Fuel expenditure stands as a critical operational cost impacting the profitability of fleets. There's a pivotal role that telematics solutions play in establishing robust safeguards against fuel theft and reducing overall fuel spending. Let's dive into the details.
Telematics for comprehensive data insights
Telematics emerges as a vital solution for fleets, especially those with more than five vehicles, as managing fuel spending at a granular vehicle level becomes increasingly challenging. Telematics data encompasses a wealth of information, including fuel tank levels, fuel usage per trip, mpg, harsh driving events, speed compliance with posted limits, idling time, and vehicle location. Automating and customizing this data yields insightful dashboards, reporting, and real-time alerts, empowering fleet operators with actionable insights.
Combine fuel transactions with telematics data
Integrating fuel transaction data with telematics data is critical to combat potential fraudulent activities. Fuel purchasing data detailing transaction location and gallons purchased combine seamlessly with telematics data, including vehicle location and fuel levels. Using this integration, fraud is prevented by flagging anomalies such as a vehicle at a different location than the fuel fill-up, as well as discrepancies in the amount of fuel purchased versus the amount added to the fuel tank, resulting in suspicious transactions being declined.
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Educate drivers on fuel theft prevention
During new-hire orientation, fleet operators should educate drivers on company policies and anti-fraud safeguards. This comprehensive overview serves as a deterrent, reinforcing the company's commitment to preventing fuel theft. By communicating the implemented systems and policies, fleet operators create a subliminal warning, discouraging any contemplation of fuel theft during the employment period.
Enforce idling rules with telematics
Telematics solutions play a crucial role in combating inefficiencies related to idling, a form of fuel theft often linked to work avoidance. Fleet managers can set specific idling rules, triggering automated alerts based on idling duration. For instance, exceeding a 10-minute idling limit generates a report, while surpassing 30 minutes prompts a warning email to the driver. An hour of idling triggers an SMS alert to the fleet manager for immediate intervention, creating a streamlined system for addressing idling issues.
Multi-layered defense against fuel fraud and theft
Telematics emerges as a formidable defense tool to protect fleet profitability and curtail fuel spending. Through a strategic combination of leveraging telematics data, educating drivers, and integrating fuel card data, fleets establish multi-layered defense systems against fuel fraud. This approach mitigates the risks associated with fuel theft and ensures efficient fuel resource management, contributing to the overall profitability of the fleet. As technology advances, telematics remains a front-line ally for fleet operators navigating the intricate landscape of modern fleet management.
Rush Akin is an experienced veteran in the fleet industry, with over 22+ years of experience in fleet management. Before joining RoadFlex, Rush served as the SVP of sales for Solera, overseeing fleet sales and business development in North America. Before Solera, Rush worked with well-known brands in the industry, such as Rand McNally, Lytx, FourKites, and Syntech Systems Fuel Master. Rush has a strong background in fleet and fuel management and customer success.
