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FLEET SERVICING MONTH: Navigating a route to your perfect partners

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
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For Fleet Managers, sourcing and selecting the right vehicle servicing and maintenance partners is pivotal for ensuring fleet efficiency, safety, and longevity. This process requires careful consideration and strategic decision-making. Here are some top tips to guide Fleet Managers in making informed choices when it comes to servicing and maintenance partners, based on input from attendees at the Fleet Summit…

1. Prioritise Quality and Expertise

First and foremost, the quality of service should be at the forefront of your decision. Look for partners with a proven track record in handling vehicles similar to those in your fleet. Check for certifications or accreditations that indicate they adhere to high standards. A partner with specific expertise in your fleet’s makes and models can offer more specialised service and advice.

2. Consider the Scope of Services Offered

Assess the range of services offered by potential partners. It’s beneficial to choose a provider who can handle a comprehensive array of maintenance needs – from routine servicing to more complex repairs. This can reduce the need to use multiple providers, simplifying logistics and potentially reducing costs.

3. Evaluate Response Times and Flexibility

In fleet management, downtime is a critical factor. Select a service provider who can guarantee quick response times and flexible scheduling. Partners who can offer mobile servicing or on-site repairs can further minimise downtime.

4. Assess Location and Accessibility

Consider the geographical coverage of the servicing partner. Ideally, they should be conveniently located in relation to your fleet’s operational base or the routes frequently travelled. Accessibility is key for timely servicing and in case of emergency repairs.

5. Look for Cost Efficiency

While quality should never be compromised for cost, it’s important to consider the financial aspect of servicing and maintenance contracts. Compare different providers on their pricing structures. Look for transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Also, consider negotiating contracts that offer value for money for routine servicing requirements.

6. Review Feedback and References

Do your due diligence by reviewing feedback from other clients and asking for references. This can give you insights into the provider’s reliability, quality of service, and customer service ethos.

7. Prioritise Communication and Customer Service

Good communication is crucial. Choose a partner who is communicative and proactive about maintenance schedules, servicing updates, and any issues that arise. A provider who is a good communicator can greatly ease the management process.

8. Technology Integration

In an era where technology is integral to fleet management, select a service provider who utilises modern technology. This includes digital service records, real-time tracking of maintenance work, and online booking systems.

9. Sustainability Considerations

With increasing focus on environmental responsibility, consider the sustainability practices of the servicing partner. Partners who use environmentally friendly practices and materials can help your fleet in reducing its environmental footprint.

Conclusion

Selecting the right vehicle servicing and maintenance partner is a critical decision for UK Fleet Managers. It requires a balance of quality service, cost efficiency, accessibility, and technological capability. By carefully evaluating potential partners against these criteria, Fleet Managers can ensure their fleet remains efficient, safe, and well-maintained, supporting the overall success of their operations.

Are you looking for Servicing & Maintenance solutions for your Fleet? The Fleet Summit can help!

FLEET SERVICING MONTH: The evolving approaches to maintenance in fleet management

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
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How Fleet Managers approach servicing and maintenance has undergone considerable evolution over the last 10 years, especially as we move towards an increasingly electrified, low emissions future. Staying abreast of these changes is crucial for ensuring efficiency, minimising downtime, and extending the lifespan of vehicles. Here we explore how approaches to servicing and maintenance are impacting the sector, based on input for attendees at the Fleet Summit…

1. Predictive Maintenance

Traditionally, fleet maintenance was largely reactive or based on predetermined schedules. However, the advent of predictive maintenance marks a significant shift. This approach utilises data analytics and monitoring tools to predict when a vehicle might need servicing. By analysing data such as mileage, engine usage, and driving patterns, Fleet Managers can anticipate potential issues before they become problematic. This shift from reactive to predictive maintenance helps in reducing unexpected breakdowns and prolonging vehicle life.

2. Integration of Telematics

The integration of telematics has been pivotal in transforming fleet maintenance strategies. Telematics systems provide real-time data on vehicle performance, enabling more precise and timely maintenance interventions. This technology allows for the monitoring of various parameters such as fuel usage, engine temperature, and tyre pressure, facilitating immediate action when anomalies are detected. As a result, telematics has not only improved vehicle maintenance but also enhanced overall fleet efficiency and safety.

3. Emphasis on Sustainability

There is a growing emphasis on sustainability in fleet maintenance. Fleet Managers are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy sources, recycling parts, and opting for biodegradable lubricants. Additionally, there is a push towards electric vehicles (EVs) in fleets, which introduces new maintenance dynamics. EVs typically require less maintenance than traditional vehicles, altering the nature and frequency of servicing needed.

4. Compliance and Regulation

The regulatory landscape in the UK, particularly regarding emissions and safety standards, has significantly influenced fleet maintenance practices. Fleet Managers must ensure that vehicles comply with stringent regulations, including those related to the Euro 6 standards for diesel vehicles and MOT tests. Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in substantial penalties and operational setbacks.

5. Adoption of Mobile Maintenance Services

Another notable trend is the rise of mobile maintenance services. These services bring the maintenance to the fleet, rather than vehicles being sent to a service centre. This approach minimises downtime, as servicing and repairs can be conducted during off-hours or in locations that do not disrupt the fleet’s operations.

6. Enhanced Focus on Driver Training

Finally, the role of driver behaviour in vehicle maintenance has gained recognition. Fleet Managers are investing more in driver training programmes that emphasise efficient driving techniques to reduce wear and tear on vehicles. Educating drivers about the importance of regular checks and maintenance can also play a significant role in preventative care.

The approach to servicing and maintenance in UK fleet management has evolved to become more predictive, data-driven, and sustainable. These changes are propelled by advancements in technology, regulatory demands, and a growing awareness of environmental impact. By embracing these developments, Fleet Managers can optimise their operations, reduce costs, and contribute to a greener future.

Do you need Fleet Servicing and Maintenance solutions for your organisation? The Fleet Summit can help! 

Photo by Jimmy Nilsson Masth on Unsplash

Do you specialise in fleet Fleet Service, Maintenance & Repair solutions? We want to hear from you!

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
By:

Each month on Fleet Management Briefing we’re shining the spotlight on a different part of the fleet market – and in November we’ll be focussing on Service, Maintenance & Repair solutions.

It’s all part of our ‘Recommended’ editorial feature, designed to help fleet buyers find the best products and services available today.

So, if you’re a supplier of Service, Maintenance & Repair solutions and would like to be included as part of this exciting new shop window, we’d love to hear from you – for more info, contact Chris Cannon on 01992 374096 / c.cannon@forumevents.co.uk.

Here’s our features list in full:

Dec – Service, Maintenance & Repair
Jan 24 – Electric & Hybrid Vehicles
Feb 24 – Dash Cams
Mar 24 – Driver Training
Apr 24 – Accident & Risk Management
May 24 – Fleet Management Software
Jun 24 – Telematics/Tracking
Jul 24 – Contract Hire & Leasing
Aug 24 – LPG/Alternative Fuel & Fuel Management
Sept 24 – EV Infrastructure
Oct 24 – Duty of Care
Nov 24 – Grey Fleet

Photo by Ville Kaisla on Unsplash

Reflex Vehicle Hire keeps fleets on the road as suppliers struggle with service, maintenance and repair demand

 960 640 Guest Post
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By Reflex Vehicle Hire

Reflex Vehicle Hire is keeping our fleet customers on the road with online service booking and mobile maintenance as companies report they are struggling with a shortage of garage SMR capacity for their own vehicles…

Fleet operators are experiencing issues booking service, maintenance and repair (SMR) work or MOTs as the garage network struggles to meet demand after lockdown.

More than 40% of fleets have experienced problems since garages reopened following their forced closure during the national lockdown.

Fleet operators say they are facing long waits before vehicles can be fixed, leading to increased vehicle off-road time and higher associated costs.

One Fleet Manager said: “It’s a nightmare getting the main dealers to give us a booking any quicker than two to three weeks. If a warning light comes on, such as for brakes, we end up with a vehicle off the road because we can’t get it seen to.”

Reflex Vehicle Hire is protecting customers from any problems through its award-winning in-house service engineers. They are supported by our mobile servicing fleet, which brings the garage to our customers to keep them on the road.

Our teams can visit customers’ premises, carry out work on vehicles at drivers’ homes, or even visit sites to carry out work during the day.

Our mobile operation covers nearly 700,000 miles each year delivering in-field servicing for our hired vehicles. It has provided essential support to fleets during the lockdown period, protecting them from issues with reduced workshop capacity they would otherwise have faced for their own fleet vehicles.

Even before the pandemic, 71% of van operators in a recent national survey said they found the offer of mobile van servicing attractive.

The potential savings for fleets are significant.

Researchers say demand for mobile servicing has surged in the past year, resulting in much-needed cost reductions worth millions of pounds for UK businesses.

Analysis shows that downtime costs businesses up to £500 per day per van, including ‘hidden’ costs, such as lost working time or spending on replacement vehicles.

Reflex Vehicle Hire services support fleets in several ways. In addition to Reflex vehicles benefiting from dedicated maintenance support from our in-house team of experts, we can also quickly provide cars and vans to replace a company’s owned vehicles if they are off-the-road waiting for service or repair.

Lisa Spong, Reflex Vehicle Hire Sales Director, said: “With fleets facing ongoing disruption, the flexible services we offer can provide vital support to managers to reduce downtime and business costs.”

Customers of Reflex Vehicle Hire can use our website to arrange a service or report a defect at the click of a button.

www.reflexvehiclehire.com

Do you specialise in Fleet Servicing, Maintenance & Repair? We want to hear from you!

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
By:

Each month on Fleet Management Briefing we’re shining the spotlight on a different part of the fleet & logistics market – and in December we’ll be focussing on the Servicing, Maintenance & Repair sector.

It’s all part of our ‘Recommended’ editorial feature, designed to help fleet buyers find the best products and services available today.

So, if you’re a supplier of Servicing, Maintenance & Repair solutions and would like to be included as part of this exciting new shop window, we’d love to hear from you – for more info, contact Chris Cannon on 01992 374096 / c.cannon@forumevents.co.uk.

Image by S. Hermann & F. Richter from Pixabay