In the fast-paced world of fleet management, staying up-to-date and compliant with regulatory changes, while continuously improving driver knowledge and skills, are ongoing challenges. The J. J. Keller Center for Market Insights recently released their fourth annual study, “The State of Fleet Management: Insights on Priorities for Today’s Fleet Managers,” which sheds light on these critical issues.
Understanding the Current Challenges
The study, conducted in February 2024, highlights several key pain points for fleet managers:
1. Hours-of-Service (HOS) Compliance:
• Struggling with HOS limits and use exemptions increased by 13% from 2023 to 2024.
• Despite widespread use of electronic logs, HOS compliance remains a major issue, with HOS violations accounting for over 40% of all roadside violations.
2. Driver Recruitment and Retention:
• Finding and retaining high-quality drivers continues to be a top concern, growing by 12% from 2023.
• Staffing shortages lead to longer hours and increased workloads, contributing to risky driving behaviors.
3. Regulatory Understanding:
• Understanding how FMCSA regulations specifically apply to fleet operations increased by 9% year-over-year.
Key Findings
1. Recordkeeping Challenges:
• Accurate and well-organized recordkeeping remains a significant challenge, with 47% of fleet managers citing it as the most important aspect of FMCSA compliance.
2. Driver Training:
• Continuous learning is emphasized by 65% of companies, with a focus on training that is specific to the unique needs of drivers, operations, and vehicles.
• There is a strong desire for flexible and efficient training delivery, allowing drivers to access training as needed with minimal disruption.
3. Safety and Compliance:
• The most successful fleets leverage technology such as dash cams, electronic logging devices, and telematics data to find and fix compliance and performance issues, thereby preventing crashes, citations, and unnecessary turnover.
Addressing the Pain Points
To tackle these challenges effectively, fleet managers need to adopt a proactive approach:
1. Enhancing HOS Compliance:
• Utilize electronic logging devices (ELDs) and telematics to monitor and manage HOS compliance.
• Provide regular training on HOS rules and exceptions to ensure drivers are well-informed.
2. Improving Driver Recruitment and Retention:
• Implement comprehensive driver training programs to enhance skills and safety.
• Foster a positive work environment where drivers feel valued and supported.
3. Streamlining Regulatory Compliance:
• Invest in technology to automate recordkeeping and compliance monitoring.
• Keep up-to-date with regulatory changes and ensure that all parts of compliance are monitored and records are centrally retained.
Conclusion
As fleet managers continue to navigate the complexities of regulatory compliance and driver management, it is crucial to prioritize safety and continuous improvement. The insights from the J. J. Keller study highlight the importance of leveraging technology and adopting proactive strategies to overcome these challenges.
By focusing on HOS compliance, improving driver recruitment and retention, and streamlining regulatory understanding, fleet managers can create a safer and more efficient fleet. As the industry evolves, staying informed and adaptable will be key to achieving long-term success.
