As we head into the holidays, route planning becomes increasingly important as the roads and our schedules become busier. The festive season is perhaps the most hectic time of the year for the transport industry. During these times, fleet operators have to contend with increased traffic volume, an inflated workload, the need to fulfill their services for the holiday rush, and keeping their drivers safe.
With Christmas and New Year fast approaching, proper route planning comes to mind as one of the most important tasks for a fleet manager. By having a well-planned route for every driver, your fleet remains efficient, productive, and safe throughout the holiday rush.
Planning the journey is a gift that keeps on giving for fleet operators. It has several benefits including:
Better Business Management for the Holidays. By having a well-thought out route plan, your drivers can fulfill their daily tasks in a timely and efficient manner. This allows fleet operators to keep up with the increased demand for their services during the festive season.
Improved Fleet Safety. Whether we like it or not, some things may go wrong along a driver’s journey. With the help of route planning, you can take into consideration factors risks such as roadworks and unconventional roads that your driver might encounter, traffic patterns, load capacity, drop off locations, and mandatory rest stops, and more to help keep your drivers safer.
Better Fuel Efficiency. Route planning involves choosing the best route to reach a specific point. When drivers have this kind of guide, they are less likely to get lost which means less driving and more fuel savings.
Better Driving Experience for Drivers. Between increased traffic volume, potential long-haul journeys, and driving on unfamiliar roads, the holidays can be a stressful time for drivers. By providing them with a well-planned route beforehand, you can help decrease their anxiety on the road and make them safer drivers.
AfMA members can find more information about route planning on our Fleet Management Guide. Not yet a member? Join us here today!
