How to pick a fleet management partner

Managing a fleet can be a challenging undertaking, but getting it right is a critical ingredient to a safe, happy, productive workforce, operational efficiency, environmental sustainability and a healthy bottom line.

A fleet management provider can help you deliver in all of these areas, freeing up valuable time and generating significant cost-efficiency savings.

Not all fleet management companies are created equal, however. Here, we’ve outlined some of the most important considerations as you look to narrow down your shortlist.

Define your objectives

At the outset you should establish your fleet requirements – only then can you formulate your selection criteria.

What are your current pain points and your key motivators?

This question should be asked beyond the confines of the fleet department. All relevant stakeholders should be engaged, from finance, procurement and health and safety to operations, HR and sales.

These teams are unlikely to be able to offer market-leading expertise across all the skillsets needed to run an efficient fleet. Sustainability, for example, might be a business priority, but does the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and more environmentally-friendly solutions expose gaps in expertise and knowledge.

Ensure expertise across all services:

Offering fleet services can be very different to having genuine experience and proficiency in delivering them. Study prospective providers’ credentials carefully and make sure they have the capacity and flexibility to handle your specific requirements.

Fleet transport is rapidly evolving and will continue to do so. Do they have their finger on the pulse of latest developments – from electrification to disruptive tech – to enable them to dynamically shape and future-proof your fleet?

Is your preferred partner independent?

The importance of independence from leasing companies, manufacturers or dealer groups should not be underestimated. This is essential to delivering fully-tailored fleet management packages and offering impartial advice.

Promises must be kept

Meaningful service level agreements (SLAs) and measurable key performance indicators (KPIs) should be agreed from the outset and reported on regularly to ensure performance is delivering on expectations. Return on investment is crucial, but it should be remembered that not everything is quantifiable and your preferred partner should be sensitive to all your business and driver needs.

Digital innovation is paramount

Advanced software solutions have become integral to fleet management decision-making, so check that your preferred partner is ahead of the curve.

Technology innovations – such as Fleet Operations’ Driver Companion app and award-winning MOVE software suite – can deliver real fleet efficiency savings and improve the working lives of drivers.

There can also be advantages to proprietary software systems, rather than off-the-shelf third-party solutions, that can be customised to meet your business requirements, so check, not only what the tech means for you, but who has ownership.

Is there a good cultural fit?

It’s important to take time out and visit prospective partners. You can often tell straight away if they’re right for your business. If your company cultures, modus operandi and employee personalities align, the prospects for a successful, long-term relationship are much greater.

Demonstration, not proclamation

Finally, check the fleet management company has a proven track record and ask for testimonials and references. The voice of a third party can offer real insight into how clients are served.

For more information contact Fleet Operations on 0344 567 8000, email advice@fleetoperations.co.uk.