Running a fleet of trucks is no small expense. Between fuel, tyres, maintenance, and unexpected breakdowns, costs can skyrocket. But if you manage a fleet, you already know that every dollar saved can make a big difference. Here are seven proven ways that truck companies can cut costs and maximise efficiency.
Table of Contents
- 1 1. Invest in Fuel-Efficient Tyres
- 2 2. Embrace Preventive Maintenance
- 3 3. Use Telematics for Route Optimisation
- 4 4. Reduce Idle Time to Save Fuel
- 5 5. Invest in Aerodynamic Enhancements
- 6 6. Implement Efficient Load Planning
- 7 7. Regularly Train Drivers on Efficient Driving Techniques
- 8 A New Route to Savings
1. Invest in Fuel-Efficient Tyres
One of the biggest contributors to fuel consumption in trucks is tyre rolling resistance – accounting for a significant 33% of total fuel use, to be exact. Of this, more than 90% comes from the drive and trailer tyres alone.
This makes your choice of tyres for trucks crucial for both cost-effectiveness and environmental responsibility. A tyre with low rolling resistance, for example, is a practical option that can deliver fuel savings of up to 6%. And while saving on fuel is a priority, there’s an added environmental benefit: reducing CO2 emissions. You should also look for tyres with longer wear life. You want tyres that are not only durable but also feature excellent retreadability, helping your tyres go further.
2. Embrace Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance may sound routine, but it’s a game-changer for keeping costs in check. Truck fleets undergo a lot of stress, and delaying maintenance can lead to expensive repairs or replacements down the line. Implementing a preventive maintenance schedule allows you to identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
This doesn’t mean doing a quick check once a month; it’s about thorough, regular inspections and adjustments. Routine oil changes, brake inspections, tyre alignments, and fluid top-ups are essential. Investing in this type of maintenance may require a bit of planning and initial expense, but it pays off in reduced breakdowns, longer vehicle life, and ultimately, lower costs.
3. Use Telematics for Route Optimisation
In logistics, time is money, and telematics is a powerful tool that helps you make the most of both. By using GPS tracking and telematics systems, companies can monitor their fleet in real-time and optimise routes. This can be a significant way to cut down on unnecessary mileage, fuel consumption, and driver hours.
Telematics does more than just route trucks; it provides data-driven insights into driver behaviour, fuel use, and vehicle performance. For instance, by tracking idling times and harsh braking, you can coach drivers on more fuel-efficient habits. With optimised routes, fewer detours, and efficient driving, telematics can directly translate to lower operating costs.
4. Reduce Idle Time to Save Fuel
Did you know that excessive idling can cost companies thousands of dollars each year? Idling burns through fuel while the vehicle isn’t even moving, which is pure waste. Fortunately, cutting down on idle time is entirely achievable with some basic training and monitoring.
Many telematics systems offer idling reports, so you can identify where this waste is happening and why. With data in hand, encourage drivers to turn off engines during long waits and reduce idling whenever possible. Some companies go a step further and install idle-reduction technologies or auxiliary power units (APUs), which power in-cab functions without using the engine’s fuel. With less idling, you not only save on fuel but also help your trucks last longer by reducing wear and tear on the engine.
5. Invest in Aerodynamic Enhancements
When it comes to fuel efficiency, it’s not just about what’s under the hood – it’s also about the truck’s design. Aerodynamic improvements can significantly reduce drag, leading to substantial fuel savings. For example, adding aerodynamic devices like side skirts, trailer tails, and even low-rolling resistance tyres can make your trucks more streamlined and fuel-efficient.
Research shows that aerodynamic adjustments alone can improve fuel efficiency by up to 15%. And in the trucking business, every bit counts. By reducing drag, you lower the fuel demand required to keep a heavy truck moving, meaning fewer stops at the pump. It’s an investment that quickly pays for itself in saved fuel costs.
6. Implement Efficient Load Planning
A well-loaded truck is an efficient one. Overloading can lead to higher fuel consumption, added wear on tyres, and even fines for non-compliance. Conversely, underloading means wasted space and missed opportunities for revenue. The answer? Efficient load planning.
By carefully planning and balancing loads, you ensure that each truck carries the optimal weight without overstressing its components.
7. Regularly Train Drivers on Efficient Driving Techniques
Training drivers on fuel-efficient practices is one of the simplest, yet most effective, strategies for reducing fuel costs. Think about it: a driver who knows how to minimise fuel consumption will naturally operate their truck in a more cost-effective way. Techniques such as gentle acceleration, maintaining a consistent speed, and reducing unnecessary idling can have a noticeable impact on fuel savings.
Regular driver training isn’t a one-off event; it’s an ongoing process that keeps your team up-to-date with best practices. Some companies even use telematics to give feedback on specific behaviours like hard braking or rapid acceleration, helping drivers refine their techniques over time. With better driving habits across your fleet, you’ll see the savings add up quickly.
A New Route to Savings
In an industry where margins can be tight, every bit of savings matters. These strategies might require a bit of upfront investment or changes in routine, but the rewards make it well worth it.