Fleet Operations in Transition as the Business Landscape Changes in North America

There are challenges on the horizon for businesses with fleets in the United States and Canada.

Whether the problem is high fuel prices, changing environmental mandates, driver shortages, tight margins, or some combination of all of these factors, the fact is that fleet managers need to remain nimble and quickly adapt to changing circumstances. What was once a desire to maximize efficiency as a way to create confidence in the profit potential and value of a fleet of vehicles is now a matter of survival. With competition fierce and budget constraints aplenty, fleet owners, independent operators, and drivers already have more than enough to worry about without having to deal with inefficient vendors and suboptimal systems and processes.

Why Businesses Are Turning Toward Centralized Business Services

One of the ways that fleet operators and other businesses in North America are adjusting to the times is by investigating centralized business service solutions. Rather than maintaining a patchwork of vendors and working with fuel providers, vehicle manufacturers, telematics companies, compliance management services, maintenance shops, field mobility solutions, wireless connectivity solutions, and cellular providers, many transport operations are now looking for integrated systems and services that allow for easy, efficient, and judicious use of resources and information. Vendor consolidation helps support the intent of companies such as Radius, but there are other solutions that provide essential tools and services that help keep transport operations connected and in motion, while shielding operators from wasted time and productivity losses caused by working with too many different providers.

The Use of Telematics in Fleet Management Operations

Telematics are being used more than ever by haulers across the transportation spectrum in North America, and for good reason. This type of tool is about as close as one can come to a silver bullet that addresses many of the unknowns typically associated with running a fleet; and the mobile transport and field services providers who support work orders, dispatch, and routing applications within those fleets.

For drivers, this technology can also contribute to a safer workday and remove uncertainty from decisions related to when and how to report information back to a central system. When managed correctly, dispatchers, home offices, or delivery centers can remain well informed about route progress, timelines, and any irregularities or incidents that may need to be addressed. Access to the right kind of available and usable data doesn’t just increase productivity and overall performance. As margins tighten and economic conditions remain challenging, there will be even more incentive to take advantage of this technology; especially for delivery trucks and specialized fleets that must meet contracted work orders and scheduled appointments.

Compliance and Environmental Concerns as Fuel Consumption Becomes a Political Issue

Feets should also begin preparing for tougher regulatory requirements and the gradual rise of electric vehicles (EVs). Government agencies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Natural Resources Canada (NRC) offer useful guidance as businesses determine the most effective long-term methods for achieving compliance. Fleet operators should be prepared to stay informed and remain agile in response to evolving expectations.

Preparing to Pivot: Ensuring Resilience for the Future of Fleet Operations

At the end of the day, maintaining efficient and effective fleet operations across North America comes down to flexibility. Businesses that prioritize investments in connected technology, operational visibility, and strategic decision-making will be better positioned to roll with the punches. By ensuring productivity, safety, and strategic oversight, fleets can prepare for whatever the road ahead may bring.