Business vehicles can be a huge help for entrepreneurs. It can create a professional image and a better reputation as well. If you have already chosen a business vehicle, you’re in for a ride!
However, there are still a lot of factors to consider, such as fleet maintenance, fuel expenses, and insurance. So here are some tips that you can follow on how to reduce the costs of your business vehicle.
Proper utilization of vehicle
While the main purpose of a vehicle is for transportation, there are still many types and with specific uses. Choosing the right vehicle will depend on your company’s needs and the nature of your business.
For instance, a panel truck would be ideal if your business involves making and/or delivering consumer products. Sure, a simple SUV or pick-up truck can also be used in transporting your goods, but you need to maximize every trip. This will not only help save time but will also help minimize your fuel expenses.
Employment and coaching of your drivers
One of the most important things to pay attention to is your drivers as they will be the ones to operate your vehicles. According to The Wandering RV, there are about 6 million vehicular accidents per year in the US alone. No business owner would want to be added to those statistics.
Some of the minor changes that you can instill in your drivers are to avoid overspeeding, drunk driving, cut idling, and coasting. These steps will not only save you gas but it can also help in avoiding road accidents and the expenses that they might bring.
Maintenance of your vehicles
Chances are, you will be using your vehicles extensively, which is why they would also need constant maintenance to be able to function properly. You can make a check-list of the things that you should maintain such as the exterior, interior, battery, fluids, tires, brakes, mirrors, and other functions.
Moreover it’s important that you have your vehicle maintenance done by trustworthy professionals and certified mechanics such as a Subaru routine maintenance company. This way, you can rest assured that your vehicle is in the right hands.
Doing this will help prevent further damages in your fleet that might cost you more money. Accidents and product damages can also be avoided.
Insurance
Smart business owners would know that getting fleet insurance is as important as their business insurance. Investing in insurance will help in cost-cutting major repairs, damages, accidents, and/or medical expenses.
Insurance can also help cover your employees and your products as well. There are many types of car insurance policies so the best way would be to identify what parts of your vehicle need the most repairs. And from there, shop around for policies that would be able to cover those.
Fleet automation
The advancement of technology has been very promising in the last decade and with that, better fleet maintenance can be achieved. According to IMI Products, the cost of truck maintenance can easily cost you $15,000 per year.
However, having predictive maintenance can save you more money and keep your fleet in tip-top shape. Automation is also convenient in terms of reminders. You can set dates for routine maintenance, inspections, battery replacements, and registration renewals.
This will help in preventing scheduling issues and save you time and energy. You will also be able to track your vehicle via GPS and plan your routes ahead in case there’s heavy traffic along the way.
Vehicle renewal
Just like all other things, vehicles wear down over time. And the older the vehicle is, the higher the cost of the maintenance will be. It’s important to know when to replace an old fleet with a new one to reduce excessive downtime, maintenance, repair, and fuel costs.
Electric Vehicles
Many car companies offer electric vehicles. And while they can be more expensive than cars that run on gasoline, it also offers many benefits. Cars that run on electricity are better for the environment as they don’t have exhaust systems.
You will also be receiving tax credits because you will be helping the environment by driving a zero-emission car. Another best part is the lesser maintenance frequency and costs.
Vehicles are meant to make our lives easier. But when it comes to business, your vehicle should be reliable at all times. Unexpected vehicle downtime can cost a lot of money, and it can potentially affect your relationships with your clients and their trust. Your company’s reputation is the last thing that you want to be compromised especially if you are in the business world.
