What's Your Business' Forklift Fleet Management Strategy?

Material handling is more than forklifts. Effective material handling requires the collection and use of operation-wide data. Forklift fleet management consists of the gathering, analysis and use of relevant fleet information to reduce costs and improve productivity. Today, much of this information is available through specialized software programs, making access to data instantaneous. This bundled information provides new visibility into operations and can help to reduce capital expenditures. For many warehouse managers, managing a fleet of forklifts and other material handling equipment can be challenging and time-consuming. Fleet management software can help uncover the key details necessary to increase productivity at the touch of a fingertip.

Review. A fleet management program begins by evaluating your current material handling fleet to determine the current cost, analyzing those expenses and looking for opportunities with potential cost savings. This phase determines how well the fleet is utilized and a cost per operating hour will be established.

Plan. Develop a proactive plan to minimize costs, maximize productivity and increase the dependability of the fleet. After the key components have been identified, begin implementing and installing a strategy that provides the highest level of utilization from each vehicle.

Recommend. After collecting data and organizing a plan, the fleet management program will identify opportunities and suggest the correct type of fleet required at each location based on application needs. At that time, recommendations for maintenance and replacement equipment will be developed.

More information on fleet management software can be provided by Andersen Material Handling.