Managing a fleet of light and medium-duty trucks is a busy job. Everyone knows about gas and repairs. But what you don’t know can really hurt your business. Here are some less-known facts that can impact your bottom line. These facts focus on Class 1-6 vehicles, which include most delivery vans, service trucks, and pickups.

Surprising Facts About Your Fleet’s Money

First, a major hidden cost is idling. An engine can waste up to a gallon of fuel every hour it idles. For a small fleet, this can add up to thousands of dollars a year. Secondly, many companies still rely on simple spreadsheets to track vehicle costs. In fact, a study found that over 90% of spreadsheets have errors. This can lead to wrong decisions about repairs or when to replace a vehicle.

Furthermore, a lot of fleets don’t track the total cost of ownership. They only look at the initial price of a truck. This is a mistake. The true cost includes fuel, maintenance, and insurance over the life of the vehicle. By looking at the bigger picture, you can find the most cost-effective trucks for your business.

Facts About Maintenance and Vehicle Life

Did you know that tire pressure is a huge factor? A tire that is just 10 PSI underinflated can reduce fuel economy by 1.5%. This also shortens the tire’s life. A simple check can save you money. In addition, many fleets think a newer truck is always better. However, a well-maintained older truck can sometimes be more reliable than a new one with a lot of new technology. This is because older models have fewer complex systems that can break down.

Another key fact: fleets often pay for unnecessary repairs. When a mechanic finds an issue, they may fix it without checking if it’s really needed. A strong maintenance plan and good communication with your mechanics can prevent this.

Driver Behavior and Safety Facts

Driver behavior is a major cost factor. Aggressive driving like speeding and harsh braking can increase fuel use by up to 30%. It also puts extra stress on the brakes and engine. Because of this, a simple driver training program can save a lot of money on fuel and repairs.

Also, many fleets don’t realize the impact of small accidents. Even a fender bender can cause insurance rates to rise for the whole fleet. This makes accident prevention a very high priority. In fact, fleets with a strong safety culture often see a drop in their insurance costs.

Finally, most drivers don’t understand the cost of their actions. When they see a truck’s fuel gauge, they don’t see the full cost of idling or speeding. Educating drivers on these costs can lead to a big change in their behavior. This can help your entire fleet run more efficiently.