Running a fleet is often an overlooked part of operations for hospitality businesses. But you cannot imagine running a restaurant without delivery vehicles or serving your hotel guests without complimentary shuttles for airport pickups and drops. A fleet of vehicles can be a massive investment, but it is one thing you cannot manage without. Beyond the initial expense for acquisition, you need to spend on maintenance and upkeep of your vehicles.
Hiring drivers is a major responsibility because you cannot settle for mediocre skills and experience. Fleet management can be a daunting task for hospitality business owners. But you can follow these tips to make the most of your investment and leverage it to create a positive experience for customers.
Choose the right vehicles
This one is a no-brainer because different businesses have diverse needs. Food delivery providers require motorcycles to cut through the traffic and deliver orders on time. Hotels must invest in cars and shuttles to transport guests. Besides your needs, your budget also determines the vehicles you can pick for your fleet. Whichever vehicles you pick, ensure factors like optimal mileage, safety features, and an extended lifespan. You must double-check these requirements, even if it means spending more on your fleet.
Make training a focus
Driver training should also be a priority when managing your hotel or restaurant fleet. After all, any mishap or issue can affect your reputation in the long run. Conduct defensive driver training to minimize the risks of distracted driving, harsh breaking, and fast turning. It also develops situational awareness and prevents accidents. Besides the initial training for recruits, conduct ongoing training and incentive programs to encourage safe behavior.
Prioritize vehicle maintenance
Even the best vehicles can sustain wear and tear over time. The way your driver handles them also makes a difference. Regular maintenance should be a part of your fleet management plan. Create a preventative maintenance checklist and follow it stringently, even if your fleet does not make a primary part of business operations. A vehicle maintenance contract with a third-party vendor is a good option as it keeps you stress-free and lets you focus on your core business.
Implement real-time monitoring
Implementing real-time monitoring of your drivers and vehicles puts you in a better place to manage your hotel fleet. You can consider telematics installation in your vehicles to keep an eye on things. Create designated delivery routes to ensure drivers do not waste fuel or use your vans for personal tasks. The technology also helps with fuel optimization, which can cut your costs significantly.
Ensure adherence to the law
Every driver in your fleet should adhere to the law so that you need not struggle with legal hassles. For example, make sure that your delivery bike riders wear a helmet on every ride, use reflectors and headlamps, and obtain an ID for commercial bicycle riders. Hotel van operators must keep track of the personal information of each driver and regularly monitor motor vehicle records.
Managing your fleet should be a priority, even if it does not seem to be the core part of your hospitality business. Follow these tips to maximize the value it delivers to your customers and business.
Over to you
The hotel industry is always changing, especially during a time of crisis. Make sure to future-proof your business and continue attracting new guests by investing in these solutions.
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Related article: 5 Cost-effective Steps to Start a New Innovative Digital Transformation Shift for Hotels
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About Are Morch
Are Morch is a digital transformation coach helping hotels open their digital front door, reimagine their processes and culture, and transform experiences in a fast-paced world!
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