Whether your business needs a new fleet of company vehicles or your company already owns a full lineup, it’s essential to build, maintain and grow your fleet without waste or needless expense. What types of vehicles does our company need? What size should they be, and what options are necessary? How long should you keep them before replacing them? There are two types of checklist items to consider when deciding what vehicles should make up your company fleet.
The Utility of Your Fleet
Are you a contractor who sends out laborers or craftsmen requiring vans loaded with tools and equipment? Do you need pick-up trucks that haul larger equipment or need to tow cars or trailers? What is the terrain your trucks or vans will drive on or to? How “heavy-duty” do these vehicles need to be? How much cargo space is really necessary? Do you have a sales team that regularly drives to visit clients?
It’s important to get the most for your money and not spend extra for features that increase the cost of vehicles without paying off in value for the vehicle needs. Cars that simply transport staff might not require luxurious amenities, while those designed to impress might be useful for large-ticket salespeople. Choosing truck models with proper power for their assigned duty can prevent needless repairs or replacements soon after. The key is to fit the best vehicle for its specific function. Vehicles that perform double duty might require earlier repair or replacement while remaining economical if the original price was good. It’s a balancing act.
Maintenance Needs and Other Fleet Expenses
The cost of a fleet doesn’t end with the purchase price. It’s critical to consider the maintenance required for each vehicle vs. what your staff can handle, or you need to outsource. For example, some foreign vehicles require special handling or equipment. What is the repair history for considered vehicle types? Fleet value is also determined by the continued cost of maintaining it vs. the profit generated in its use. Does it cost less to keep techs on staff or contract another company to do regular maintenance and repairs? For small business fleets, it’s usually the latter.
Whether your fleet comprises a van or two, or several small trucks, vans, and sedans, Ultimate Fleet Repair understands the importance of regular maintenance and quick, affordable repair. Contact us today to see how we might help keep your fleet in good shape at an affordable price with our professional, experienced technicians.
