10 Qualities of Highly Effective Fleet Managers

The fleet management market is expected to reach nearly US$29 billion by 2030, up from the current valuation of US$10.1 billion. Fleet management helps maximize efficiency, increase productivity, and improve safety for a company’s vehicles and drivers. It is essential to have a fleet manager who can lead the fleet team and the drivers to achieve success on all the above fronts. Let’s learn more about the top qualities you should look for in a fleet manager.

Top Qualities of Highly Successful Fleet Managers

1) Focus on Driver Safety Policy

Ensuring driver and vehicle safety is the number one priority for a fleet manager. They need to be proactive and help drivers with the necessary tools to keep them safe while they are on the road. Providing drivers with tools like an in-cab camera or hands-free device is essential to avoid significant expenses caused due to bad driver behavior or accidents. Moreover, they also need to invest in software that monitors driver-behavior and offers e-logging solutions.

2) Simplify Vehicle Maintenance

Fleet managers should be proactive about vehicle maintenance. They need to keep track of vehicle inspection and do routine servicing and maintenance of the fleet using cloud-based fleet management software. Some apps also offer timely reminders for vehicle servicing along. They also need to train drivers about routine vehicle management.

3) Adapt to Newer Technologies

According to a report from Berg Insights, the number of commercial fleets using fleet management software is expected to grow to over 16 million by 2022. Fleet management software offers critical features like real-time vehicle tracking, vehicle maintenance alerts, route optimization, and more. A great fleet manager embraces new technologies and stays updated with new functionalities.

Also read – Top fleet management KPIs you should not miss

4) Measure and Leverage Data

Effective fleet managers are successful in leveraging crucial data and metrics. It is vital to track and measure the specific data that is useful for fleet management. Several fleet management solutions offer key data insights like cost per mile, fuel efficiency, depreciation, and accident rate. It is essential to monitor metrics as they help in tracking the progress.

5) Manage Guidelines for Fleet Vehicle Purchasing

It is crucial to set up consistent purchasing guidelines as different departments may purchase vehicles for short term use and increase expenses. Great fleet managers will know the exact reason for buying a vehicle that meets the fleet requirement. They will look out for bulk purchasing and concessions and ensure it fits in the budget.

6) Updated About Latest Trends

Effective fleet managers need to be updated about the latest trends in the ever-changing fleet industry. They also know about the latest federal and state regulations for commercial vehicles and drivers. They keep up with the latest trends in the fleet management industry by reading useful articles or subscribing to informative newsletters.

7) Attend Events and Join Fleet Associations

It is essential to be involved in the fleet industry and join associations and knowledge groups to provide good networking opportunities for fleet managers. The main objective is to develop a deep understanding of the fleet industry and be aware of the new ideas and development that could influence your operation.

8) Innovative

Like other fields, fleet managers should be innovative and develop new ideas for the changing trends in fleet management. Good fleet managers are proactive and have the vision to anticipate challenges and opportunities. It is essential to have a blend of analytical and conceptual abilities to implement innovative initiatives to better the fleet management industry.

9) Goal-oriented

Fleet managers that focus on key metrics like fuel monitoring, fleet productivity, costs, driver safety, and management of operating expenses are necessary to have a successful fleet management system. They work towards achieving specific results and ensure productivity by focusing on these goals.

10) Be in Sync With Company Goals

The successful fleet managers are in sync with their company’s goal and vision. They are focused on learning about fleet optimization and ensure there is no wastage. Also, they link strategic business objectives to fleet management and are customer-driven.

Great fleet managers know how to multi-task and juggle their responsibilities seamlessly. Fleet management is a dynamic field where necessary time management skills are also essential, along with various technical skills.

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Sneha Bokil

Sneha is a Content Strategy Lead at Dista. She is responsible for all things content and works closely with the product team. In her spare time, you can find her talking about plants, podcasts, and her next travel plans.