In-house truck maintenance and The benefits of keeping a hands-on approach
When it comes to trucking, your main equipment is what’s most valuable to you. Sometimes, one truck being out of commission could throw off your entire business and put a major dent in your schedule. When it comes to repairs, outsourcing seems to be the next logical step in order to get your fleet back on track and ready to run; but what if regular in-house maintenance could save you big in the long run?
The benefits of in-house truck maintenance
Source: EFS Logistics ©
1. Valuable mechanical knowledge for you and your team
When we talk about saving, the first thing that comes to mind is money, obviously. But one of the benefits of doing your own in-house truck maintenance is the valuable skills your drivers (and yourself as an owner) could learn along the way while tending to your trucks.
A heavy vehicle operator with a strong knowledge of the truck they’re driving is beneficial to your company and ensures the safety of everyone sharing the road.
2. Maintaining efficiency and safety on the road
As mentioned, it’s important to anticipate the possible obstacles you could face while on the road. In case of breakdowns or malfunctions on the highway, you or your driver could be left stranded for hours waiting for a mobile mechanic or towing company. This could potentially become a hazard and cause safety concerns on the road.
Someone with basic mechanical knowledge could temporarily fix the issue, allowing them to drive and park to a safer spot or the closest garage. This option is also the most efficient for your operation as it limits the amount of time lost on the road, which would otherwise be used to fulfill deliveries.
Source: EFS Logistics ©
3. Overseeing the work for better quality control
It’s safe to say that there is nothing better done than when we do it ourselves. Having a trusted in-house mechanic can give you some peace of mind when it comes to managing the stress of scheduled maintenance. Not only will you have control over which equipment has priority, but you will also be able to oversee the quality of workmanship.
High-quality workmanship ensures the highest return on your investments (your trucks). There won’t be space for cutting corners when you are the one in control.
Motor.com also mentions: “With in-house maintenance, technicians will also work exclusively on the fleet’s vehicles and specific equipment, rather than having to work on other types of autos or trucks as well. That means technicians have more of an opportunity to become specialists on the fleet’s particular vehicles and accompanying parts such as with up-fit bodies. Day in, day out and over time, in-house shop technicians are likelier to be working on familiar hardware.”
4. Your wallet will thank you later
The most obvious benefit of having your own in-house mechanic is how much money you can save long term. The best example is with urgent maintenance or breaks. Outside mechanics can often charge an extra fee for emergency services, while your fleet mechanic could prioritize the work and do it faster, as mentioned previously. All that- no extra fee.
These extra expenses can quickly add up long-term and be quite frustrating, but a savvy mechanic with good connections can easily find you parts and tools at a good price, which could help you avoid those pesky extra charges. This is also a great way to keep your expenses centralized and under control.
