There is a difference between general fleet management services and a strategic fleet management approach to providing service. At a quick glance it may seem that all fleet management services are the same, but with just a brief look at how the fleet management plan is developed, it will be easy to spot the differences.
General Fleet Management
General fleet management companies are the most common and are most often associated with smaller local or regional fleet management services, but it is an approach used by some national or even international companies as well.
As a guideline, a general approach to fleet management uses a standard approach to all customers, regardless of their needs. This isn’t to say that the company doesn’t have a variety of plans, but the plans are pre-set with some built-in flexibility and options. These are plans that are built on current and immediate future needs, without a focus on long-term growth or management based on stated objectives.
The Strategic Difference
With strategic fleet management, the goal of the management company is to work with the customer in setting benchmarks and goals to enhance the fleet, meet certain expectations and measurable goals and to have a unique, identifiable approach to all aspects of fleet management.
This will allow the fleet management service to focus in on market trends, industry regulations and other driving factors to continually grow and develop the fleet to be more energy and cost-efficient while also keeping the ongoing costs of the fleet within stated goals.
With strategic fleet management, the fleet management company is focused on the future of the fleet, which also performing the day to day tasks of managing the existing fleet. With this comprehensive roadmap for replacing vehicles and growing the fleet, the company is constantly increasing efficiency rather than simply replacing vehicles.