Tracking fleet data is an integral part of every fleet manager’s job. With modern technology, there is more data to follow than ever. This data can be overwhelming, but it’s actually a good thing! With fleet tracking, managers can learn more about their fleets than ever before if they know how to take advantage of the data. Find out what data you should be tracking and how it benefits your fleet.
Location
The most apparent aspect of fleet tracking is the location of each fleet vehicle and asset. Fleet managers have many vehicles to keep track of, and it’s impossible to know where they all are without fleet tracking. Real-time fleet tracking uses the vehicle’s telematics system to tell the fleet tracking software where the vehicle is. This feature is useful for tracking where a vehicle is and for taking advantage of tools like route optimization and geofencing.
Route optimization uses artificial intelligence, machine learning, and algorithms to create the most cost-effective route to a driver’s destination. It can take into account real-time traffic and road conditions and even adjust on the fly. This means your drivers will always have the most efficient and safest routes.
Meanwhile, geofencing creates a virtual perimeter around a physical location. Whenever a driver exits that perimeter, the system sends an alert to the fleet manager. These features are immensely beneficial for fleets daily, and without fleet tracking, they would be impossible.
Driver Safety
Driver safety is a top priority for any fleet business. If drivers are safe, the fleet is effective, the company upholds a positive reputation, and best of all, the drivers are happy. Telematics can track driver behaviors like speeding, rapid acceleration, distraction, drowsiness, and more. Fleet managers can even gamify this data with rewards programs like Azuga’s driver rewards. This system tracks driver behaviors and assigns each driver a score. The drivers with the highest scores are eligible for gift card prizes. This program encourages friendly competition and for drivers to do their best behind the wheel. When drivers are safer, fleets have a better reputation and save money, avoiding costly accidents.
Maintenance
Maintenance is a necessary part of a fleet manager’s job. However, keeping track of every vehicle’s maintenance needs can be tedious and time-consuming. Luckily, telematics can help! Telematics tracks a vehicle’s status and alerts managers when a part needs care. With fleet management software, fleet managers can even set up routine maintenance alerts. Preventative maintenance saves fleets thousands of dollars by helping to avoid breakdowns and even accidents. It is a valuable tool for fleets of any size.
Inspection Results
Of course, every fleet is familiar with Daily Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs). DVIRs used to be done with pen and paper, but now the results can be logged directly into fleet management software. These inspections can then be tracked to come up with detailed reports that show common problems and patterns that come up frequently. Fleet management software like Azuga allows you to make custom reports that track critical issues and analyze frequent failures.
Asset Tracking
Asset tracking has many benefits for fleets. Keeping track of everything manually is nearly impossible and a process that is prone to error. Modern GPS-based asset tracking takes the guesswork out of the equation. First and foremost, asset tracking prevents theft. If an asset is not where it is supposed to be, fleet managers can tell police exactly where it is, heightening the chances of a safe recovery. However, theft prevention is not the only benefit of asset tracking. Knowing what’s on hand prevents fleet managers from accidentally buying duplicate equipment and wasting money. Furthermore, fleet management software can create reports that tell fleet managers which assets the fleet puts to use and which are just sitting in the warehouse. Unused assets can be sold and replaced with something useful, saving money and maximizing efficiency.
Fuel Usage
Fuel is a high cost for any fleet company. It’s an inevitable cost of business, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t savings to be had. Telematics can find signs of excessive idling, low tire pressure, or other factors that can hurt fuel efficiency. These are actionable problems that fleet managers can solve with maintenance or fleet tracking. Other solutions such as route planning and routine maintenance ensure fuel savings as well. Fleet managers can also link fleet management software with fuel cards to track fuel usage and ensure they are getting the most out of their savings.
Conclusion
Fleet tracking data is a significant part of fleet management. Without it, fleets would not be nearly as efficient or productive as they are today. If you are still managing with pen and paper, it may be time to upgrade. Telematics and fleet management software work wonders towards simplifying data collection and optimizing fleet activity. Reach out to Azuga today to find out what options are available to you and get started gathering fleet data today!
