Planning a fleet is a long process that requires many steps. From maintenance to insurance, fuel costs, and driver recruiting, many things must be completed. And this is one of the main reasons why many companies decide to outsource their transport services.
Choosing whether to own your fleet or let other companies take care of this depends on many factors. Owning a fleet is costly, and you need to account for the CDL truck driver salary, too. However, your company needs to have the expertise to manage a fleet. But also, you should count on your business’s nature and future plans.
Owning your own truck fleet
Available options
Transporting goods from one point to another is easier when you have your fleet. Plus, you can brand your vehicles to strengthen your brand image. However, establishing and managing a fleet requires funds and experience. You can select a fleet under your own company for better control. But also you can outsource the transporting services to another company like MigWay. Transporting companies have been established with the goal of serving other businesses. However, it is essential to note that establishing a fleet can be costlier than outsourcing the service.
Decision
As a business owner, you need to make the final decision. It would be best to decide with your financial department to find the best option for your company. Make sure to calculate the cost difference for both options. With this, you will clearly know whether you will save money if you establish your own fleet. Make sure to consider the monthly costs with each option. If you decide to have a fleet, then count in the leasing payments, vehicle maintenance, insurance, gas, and driver salaries. However, these aren’t the only costs related. Setting up a new department or a fleet manager will also increase the costs.
The final decision depends on your work culture and long-term goals. If owning a fleet seems too expensive, it would be better to lease.
Advantages of owning a fleet
Transparency
Having your flight leaves you with greater control of the expenses. When the whole preparation process is under your control, the fees are transparent. When you outsource, the costs depend on the company, and you have no direct control over where the funds go.
Control
When you own the fleet, you have the ultimate control over it. Companies can select their employees, the type of vehicles that best suits their needs, and the locations.
Disadvantages of owning a fleet
Higher risk
Many problems can arise when a company fails to operate its fleet efficiently. Employee safety is one of the problems, but also legal regulations get updated.
Count in the parking
You will need parking space, no matter how big or small your fleet is. An extensive parking place is a must for this. Some companies might allow drivers to take the vehicle with them to avoid costs. However, they can use trucks for personal purposes and enhance the wear and tear you need to pay for.
More things to control
When you have a fleet, many things are on your to-do list. Ensuring employee satisfaction and recruiting is one of the main worries for fleet owners. With many things to take care of, the company needs to have expertise in fleet management. Otherwise, the risk of missing the delivery deadlines is high.
Impact liquidity
Operating a fleet is costly, so you can expect money to roll off your account frequently. If you have problems with liquidity in your company, you should think twice.
Featured image: Ivan Bandura/Unsplash
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