Every fleet has unique maintenance challenges when it comes to day-to-day operations. So, in uncertain times, and times of crisis, these maintenance challenges are exponentially more difficult. Due to time restraints and financial resources, many fleets may look to defer maintenance as a quick solution.
While deferring maintenance is never a good long term solution for challenges facing fleets, in these demanding times there are some maintenance items that can be safely deferred while others that can’t. Here are the top recommendations from our experts:
- Focus on safety items, defer maintenance items that are NOT essential to vehicle operation and driver safety. For example- while tires are a huge expense for most fleets, worn or insufficient tire tread depth can lead to seriously unsafe operations, blow-outs and catastrophic accidents.
- Be less concerned with comforts or vehicle appearance. You may suffer a little brand image from some minor scratches or a torn seat covering but saving money on deferring these types of repairs may be the prudent thing to do at this time.
- Adhere to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s safety guidelines, and stay compliant. An unsafe vehicle should never be on the road. The FMCSA safety guidelines and regulations should always be a priority in your fleet maintenance programs and with any deferred maintenance.
- Time is money- work with suppliers who are flexible, fast and are responsive to your needs. Now more than ever you cannot afford to have vehicles down for long periods or taken out of normal operating schedules for services. If your regular supplier is only available M-F from 9-5 then you may want to reconsider using them. At Amerit, our service solutions are tailored to your fleet operations, including hours of operation, and focused on minimizing the time your fleet asset is taken out of service.
At Consolidated Truck Parts & Service, we know that fleet maintenance is critical to supporting the nation’s infrastructure, and we are proud of the role we play in supporting essential businesses.
We understand that in uncertain times, deferred maintenance may be your fleet’s only option, but we encourage you to proactively ensure the safety of your fleet’s assets, drivers and communities.
With an entire team of maintenance experts in 3 locations, we’re here to help. We support truck fleets across several states in our shops and with our road service personnel.
To speak with a team member about your maintenance needs today, please visit www.consolidatedtruck.com or call us today in Monroe @ (318) 325-1948 or Many @ (318) 256-9683 or Alexandria @ (318) 767-4287.
From AFS Blog
