Fuel is one of the most significant expenses in transportation and logistics companies, representing a direct impact on budgeting and profitability. Inadequate management can lead to waste, affecting financial performance and the operational efficiency of fleets.
The challenge lies in finding ways to control costs without harming operations. Investing in technology, planning strategic routes, and empowering drivers are some actions that help improve resource utilization and reduce losses. Below, we explore practices that contribute to more efficient and economical refueling.
Technology as an ally in fuel control
Using technology in fleet management is essential to monitor fuel consumption accurately. Fleet management systems and telematics tools provide detailed data, such as the average fuel consumption of each vehicle, performance on routes, and even driver steering patterns.
This data allows managers to identify areas for improvement. “With detailed reports, it is possible to act directly on the biggest fuel consumption bottlenecks, optimizing fuel usage,” says João Baptista, CEO of frotacontrol, a pioneering system in combining technology and fleet management.
With tools like frotacontrol, it is possible to manage and monitor refueling and trips. The platform helps identify strategic refueling points and prioritize affiliated stations, ensuring savings and greater cost predictability.
Route planning and strategic stops
Efficiently planned routes help avoid unnecessary fuel expenses and reduce travel time. Route optimization tools can consider factors such as road conditions, traffic, and the location of reliable fuel stations with competitive prices.
Managers can also establish preferred stations along the most used routes. This facilitates strategic refueling, eliminating detours and ensuring savings.
Driver training
How drivers operate can make all the difference when it comes to fuel consumption. Practices like aggressive accelerations and excessive braking are factors that increase costs.
Training drivers to adopt a more economical driving style is a measure that improves results. Moreover, careful driving contributes to vehicle preservation and reduces the need for frequent maintenance, not to mention the decrease or elimination of any speeding violations.
“When drivers understand the impact of simple habits, such as maintaining a constant speed within limits, it is possible to see gains not only financially but also in vehicle durability,” adds João.
Centralized price and refueling monitoring
Tracking fuel price variations is another important strategy. Partnerships with gas station networks, participation in loyalty programs, and the use of corporate fuel cards can ensure better conditions. “It’s important to know where to refuel, as some states in Brazil have lower prices than others,” emphasizes Baptista.
For companies with larger fleets, installing their own fuel tanks on their premises can be a viable solution. Although it requires initial investment, this approach allows for greater control and predictability in expenses, in addition to eliminating the need to pay market prices during peak times.
More efficient routines with integrated management
Investing in fuel management is not limited to cutting fuel costs. The combination of technology, planning, and staff training enables companies to reduce waste, increase productivity, and improve overall operational efficiency.
With tools like fleet control, the refueling process becomes more organized and predictable. In addition to managing refueling points and affiliated stations, the system allows managers to track trips in real time, providing more control and security.
By implementing appropriate strategies and integrated solutions, it is possible to turn refueling into a strategic process, reducing costs and optimizing operations as a whole.
