The idea that you could turn on the air conditioning at home as you leave work or check what's left in the fridge remotely was once a thing of fiction. However, such things are now part of many people's daily life.

Thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT), you can enjoy many conveniences. However, this technology's application is wider than just residential use. 

It has numerous commercial applications and is revolutionizing various industries, including the transport sector. From enabling autonomous vehicles to streamlining fleet management, its applications on the road are endless. 

As a business that operates a fleet, capitalizing on IoT can significantly increase efficiency and reduce costs, thus boosting revenues. 

Understanding IoT and Its Significance for Fleets

IoT refers to the interconnectivity of devices such as security cameras, refrigerators, vehicles, traffic lights, etc. As the name suggests, interconnected devices rely on the internet and a combination of hardware, software, and sensors to communicate in real-time. 

For vehicles, including those utilized by local businesses, embracing IoT means becoming part of this vast digital ecosystem. This allows the cars to connect with each other and devices, nearby or at a distance. 

As a result, vehicles within the network can communicate with each other, mobile devices, and even city infrastructure. In so doing, IoT allows fleet owners to enjoy automation at a new level and provides real-time insights into critical business operations.

Benefits of IoT for Fleet Management

It's estimated that there will be approximately 400 million actively connected vehicles globally by 2025. This is because IoT on the road offers significant benefits. For businesses with fleets, these include: 

• Reduced downtime- IoT's advanced data insights will prepare your technicians adequately for service calls. This will increase first-time fix rates (FTFR), minimizing unplanned downtime.
• Improved efficiency- IoT enhances process efficiency, identifies the best routes, and saves you fuel, thus improving time management and scheduling. 
• Security- Accompanied by sensors and cameras, IoT provides complete visibility in and around the vehicle, improving cargo and driver safety.
• Reduced costs- Through improved fuel efficiency, increased FTFR, and overall improved vehicle maintenance, your costs will go down as operational capacity increases. 

As you can imagine, if you have a large fleet, these benefits can compound, giving your business a competitive edge over rivals. 

The Role of Telematics in Fleet Management

A fleet telematics system is an invaluable asset when optimizing work vehicle utilization. These solutions enable commercial vehicle fleets to share information with their dispatching office. As such, it's what enables you to capitalize on the benefits of IoT.

Generally, a fleet telematics system has two key components: a mobile vehicle system and a stationary fleet communication system. With such a solution, you can streamline many aspects of fleet management. 

Furthermore, you'll gain valuable insights into vehicle locations and assets, enabling you to:

• Understand your operations in more detail
• Improve service delivery and customer satisfaction

Get Ahead of the Pack

Meeting the bare minimum standards is not enough in a consumer-driven business landscape. Beyond offering top-notch services and products, you must ensure they get to your customers on time. This means your vehicle fleet needs to operate efficiently, ensuring there are no delivery delays and scheduling challenges.

This is why a fleet telematics system is essential for any company that operates a fleet. Along with reducing costs, it enhances efficiency, thus improving customer satisfaction and retention. However, it's not just about having a fleet telematics solution but finding one that suits your business.

At Wilmar, we offer fleet leasing and management solutions. From fleet selection, leasing, management, analysis, and repair, we have the personnel and technology to handle your needs. So, instead of worrying about fleet management, leave it to us and focus on growing your business. 

Contact us today for reliable fleet management solutions that will give you an upper hand in the market.