Fleet Management: Tips for Utility Companies Using Trailers

Managing a fleet is no small task. For utility companies, and any company running a fleet of trailers, efficiency and compliance are critical to ensuring operations run smoothly. In this blog, we share practical trailer fleet management tips to help you optimise your return on investment, reduce downtime and improve safety.

Trailer Maintenance Planning Schedule

Preventative care is the backbone of optimising your fleet. Creating a regular maintenance and servicing schedule will ensure that your trailers remain road-legal and safe for heavy-duty use.

• Ensure you are scheduling inspections and maintenance servicing every 6-12 months. We suggest you even reduce this to 3 months for trailers that are used heavily.
• Include daily checks for brakes, tyres, lighting and couplings before setting off on your journey.
• Keep a log of servicing for compliance and easy tracking of your servicing.

Being proactive in your approach to trailer maintenance planning reduces the cost of breakdowns, downtime and keeps your fleet moving on the road.

Training for Drivers & Operators

Drivers and operators of your trailers are the first line of defence against wear and tear. Proper training on best practices and maintenance and servicing can prevent misuse and ensure safety.

• Create a standard checklist for daily checks before journeys.
• Ensure your drivers are well versed in correct loading techniques to avoid overloading issues.
• If there are any specific hydraulics or mechanical features on the trailers, ensure that those operating them have specific training in proper usage.
• Ensure that you have processes in place for dealing with emergency situations for roadside issues.

Investing in education for your drivers and operators will improve efficiency and reduces risk across your fleet.

Standardise Preventative Care

In all of these things, consistency is the most important. Make sure you have a company-wide policy for preventative trailer care, including:

1. Regular lubrication of moving parts, hydraulics etc.
2. Cleaning down of any dirt and debris after heavy use to prevent corrosion and rust.
3. Ensure a stock of essential spare parts for quick repairs and reducing downtime.

Conclusion

Efficient utility fleet optimisation isn’t just about buying the right trailers, it’s about managing them smartly. By combining trailer maintenance planning, driver training, and company-wide policies for preventative care, you’ll reduce downtime, improve safety, and maximise ROI.