At the risk of stating the obvious, older trucks need more maintenance and repair than newer ones do. Because of supply chain issues, fleets today are operating their trucks, in some cases, well past their normal trade cycles, which has likely changed the type and amount of service that fleets need to take on.
Outsourcing can be a good solution for fleets that are feeling overwhelmed by the increase in maintenance and repair that is now needed for their trucks. However, this does not have to be an either/or decision. Fleets have options when it comes to outsourcing maintenance and repair.
See also: A review of how to operate with fuel efficiency in mind
Here’s a look at some that are available to fleets that may need assistance with their maintenance and repair needs.
- Managed maintenance services: With this plan, fleets are charged a small “membership” fee but then get preferred rates on parts and labor.
- Preventive maintenance agreements: This is a good choice for older trucks and/or those domiciled in one place. Based on the makeup of the fleet, a rate is agreed upon for regular maintenance service on a schedule. Repairs and breakdowns are handled on a cost-plus basis, where the fleet pays for each service event. Parts and service may be provided at a discounted rate.
- Variable maintenance agreements: Under this model, maintenance costs are determined to be a certain amount. When maintenance needs exceed the threshold, fleets are billed for the additional cost of parts and labor. If the maintenance needs prove to be less than originally anticipated, the fleet gets a credit or refund.
- Guaranteed maintenance agreement: In this option, the fleet owns the trucks, but an outside service provider handles all the maintenance of the assets. The cost of the maintenance is agreed upon and then guaranteed.
In addition to these strictly maintenance models, fleets can choose to switch to full-service maintenance lease or a dedicated contract carriage model.
Outsourcing maintenance can help fleets keep their trucks—both new and old—on the road in top operating condition.
Jane Clark is vice president of member services for NationaLease. In this position, she is focused on managing the member services operation as well as working to strengthen member relationships, reduce member costs, and improve collaboration within the NationaLease supporting groups. Prior to joining NationaLease, Clark served as area vice president for Randstad, one of the nation’s largest recruitment agencies, and before that, she served in management posts with QPS Cos., Pro Staff, and Manpower Inc.
