Logistics is a vital division for every company that wants to ensure successful and timely delivery of its products. Many businesses don’t have their fleet of trucks and must outsource this critical function to a trucking company. When you’re entrusting your shipments to someone else, it’s essential to do your due diligence to ensure they are up to the task.
However, there might be some companies that create an in-house logistics division. While there might be advantages to having your fleet, they will require you to spend a lot on maintenance and upkeep. Every breakdown will also cost you time and money in delays. You will have to ensure that your team is well-trained and knows how to operate the trucks.
Maintaining your trucks is critical for your logistics division, especially for daily transportation. Keeping your trucks well-maintained can avoid breakdowns and ensure that your shipments are handled smoothly and on time. Here are a few steps to keep in mind when maintaining your trucks.
Regular Inspections
Performing regular inspections for your fleet of trucks is essential for maintenance and repairs. By inspecting your trucks regularly, you can catch any problems before they turn into more significant issues. It will help keep your trucks running smoothly and prevent any costly repairs.
Companies should tailor inspection schedules to the specific trucking company and its operations. However, some everyday inspection items include:
- Tire pressure and condition
- Fuel levels
- Oil levels
- Engine coolant levels
- Lights and reflectors
- Brake fluid levels
- Windshield wipers and washer fluid
- Hoses and belts
- Chassis lubrication
If any problems arise during the inspection, companies should take the truck out of commission until after getting the issue fixed. Performing regular inspections can avoid costly breakdowns and ensure that your shipments are handled safely and on time.
Cleanliness and Sanitation
Maintaining a clean and sanitary truck is vital for the safety of the driver and other individuals nearby, and the car itself. Keeping a clean truck can avoid unnecessary wear and tear on the vehicle, leading to mechanical problems.
In addition, drivers need to be aware of the importance of hygiene while on the road. It’s essential to keep food and drink away from the truck’s controls and always wash your hands before eating. It will help keep you and your vehicle safe while on the road. Fortunately, you can utilize a cleaning list for your vehicle.
Here are a few tips to keep your trucks clean:
- Wash the vehicle regularly, inside and out
- Vacuum the truck’s interior daily
- Wipe down all surfaces, including the dashboard, steering wheel, gearshift, and door handles
- Clean the windows, both inside and out
- Remove any trash or garbage from the truck
- Ensure that there is no food or drink left in the truck
Replenishing Parts Inventory
Trucks require a lot of replacement parts to ensure fast repairs. It is due to the constant wear and tears they experience while on the road. Having a good stock of parts allows potential delays and disruptions to have quicker resolves, minimizing the impact on your business.
Having a good stock of parts also allows you to fix more minor issues without waiting for them to arrive. This strategy can save time and minimize disruptions to your logistics operations.
It’s crucial to select a supplier that can provide quality parts quickly and at a reasonable price. By choosing the right supplier, you can minimize the time your trucks are out of commission. It might be ideal to have a few suppliers to choose from to get the best price and delivery time for your needs. You should also consider the supplier’s location, impacting how quickly you receive the parts. Fortunately, you can buy truck parts in bulk online.
Keeping Track of Cargo Load
Keeping the weight of trucks in check is vital for several reasons. It helps prevent wear and tear on the vehicle and the cargo transported. It’s also crucial for safety reasons, as an overloaded truck can be more dangerous to drive.
Truck weighing scales can help logistics managers keep track of the weight of their trucks and make sure they are not overloaded. It is a crucial step in preventing accidents and ensuring that your shipments get handled safely.
Weighing scales provide a quick and easy way to check the weight of a truck. They are portable and easy to use, making them ideal for transportation companies. Fortunately, you can find plenty of companies that offer portable truck scales.
Conclusion
Trucks are a vital part of any transportation company. They need to be well-maintained to ensure safety and efficiency. Drivers should also be aware of keeping their trucks clean and sanitary. By following these tips, you can keep your trucks in top condition and minimize disruptions to your business.
