Advanced Fleet Management Features That You Should Have For Your Business
Fleet management software helps your business monitor, coordinate, and streamline vehicle operations. It’s not just about using GPS tracking to pinpoint the whereabouts of your assets; it’s about getting comprehensive and tangible insights through advanced fleet management features. These data tools are there to help you make better decisions for your business.
There’s a mistaken idea that GPS tracking is enough. While tracking your vehicles is important, being a business that leverages advanced fleet management tools will put you above the rest and help you save. According to industry reports, companies using advanced fleet technology can see up to a 20% reduction in fuel costs and a 10-20% improvement in fleet utilisation.
Modern fleets need modern solutions. Intelligent systems with features that combine hardware, software, and insights are your key to real results. In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of advanced fleet management features for your business and why Cartrack’s solutions are your secret to easy implementation.
Why do advanced fleet management features matter?
Advanced fleet management features matter because they give managers a full and comprehensive view of their operations. Fleet management is more than just tracking—it’s about being able to take on the challenges and vulnerabilities that come with it.
Every day, businesses are faced with rising costs and emergencies that trigger downtime. With advanced fleet management features, you can operate a safer, cost-effective, and top-performing business. A smoothly run business means happy customers and staff.
How advanced features deliver real-world ROI
Advanced features deliver real-world ROI by directly promoting better productivity and cost management. Some of these benefits include:
- Lower fuel costs: through route optimisation and fuel monitoring.
- Fewer accidents: through driver behaviour monitoring and coaching/feedback.
- Compliance: through holding important documents, reporting, and record-keeping.
- Faster deliveries: through scheduling and real-time vehicle monitoring.
Future trends in advanced fleet management
The fleet industry is rapidly evolving, and unfortunately, you need to ensure your business stays prepared. Always keep an eye on your business and emerging trends. Consider these:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is a perfect tool for automating processes and predicting unsafe or risky behaviours. A good example of this is an AI-powered video that captures and makes a note of unsafe driver behaviours, like fatigue or distraction.
- Internet of Things (IoT): IoT refers to a network system of smart objects that connects devices in vehicles. These devices are typically sensors that collect data and use the internet to transmit information. IoT makes it possible for fleet managers to tackle potential issues before they become costly disruptions.
- Connected Vehicles: These are vehicles that can communicate with each other and with infrastructure in real time (traffic lights or road sensors). This means that vehicles are ‘talking’ to each other, other fleet systems, and even the surrounding environment.While IoT connects individual sensors and devices within a vehicle, connected vehicles take it a step further. They enable entire vehicles to communicate with each other and external infrastructure.
An example of this is when Cartrack’s Tag uses the ‘crowd searching’ method. Crowd searching is implemented when a vehicle is jammed and then stolen. The jammed device (in the stolen vehicle) moves through a ‘crowd’ of vehicles with their own anti-jamming devices, and is then reported back by those other vehicles. This allows Cartrack to triangulate and quickly locate the stolen vehicle.
What are the core categories of advanced fleet management features?
Five essential groups comprise the core categories of advanced fleet management features. These include:
- Driver safety and behaviour
- Vehicle health and cost management
- Data and compliance
- Productivity and customer service
- Security and theft prevention
Let’s take a look at each of these in more detail.
Advanced features for driver safety and behaviour
Keeping your drivers safe encourages a safer driving culture and reassures drivers that their well-being is a priority. Driver safety and behaviour is more than just meeting legal obligations—it creates a positive business reputation as well. These are some advanced features:
Driver behaviour monitoring
You can monitor the behaviours of a driver while they’re on the road, and even get notified of signs of fatigue, distraction, smoking, and more. This allows you to keep track of potentially unsafe driving patterns. Combating these unsafe behaviours at an early stage can greatly reduce the risk of accidents and incidents.
Immediate alerts for risky driving
Immediate alerts are sent your way if the AI-powered driver monitoring picks up on unsafe behaviours. This includes speeding, phone use, or signs of distraction shown by the driver. Immediate alerts mean that as a fleet manager, you can take note of these behaviours or adjust tasks and duties if necessary.
In-cabin cameras
You’re able to keep an eye on what’s happening inside the vehicle, too. You can identify risky driving traits yourself, or even see whether a driver is making an unauthorised stop or pickup. In some cases, you have the ability to speak to the driver through the in-cabin camera as well.
Training feedback tools
The best way for drivers to improve is to learn from their stumbles and understand the importance of road safety. Having saved footage of their trips allows you to deliver personalised coaching and feedback. This will hopefully help the driver feel looked after rather than policed.
Advanced features for vehicle health and cost management
The last thing you’d want for your fleet is to see some unexpected downtime. Being able to keep track of vehicle health and maintenance means that you can better manage costs and prevent costly breakdowns. Here’s how:
Predictive maintenance and diagnostics
Smart features allow you to closely monitor factors like mileage, engine health, and wear & tear in certain car parts. Because of this, predictive maintenance is the key to staying proactive and keeping your vehicle healthy.
You’ll be alerted to issues like overheating, and you can ensure vehicle maintenance is scheduled before the issue becomes a costly expenditure.
Fuel monitoring and route optimisation
Monitoring fuel and optimising driver routes is the solution to solving one of the biggest operational costs when managing a fleet. Keeping track of fuel usage means you can better understand driving patterns or even note potential fuel theft.
Combined with route optimisation, you can almost guarantee an increase in productivity while cutting back on wasted fuel use. You can also meet your ethical goals by cutting back on carbon emissions.
Tyre pressure and load monitoring sensors
Ensuring that your fleet’s tyres are in good condition is another way to encourage a safer driving culture. Doing so means that there’s less chance of accidents caused by tyre blowouts or sudden loss of control.
The monitoring sensors also track tyre pressure and note any possible overloading or over- or under-inflation.
Automated service scheduling
Automated service scheduling is your answer to extended vehicle lifespan, compliance, and uptime. With this service, you can always guarantee that important checks aren’t missed, including oil, brakes, or general servicing. This means you don’t have to worry about unexpected downtime.
Advanced features for data and compliance
With fleet management, there’s a lot of data being processed, as well as regulations that are always being updated. When you combine data and compliance, you can see how these insights can help you make better business decisions while also reducing risk and legal issues. Consider these factors:
Customisable dashboards and KPIs
When using a fleet management tool, you can choose which metrics you want to keep track of via your dashboard. This means you have a total overview of what matters most, whether it’s driver performance or fuel usage. You can also see and interpret that data in real time (while it’s happening).
Compliance monitoring
If you’re looking to stay on top of legislation and not worry about fines and legal issues, compliance monitoring is the solution. It automates the process of tracking key issues like emissions and load limits.
By removing the potential for human error, you have time to focus on other important tasks, all while avoiding potential fines.
Integration with various tools
Third-party integration is a massively important consideration if you want to avoid cross-platform confusion. When your fleet management platform works with systems like payroll, you get a much smoother, streamlined order of operations.
This means, for example, that a driver’s hours are automatically linked to payroll, and human error is eliminated.
Cloud-based storage
Cloud-based storage means that you have access to your insights and data whenever and wherever you are. No matter the device, you can look over your data without worrying about information being lost or viewed by unauthorised users.
Advanced Features for Productivity and Customer Service
Meeting customer needs is a top priority. With advanced features for productivity and customer service, you can expect smooth operations and happy customers with every service. Achieve these through:
Route optimisation and live ETAs
As mentioned, route optimisation means your drivers are travelling using the best and most efficient routes. This means quicker deliveries, shorter travel times, and reduced fuel use. Pair this with live ETAs (estimated time of arrival), and customers know exactly when to expect their deliveries.
This combination builds customer loyalty and satisfaction!
Geofencing and automated notifications
Setting up virtual zones with geofencing allows you to monitor when your drivers enter and exit specific areas. These typically include warehouses and regular delivery areas. When drivers enter or leave geofenced areas, you can be notified regarding their movements.
This not only gives insights into time spent in an area, but it also ensures drivers are held accountable regarding their movements.
Digital job dispatch and proof of delivery
You don’t have to concern yourself with manually sorting out schedules and duties for your many drivers (and wasting paper in the process). You can digitally assign jobs to your drivers through your fleet management platform, along with any necessary additional information.
Regarding proof of delivery, you can now digitally capture confirmation every time a package reaches its destination. Customers can sign electronically, or you can take a photo as verification.
Links for tracking customers
Customers can have access to live information through tracking links. Once the delivery is in process, they can click on a secure link to keep track of their package and follow their order. This is the kind of feature that builds transparency and brand loyalty.
Advanced features for security and theft prevention
Your fleet is not only made up of precious assets, but is likely carrying very precious cargo too. Theft prevention and security measures are absolutely necessary to keep your assets, supplies, and drivers safe. Here are some protective measures:
Stolen vehicle recovery (SVR)
The technology used for Stolen Vehicle Recovery (SVR) assists partner companies (like Cartrack) with swift vehicle recovery. The vehicle’s location can be pinpointed, and the fleet management company’s control room will be immediately notified. These kinds of innovative tools can instil trust and confidence.
You can rest assured knowing that vehicle loss is minimised and your insurance worries are potentially quelled.
Remote vehicle immobilisation
If a vehicle has been stolen or is being used without the correct authorisation, you have the power to disable the vehicle remotely with the remote vehicle immobilisation tool. This is one of the most powerful safety features that deters theft and keeps your vehicle out of the wrong hands.
Remote vehicle mobilisation can minimise damage to the vehicle while also giving you enough time to arrange reinforcement for vehicle recovery.
24/7 tracking & panic buttons
Being able to have eyes on your fleet at all times is the key to peace of mind. In many cases, panic buttons are attached to dashcams or are in easy-to-reach places in case your driver has an emergency. This sends out an immediate call for help, improving the safety of your driver and asset.
How to identify the features your business really needs
The best thing you can do for your fleet is to understand what solutions are best. These are typically identified by assessing fleet size, your industry, and operational objectives.
Here’s an easy checklist to help you:
- Identify your pain points: Narrow down the challenges you face within your business. Are you struggling with fuel costs? Are drivers constantly getting into accidents? Are customers not satisfied with your services? Once you’ve assessed these vulnerabilities, you can begin to understand exactly what you need.
- Link your needs with the right features: Consider the tools that directly match your pain points. For example, if your drivers are getting into many accidents, consider implementing AI-powered camera solutions with a multiple-camera option.
- Assess your fleet and its size: Different fleets have different needs. Smaller fleets typically aren’t as complex and may only need a few advanced fleet management tools. Larger fleets tend to be more complex, needing a lot more features and integration benefits.
- Think about your industry needs: What’s necessary for construction vehicles won’t be the same for delivery vehicles. Look at your priorities; as a delivery company, you’ll likely consider features like live tracking and digital proof of delivery. A construction company would focus more on load monitoring and remote vehicle immobilisation.
- Set your goals: This links back closely to the first point. Decide what you want to address and what you’re looking to achieve with your business. Do you want to decrease and better manage operational costs? Do you want to improve driver safety? Let these be the factors that guide you in choosing advanced fleet management features.
- A word of caution: It’s natural to want the best for your business and its fleet, but that doesn’t mean you need every feature on offer. Doing this will lead to unnecessary and extra spending. Rather, target your business’s challenges directly so that you get genuine value in return.
How do you make sure you’re choosing the right advanced features for your business?
To make sure you’re choosing the right advanced features, look over your business goals and the vision you see for its future. Investing in fleet technology, particularly advanced features, is a significant step forward. You want to make sure you’re maximising your returns. Focus on these areas:
- Carefully examine your business goals: As mentioned, be clear about what you want to achieve for your business. You’ll want to avoid spending money on unnecessary extras, especially when that money could be going into the business instead.
- Consider future growth: This is a significant point to consider, especially if you plan to expand your business. Invest in a platform that boasts flexibility and adaptability. If your business needs and goals change, you’ll want advanced fleet management features that grow and change WITH you.
- Look at integration: Advanced fleet management features will only work optimally if platform and workflow integrations are smooth. Always go for features and systems that work in tandem with your fleet management platform.
- Support your staff during change: Many of us find comfort in familiarity, which is normal. This is why it’s important to support your staff when implementing change regarding these new, advanced features and tools. Invest in training and ongoing support for all the staff, so that they can feel more confident about the tools they’re using.
By considering these points, you can take this opportunity to critically assess the features you’ve identified and ensure that you’re making the right choices.
Why Cartrack is your top choice for advanced fleet management
Having the latest fleet management technology is well and good, but you’ll need a reliable provider to match. Cartrack is able to provide the necessary advanced fleet management technology you need while offering training and constant support for you and your team. We’re an all-in-one provider.
Here’s a reminder of what sets us apart from the rest:
- AI-powered driver monitoring: Get all the feedback on your drivers and their driving patterns. Detect any distractive driving habits and use the insights/video footage as a coaching method for driver safety. Additionally, improve safety and accident-related issues with this feedback.
- Secure storage: Cartrack’s Vision footage is stored on sturdy and durable devices, remaining secure no matter the environment. Otherwise, you can safely access live footage and general insights via Fleetweb or the mobile app. Your data is encrypted according to global standards, so you can be confident that your information remains safe.
- SVR and remote immobilisation: Remain at ease knowing that your assets are extra secured with these features. SVR and remote immobilisation reduce theft and recovery time. Our built-in SVR means that the Cartrack control room will react swiftly to your stolen vehicle. Remote immobilisation will give you the power to keep the wrong person from getting away with your vehicle.
- Fleetweb: Our streamlined platform gives you total visibility and control. It also allows you to connect to third-party systems without interruption.
- Flexible packages for businesses of any size: The size of your business doesn’t matter to us – we’re here to help. Whether you’re a business with a small fleet or a complex, larger one, Cartrack can cater to your needs. We have flexible solutions that’ll work with your needs and bring maximised value. So, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
The road ahead for your business
Investing in advanced fleet management features is about creating the best and most profitable version of your business. With the help of these tools, you’re pushing a safer driving culture, higher ROI, and better long-term success.
With Cartrack, you’re getting much more than just a service provider. We offer you a strong partnership and reliable relationship to ensure you stay ahead of the curve.
Drive your business forward today with Cartrack. Book a demo to see how advanced fleet management features can unlock safety, savings, and smarter operations.
FAQs
Q: What’s the most important advanced fleet management feature?
A: There isn’t necessarily a most important’ advanced fleet management feature, because different businesses have different priorities. However, driver and asset safety are typically considered the most important factors. As a result, it could be said that safety-improvement tools are considered most essential.
Q: Are advanced fleet management features only for large fleets?
A: No, advanced fleet management features are for fleets of all sizes. Reliable fleet management providers should be able to cater to all businesses or at least be scalable. With smaller fleets, these tools can improve productivity and cost management. With larger fleets, complex and detailed insights can be provided to bring positive change to the business.
Q: Which advanced fleet management features help reduce operational costs most effectively?
A: Route optimisation and fuel monitoring help reduce operational costs the most. This is because fuel tends to be the most expensive expense when it comes to fleet management. Advanced features that measure and manage these costs are able to reduce waste and provide the best routes for drivers.
Q: Can Cartrack’s advanced fleet management features integrate with existing business software and workflows?
A: Yes, Cartrack’s fleet management features are made to seamlessly integrate with various existing software, like payroll. This means you can avoid human error and rely on smart systems to keep your systems running. You also don’t have to worry about adopting new systems and cross-platform confusion.
Q: Which advanced fleet management features deliver the fastest ROI?
A: There isn’t just one feature, although driver behaviour monitoring, GPS tracking, and route optimisation are typically the features that deliver the fastest ROI. These advanced fleet management features almost immediately result in faster delivery times, lower fuel costs, and improved risk management.
