameras integrated with vehicle telematics provide the user with deeper insights into operations.  

The videos coupled with the GPS tracking device can generate automated and customized reports. The visual data provided by dash cams help the fleet and safety managers in tracking and training.

Benefits of Dash Cams

  • Fleet operators get first-hand information of road conditions, risky and hazardous routes and delivery locations. This enables them to divert the vehicles on to other routes saving time and cost. The management gets instantaneous reports on traffic accidents and other untoward incidents prompting them to take immediate action.
  • The dash cams alert the driver of traffic hazards. Driver alertness and awareness leads to lesser accidents. Reduction in accidents will reduce insurance claims. This will consequently bring down insurance premium costs. In the event of accidents, the clear videos aid in proving who was at fault. The clear video evidence helps the insurance companies to do fast and speedy settlements of claims without dispute.
  • The fleet operators can log in to the dash cam platform and view the live status of the fleet. The vehicle can be tracked as it moves.  The location of each vehicle in the fleet is recorded by the camera in real-time and transmitted to the management.
  • The fleet managers can make spot-checks on new drivers to ensure safe driving habits. An errant driver can be pin-pointed immediately. Appropriate action can be initiated against the erring drivers without time delay. The safety managers can play back the videos to show the drivers their mistakes. Video evidences can help to exonerate drivers who are not at fault.
  • The videos can be used to coach the fleet to reduce rash and risky driving behavior. The system helps the fleet operator to recognize good drivers and reward them for their perfect driving skills.
  • The dash camera recording the interior views help in monitoring driver behavior – whether he was smoking, speaking on the phone, wearing a seat belt, or doing something which compromises the safety of the vehicle.

Types of Dash Cams

1: SD card based cameras store data on a normal SD. An SD card has no wireless connectivity. The fleet manager has to remove the SD card from the camera and plug it into a computer to download the footage recorded on the card.

The card has to be re-installed into the camera for further recording. The cards get damaged or even lost during this transfer process. The SD card has a limited storage capacity which will affect the quality and quantity of the video recordings. The hardware of SD card cameras is not very reliable. 

Read Also: How to Manage Fleet Downtime with Fleet Management

This camera may be cost effective for extremely small fleets. For larger fleets the manual operation is cumbersome and time consuming.

2: Connected cameras are connected through cellular networks and allow upload of data wirelessly. It performs like a normal cell phone. Network connected cameras work continuously giving instant access to recorded videos and telematics data.

Connected cameras transfer data through the cell network or through Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi connected cameras require an internet or hotspot to upload the data. Network connected wireless cameras have an edge over other cameras in the ease of accessing recorded footage and data.

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An accelerometer is incorporated in network connected dash cams, which allows triggers to be set to detect rash and risky driving. Immediate notifications are sent to the relevant personnel.

3: Multi-directional cameras are cameras that are front-facing, dual-facing, external, internal, or in-cab. A choice of cameras can be made depending on the type of data to be recorded.

4: Front-facing camera records whatever is in front. Dual facing cameras record the happenings in front of the vehicle and those inside the vehicle. In-cab cameras record the information in the driver’s cabin. Internal cameras focus on the driver and the passengers. External cameras are fitted on the exterior of the vehicle enabling the drivers to see around the vehicle. This will help in increasing driver accuracy and avoiding damage while turning or reversing.

Selection of An Appropriate Dash Cam

Management has to decide on what they hope to achieve by installing dash cams to finalize on the right features that have to be incorporated in to the equipment. Installing the right dash cam has a direct impact on a fleet’s safety and profit.

Choosing the right dash cam is of prime importance as it is a tool that will reduce claims and increase driver safety. The video evidence will reduce claim costs. Risky driving can be identified and necessary measures can be adopted to increase safety. The videos can be used effectively in coaching and training drivers.

An ideal dash cam should enable the user to instantly access accident and rash driving videos on a user friendly web platform. The system should enable customization of reporting. Above all, one has to ensure that the hardware is reliable.

Read Also: Advanced Fleet Management: What Is It?

The other factor to be addressed while selecting an apt dash cam is the operation and use of the cameras in the long run. Deciding on who all need access to the data, how they will utilize it for communication with the drivers, how the videos can be used to reduce costs and how they can be used in training are prime considerations in the selection of a dash cam.

Vehicle Telematics

Vehicle telematics is technology that combines, communication, navigation and safety aspects and which can be fitted in a vehicle’s dashboard. GPS tracking devices are linked to on board vehicle diagnostics in fleet telematics. The data generated is then transmitted by networks to fleet operators for real-time viewing.

Telematics is used to receive, store and transmit information from a vehicle to the control portals located at the offices of fleet managers. The GPS device connects the vehicle’s driving navigation systems, electronic diagnostic system, automated driving assistants, vehicle tracking software, car’s safety warning systems.

Benefits of vehicle telematics

  • The information generated by telematics help the fleet operators to optimize routes and reduce mileage. The fleet managers are informed of the locations of vehicles and the routes taken. Traffic hazards enroute and bad weather conditions are reported continuously.
  • System alerts when fuel is low, seatbelts are not worn, on over-speeding, on being towed away, when idling. Theft of vehicles is reported instantly. Geofencing alerts the users when the vehicle crosses the pre-determined limits of speed or distances.
  • The system can automatically detect collision and send a signal to the fleet operator. The sensors detect the extent of damage and injury to driver and passengers. This helps in instant summoning of medical attention to the scene.
  • The driver can request for any emergency road assistance. An SOS button on the system summons help in the case of breakdowns or medical assistance.
  • Areas of wastage which affects fuel efficiency can be identified. Speed of the vehicle and fuel consumed is recorded. Rash and harsh driving can be detected. Frequent breaking and acceleration which is harmful to the vehicle is identified. Vehicle idle time and driver downtime reports are automatically generated.
  • The hours of use and engine conditions recorded by the fleet telematics system help in scheduling preventive maintenance of the vehicles. Warranty and service records are automatically updated. The system keeps track of engine conditions. Impending maintenance and breakdown issues are alerted.
  • The continuous feedback on driver habits and driving style helps to improve safety. Coaching and training of drivers to avoid undesirable behavior can be initiated promptly. Good drivers can be rewarded.
  • The system is a great help in payroll management. The automated reports, on the years of employment of drivers, and the days and hours worked each day, eliminate the need of manual logbooks and timesheets.

Selection of a telematics system

The data generated by the telematics system help the fleet managers in implementing operational improvements to increase the productivity of the fleet. Vehicle telematics aids in saving time and reducing expenses considerably.

The factors to be considered when selecting a telematics system are:

  • The company providing the system should have a track record with suitable technical backup. Customer service and after-sales support has to be ensured.
  • The system interface should be user-friendly. A superior tracking system which cannot be used easily navigated by all concerned will prove useless.
  • System capability and reliability is of utmost importance. Reporting should be accurate and instantaneous. Customized reporting should be possible.
  • The system should be flexible to suit the fleet requirements in the future. The software should not be limited in capacity. It should have the capability to be upgraded as and when the need arises.
  • The system should use a multi-SIM network so that coverage is ensured in low signal or network congested areas.

When fleet operators require more detailed data than that generated by telematics, they can combine telematics with dash cameras. This can be done by the selection of appropriate dash cams suited to the fleet’s requirements.

The answer to a superior safety solution for the fleet lies in creating a perfect video telematics system.  It has been proved that the return on investment is high as compared to the costs involved. The information generated helps the management to optimize their operations, increase efficiency, reduce costs and increase the safety of the fleet.

What Is Reckless Driving? How Can Your Tracking System Prevent It?

Traffic accidents on the road are most often caused due to the negligence of the drivers. Reckless driving without adherence to the traffic rules and regulations is a major concern for the traffic departments world-wide.

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An automated GPS tracking system in combination with vehicle telematics when installed in the vehicle helps the traffic personnel, fleet operators and company administrations in identifying the errant drivers. The tracking system helps in identifying reckless driving, cautioning offenders and implementing penalties instantaneously.

What Is Reckless Driving?

Reckless driving can be termed as rash or negligent driving. The driver drives the vehicle with total disregard for traffic rules and regulations intentionally. This willful act of indifference endangers the passengers, other vehicles, pedestrians and property.

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Reckless driving does not confine to over-speeding alone.  Paying little or no regard to traffic rules, signals, signs and laws also come under reckless driving. The high speeds and dangerous driving cause serious injury and even death. The driver himself is at high risk and the extent of damage to the vehicle can be immense.

When Is Driving Termed Reckless

  • Crossing the speed limits specified or sign posted limits
  • Non-adherence to traffic signs and signals, red lights and stop signs
  • Disregard for oncoming traffic, right-of-way for vehicles and pedestrians
  • Tailgating or driving too close to the vehicle in front
  • Weaving in and out through traffic
  • Overtaking dangerously or from the wrong side
  • Driving into areas not designated for vehicles like pavements, sidewalks
  • Racing vehicles on the road
  • The crossing of double yellow lines on a highway
  • Overtaking a stationary school bus picking up students
  • Speaking on a phone or texting while driving, fiddling with the radio, eating
  • Disobeying instructions by traffic personnel on the road

Prevention Of Reckless Driving

  • The key to the prevention of reckless driving is to ensure that drivers understand the full implications of reckless driving. Drivers need to be aware of the fact that reckless driving is a serious violation of traffic regulations. Unlike inappropriate and careless driving, reckless driving is considered a criminal offense.
  • The performance of the drivers needs to be evaluated on a continuous basis. This will help in identifying areas where the drivers need additional training. Their performance can be rated and compared with their earlier performance to ensure improvement in driving habits. The tracking system generates a Driver Scorecard which makes this evaluation easy.
  • A comprehensive training program for the drivers has to be devised. Regular training programs have to be conducted for drivers. Topics on awareness of traffic rules, reckless driving, road rage, the seriousness of driving under the influence of alcohol, etc. should be focused on in training programs.
  • Technology has developed fleet management systems which will help in tackling reckless driving. The system detects over-speeding and traffic violations instantaneously. The system allows the analysis of driver behavior. This is communicated to the traffic authorities or fleet operators continuously.
  • Installing a vehicle telematics system in the vehicle will make the driver more accountable for his behavior on road. He will adhere to safe driving practices and be more alert to situations around him.
  • Routing of vehicles must be optimized to prevent fatigue in drivers. Trips have to be scheduled so that the driver meets his timeline as well as get enough rest before the next trip.
  • A properly spaced delivery schedule will enable the driver to deliver on time without having him driving recklessly to meet schedules. This will increase the efficiency and speed of operations.
  • Drivers have to primarily understand the importance of time management. This will help avoid over-speeding and reckless driving to a large extent.
  • All countries have their own set of rules, stipulations and penalty systems for traffic offenders.  The penalties imposed vary depending on the seriousness of the offense.

Common penalties are:

  • Traffic fines
  • Suspension of driving license
  • Impounding of the vehicle
  • Black points on the drivers’ record
  • Arrest and jail sentences
  • The drivers have to be clearly informed of the penalties involved in violating traffic regulations. The knowledge of stipulated fines and jail terms will be a deterrent to negligent driving.
  • The increased repair charges due to reckless driving prompt auto insurance companies to raise their rates. The insurance rates are hiked as high as 87.5%.

How Can Your Tracking System Prevent It?

A GPS tracking system combined with dash cameras and vehicle telematics provides the most effective solution to reckless driving. An advanced tracking system tracks the fleet’s real-time on-road and records driver behavior continuously.

Read Also: 31 Ways to Reduce Fleet Maintenance Costs

The system reports behavior indicative of rash driving like speeding, sudden acceleration and braking, sharp turning and cornering. The fleet managers or traffic personnel can use this data to evaluate drivers, provide additional training, sets incentives for safe drivers and penalties for dangerous drivers.

The GPS tracking system tracks the vehicle’s position at anytime on the road. The tracking system is two-way- communicating with the fleet operators as well as the drivers. The system alerts the driver to traffic blocks on his route, hazardous routes and inclement weather conditions. The driver receives communications sent by the fleet managers for changes in route or delivery.   

Similarly, the fleet operators receive reports on the speed of the vehicle, the location and time of arrival and departure at the destination. Reports on the routes taken, the distance travelled, speed, fuel consumed, etc are generated.

The system can be programmed to alert the fleet managers of irresponsible driving behavior -rash driving, over speeding, harsh braking, and sudden acceleration by the drivers. This data enables the management to identify errant drivers and communicate their lapses immediately. Drivers can be corrected and serious offenders can be penalized without inordinate delay.

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The common undesirable driving habits are sudden breaking, jerking while starting, idling during stops and speeding when running late. The tracking system enables each factor to be addressed separately. The fleet managers can set automated alerts for deviations from the driving rules set by them.

The driver reports created can help to identify drivers who are the most negligent. Personalized improvement plans can be designed to point out their faults and educate them on safe driving practices. An individual driver’s performance can be compared over different periods of time to assess improvement. One-to-one coaching is found to be very helpful.

The tracking system reviews the vehicle’s performance data periodically and schedules preventive maintenance. This allows the fleet managers to attend to the routine maintenance and repairs more effectively. Well maintained vehicles reduce the risk of breakdowns.

Vehicle abuse by drivers increases maintenance costs. Maintenance expenses constitute a major part of overhead costs. Continuous monitoring of this type of abuse is essential to reduce the wear and tear of the vehicles. This directly results in saving money and reducing downtime of the vehicles.

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The geo-fencing feature of the tracking system safe guards the vehicle from being used for notorious activities. The fleet managers are alerted when the vehicle crosses the virtual fence set around the vehicle. This feature helps in tracking a vehicle if stolen.

The dash cameras installed on the dashboard of a vehicle record all events happening inside and outside the vehicle. The information recorded on these devices is relayed by the tracking telematics system to the fleet controllers. The necessary corrective actions can be taken without delay.

The advantage of dashcams lies in the real-time video footage recorded. The footage provides clear proof in cases of accidents, thus reducing insurance disputes. The videos recorded can also be used in the training of drivers where they can observe the results of negligent driving.

Visually showing the drivers the actual video footage of the errors combined with the data reported makes the training easier and understandable. Real-time incidents and examples have a far more impact on improving driver performance than theoretical lectures by itself.

Monitoring, training, preventing and correction of driving patterns are the most critical factors in fleet management. The simplest and most efficient way to do this is by installing appropriate fleet tracking systems. The GPS tracking system and dash cams when integrated with vehicle diagnostics provide the most powerful tool in fleet tracking.  

The vehicles using the tracking system have a lower risk of accidents and injuries. The alerts set in the systems warn the drivers immediately if they have overlooked any safety regulations. When drivers know that their behavior is being monitored they tend to be more careful and responsible while driving.

Conclusion

Since reckless driving can lead to loss of life or livelihood, driving with discipline and without distractions is of prime importance. Ongoing training for drivers is essential as safe driving is a mindset that has to be developed and nurtured in the long run.

How to Optimize Your Fleet Management with a Car Rental Software

How many cars do you have in your fleet? 5? 15? 50? If you have just 5 cars, then you may be able to manually keep track of all the bookings, the locations of the cars, and the maintenance schedule. When you have 15 cars, it can get very difficult to monitor all the vehicles in your fleet and keep track of all the drivers’ schedules. Whether you have 5 or 50 cars in your fleet, a car rental software can help you effectively optimize your fleet management.

Not just that, this software application can enhance your fleet performance and reduce downtime. Let’s look more into detail about how a car rental software can help optimize your fleet management.

Reservation management

The software has an availability calendar that gives you a detailed view of the availability status of the drivers and all the cars in your fleet. You can get details of the exact location of the car and check when it will be free for use. The software also gives you details on whether a particular car is on road, idling, parked, or down for maintenance.

Read Also: How to Manage Fleet Downtime with Fleet Management

All the information regarding vehicle utilization will make it easy for you to manage car reservations based on customer’s needs and preferences. The automated reservation management system saves lots of work hours and reduces errors such as parallel booking and overbooking. You can also use the software to generate an agreement summary to share with the customer.

Track all the cars in your fleet in real-time

The car rental software allows GPS tracking of all the cars in your fleet. So, you will have accurate details of the exact location of the car at any point in time. The tracking feature enables location profitability. When you get a reservation request from a customer, you can check the location tracking details to find out which is the closest vehicle.

It will save miles as well as fuel usage. Also, the customer can get the vehicle quickly, which will add stars to your car rental service. This location tracking feature also enhances convenience for the customers. After they’ve booked a car, they will know approximately when they can expect it for pickup.

Check the condition of the car before and after renting

A mobile camera app can be used to check the condition of the car before pick up and after drop. The visual data will let you virtually inspect the vehicle for any damages. In case, there are any problems with the car, then these photos can help you identify how and when the problem started.
Set up a preventive maintenance program

One of the biggest benefits of using a car rental software to optimize your fleet management is the preventive maintenance feature. When you start using the application, you need to update details of the vehicle make and service history. The app will then automatically send maintenance notifications after 5k or 10k kilometers or fuel usage.

You can also update the calendar with the manufacturer-recommended service schedule. So, you don’t miss out on the services and keep your vehicle in good running condition. The software also helps you set up a form that drivers can use to update vehicle condition details. For example, if they feel that the engine is getting hot very soon or see the stitches coming out of the upholstery, they can update the form.

The fleet manager can cross verify the details given by the drivers and arrange for a service at the earliest. Preventive maintenance helps reduce vehicle downtime, which will be profitable for your business.

Build a geofence

Create a virtual geofence using the software application. The geofence can be based on the areas where you provide a car rental service. It can be the city, district, or state. If the vehicle goes out of the virtual fence, then you will receive an alert. The geofence helps prevent unauthorized vehicle use and also ensures the safety of the customer.

Manage Finances

Managing finances is one of the most vital tasks of any business. The car rental software helps you manage your accounts payable and receivable. You can calculate commission whether you offer standard or flexible rates and also check for additional payments.

Read Also: Top 10 Benefits of Mobile Apps in Fleet Management

The software keeps track of expenses due to repair, service, purchase of spare parts, driver salary, fines, toll payments, etc. It also helps you raise invoices and trace pending payments from customers. If you have standard payments such as EMIs and insurance, then the software can be programmed to give you notifications.

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As all the invoices and bills are dated and tracked, there will be no room for error in the finance management. You will also be able to identify areas of unnecessary expenses and cut down on them.

Manage Your Car Rental Website

In this digital era, a website is mandatory for any business. You can link the software with your website to manage web-based booking. The software also helps you share details regarding subscriptions, offers and promos on your website. Conduct marketing campaigns and offer quotes to customers using the software on your website.

Manage subscription plans

If you offer subscription-based car rental services, then this software will be very useful for you. It helps you keep track of the subscription availed by the customers. When the subscription time is coming to a close, it will send automatic notifications and reminders.

You can even setup an option to automatically renew the subscription. The software also makes it easy for customers to upgrade or downgrade the plan based on their requirements. The payment cycle will also be maintained based on subscription plans.

Monitor driver behaviour

Driver behaviour is one of the key parameters that customers use to evaluate your car rental services. Secondly, good driving keeps your vehicle in top condition. Rash driving and over-speeding can lead to accidents, which is detrimental to your business, both in terms of customer relationship and profit margin.

The software tracks distance travelled and speed of the vehicle, which will let you know if the driver was over speeding. Also, the number of repairs due to accidents or unnecessary replacements will let you know if the driving was careless. Using all this data, you can evaluate driver behaviour.

You can also integrate a feedback form on your website or app where customers can share their feedback regarding the driver and driving performance. The software also helps track driver attendance and punctuality.

Get Reports

The dashboard of the software application gives you a snapshot of the vital details of all the cars in your fleet. You can check details of the overall vehicle health, number of trips, distance travelled, locations, fuel usage as well as pickup and drop points.

Analyzing this data will help you identify the top-performing and low performing vehicles in your fleet. Also, it will let you know where the unnecessary expenses are coming in. By collating all this data, you will be able to evaluate the performance of your fleet.

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The reports also come handy when you need to present data about the car rental service to the stakeholders or potential investors.

Conclusion

A car rental software solution helps automate repetitive tasks related to day-to-day operations and fleet management. The reports generated by the software will give you a clear and unbiased view of the performance of every car in your fleet.

Manually handling all these tasks is not only time consuming, but also prone to errors. Reduce the time required to manually oversee fleet management with automated software, so you can focus on building your business.

7 Important Tips For Optimized Fleet Maintenance

Companies that operate fleets spend large amounts of money on vehicle maintenance. This is essential for them to keep their businesses going. Optimized Fleet maintenance is not just a business function.

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It has a key role to play in the commercial and economic activities of a nation, especially fleets consisting of trailers, trucks, and off-road vehicles for transporting goods. Therefore, maintenance of the fleet vehicles is essential to support the growth of the fleet operators’ business and economic advancement of a country.

As maintenance of vehicles is an expensive affair, most companies tend to cut corners and postpone or resort to quick fixes. This often leads to an increase in downtime and higher expenditure in the long run.

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Fleet operators who understand the consequences of not completing maintenance jobs on time focus on optimizing their fleet maintenance activities and reap the benefits. If you are a fleet operator, read on to get some useful tips on optimizing fleet maintenance.

Fleet Maintenance – What Is It

Before understanding as to how you can optimize your fleet’s maintenance, it is important to have a clear idea as to what constitutes fleet maintenance. As a fleet owner, you need to schedule routine checking of your vehicles to understand the condition of the various parts of the vehicles in your fleet.

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This is essential to keep the vehicles in good running condition and reduce downtime. This also ensures the proper maintenance of the workflow of your business. Regular or preventive maintenance checks of your vehicles enable you to spot problems early and take timely action.

Washing the vehicles regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt and ensuring that all accessories and maintenance tools are in good working condition are also part and parcel of fleet maintenance activities.

Top Tips For Optimizing Fleet Maintenance

Fleet maintenance may be a mundane task, but it should not be neglected. It keeps the productivity of your enterprise at the optimum level. Having said that here are a few tips for optimizing fleet maintenance:

Select Appropriate Vehicles

Optimization of fleet maintenance starts with the selection of the appropriate vehicles for meeting your requirements. If you do not choose the right vehicles, you will end up spending a lot of money on maintenance and even fail in meeting your delivery commitments.

In addition to losing your clients, you will also have to suffer financial losses in the long run. When you choose the right vehicles, you will be able to utilize them better and save both time and money.

Employ Telematics To Automate Fleet Maintenance

The best way to optimize fleet maintenance is to use the telematics system. It helps to automate most of the mundane tasks. It is not impossible but it is very challenging to do it manually. The use of technology eliminates human errors and makes fleet maintenance more efficient.

The telematics system helps you to monitor the operation and performance of each vehicle in your fleet with the help of both computer and mobile applications. These applications notify you when there is a problem with the performance of a vehicle or when it is misused in any manner. This also ensures the security of your vehicle in the fleet.

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The fleet telematics system also informs you as to how and when you can schedule maintenance jobs so that you can ensure that the vehicles are maintained at the optimum operating condition. This goes a long way in increasing the productivity of your fleet.

The applications enable fleet owners to get a clear idea of the maintenance cost involved and this helps them to eliminate the possibility of maintenance scams. As such, a fleet telematics system automates most of the functions of your business and enables you to reduce losses and enhance your overall profits.

Optimal Utilization of Vehicles

You can drastically minimize the need for unnecessary and unexpected maintenance through planning and proper utilization of the vehicles and keeping track of the load being carried by each vehicle. It also pays to have a clear idea of the routes and terrain through which the vehicles have to travel at the time of planning the schedules.

Keeping in view factors such as the terrain, topology, and the accessories that are needed to be loaded into your vehicles will be of great help in reducing the wearing out of your vehicles. If you load the vehicles more than the specified limits, there is no doubt that they will wear out faster and they will have to be taken to the repair shops for maintenance more frequently.

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Increased downtime of the vehicles adversely affects their utilization. This, in turn, impacts productivity and the bottom line of your business.

Create A Maintenance Operations Control List

As a fleet operator, you must create a checklist of the various maintenance operations that need to be carried out on each vehicle in the fleet. This is to ensure that no aspects are overlooked and tasks are carried out systematically.

A checklist is also helpful in the early detection of issues with your vehicles and proactively taking action to rectify the problems. In addition to speeding up the maintenance process, it also enables you to reduce downtime and improve vehicle utilization.

When creating the checklist, you must keep the manufacturer’s specifications in this regard in mind. This is because the requirements for each type of vehicle are different.

Preventive maintenance, which involves periodic inspection as well as timely service, eliminates 50 percent of the maintenance issues. Preventive maintenance checks include inspecting wheels and checking alignment, applying lubricants at appropriate intervals, and checking hydraulic and transmission systems, among others.

Allocate the Maintenance Tasks

Allocating the various maintenance tasks to different staff members helps to improve the availability of the vehicles in your fleet. Also, it helps to streamline the maintenance workflow and asset utilization. Further, the allocation of maintenance tasks to different specialized groups ensures that no issues are left out because of oversight.

Formulating a stringent compliance policy would be of great help in this regard. Educate the drivers about your company’s policies concerning the fleet operation and empower them to comply not only with company rules but also road laws.

Develop A Plan Based On the Needs of Your Business

When developing a fleet maintenance plan, it is crucial to keep the needs of your business in mind. Most fleet operators lose money due to the downtime of their vehicles in the fleet. This is because they fail to carry out important business tasks on time due to maintenance downtime.

This can adversely affect your company’s customer base and you may even lose out to your competitors. You can avoid such pitfalls by scheduling the maintenance operations, keeping your customers’ demand trend in mind. In this regard, it is worth considering factors like seasonal demands, customer preferences, and workforce availability when scheduling fleet maintenance work.

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If you do it in a systematic and organized manner, the downtime of your vehicles will not adversely impact your business activities.

Provide Training and Encourage Transparent Communication

When it comes to optimizing fleet maintenance, training has an important role to play. You must train the drivers to operate the vehicles they are attached to most properly. They should also be educated in using the latest technologies that you have deployed for optimizing fleet maintenance.

Transparent and timely communication are also important factors that impact fleet maintenance optimization. They help you to eliminate unexpected vehicle breakdowns and downtimes. Drivers should be sensitized to immediately inform you about the maintenance requirements of the vehicles they drive.

Read Also: How to Optimize Your Fleet Operations with Reports

Moreover, trained drivers may be able to resolve some minor issues during a trip itself. Further, sharing information about the need for route changes and completing additional emergency tasks, etc., will go a long way in optimizing fleet operation.

Final Thoughts

Fleet maintenance management is no longer a challenging task. You can take the help of technology. The tips given above will be of great help to you in improving the efficiency of your vehicle maintenance optimization efforts.