Fuel is one of the largest expenses for transportation and logistics companies, representing a direct impact on the budget and profitability. Poor 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 training drivers are some actions that help improve resource usage and reduce losses. Below, we explore practices that contribute to more efficient and economical fueling.
Technology as an ally in fueling control
Using technology in fleet management is essential for accurately tracking fuel consumption. fleet management systems and telemetry tools provide detailed data, such as average consumption per vehicle, route performance, and even driver behavior patterns.
This data allows managers to identify improvement points. ‘With detailed reports, it’s possible to directly address the biggest consumption bottlenecks, optimizing fuel usage,’ says João Baptista, CEO of frotacontrol, a pioneering system that combines technology and fleet management.
With tools like frotacontrol, it’s possible to manage and monitor fueling and trips. The platform helps identify strategic fueling points and prioritize partner stations, ensuring savings and greater cost predictability.
Route planning and strategic stops
Efficiently planned routes help avoid unnecessary fuel expenses and reduce travel time. Routing tools can consider factors such as road conditions, traffic, and the location of reliable fueling 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
The way drivers operate vehicles can make all the difference when it comes to fuel consumption. Practices like sudden acceleration and excessive braking are factors that increase expenses.
Training drivers to adopt more economical driving habits is a measure that improves results. Additionally, more careful driving contributes to vehicle preservation and reduces the need for frequent maintenance, not to mention minimizing or eliminating speeding violations.
‘When drivers understand the impact of simple habits, like maintaining a steady speed within limits, it’s possible to observe gains not only financially but also in vehicle longevity,’ adds João.
Price monitoring and centralized fueling
Tracking fuel price variations is another important strategy. Partnerships with station networks, loyalty programs, and the use of corporate fueling cards can secure better conditions. ‘It’s important to know where to stop for fuel, as some Brazilian states have lower prices than others,’ emphasizes Baptista.
For companies with larger fleets, installing private fuel tanks on their premises can be a viable solution. Although it requires an initial investment, this approach allows greater control and predictability in expenses, eliminating the need to pay market prices during price spikes.
More efficient routines with integrated management
Investing in fueling management isn’t just about cutting fuel costs. Combining technology, planning, and team training enables companies to reduce waste, increase productivity, and improve overall operational efficiency.
With tools like frotacontrol, the fueling process becomes more organized and predictable. Beyond managing fueling points and partner stations, the system allows managers to monitor trips in real time, offering more control and security.
By implementing appropriate strategies and integrated solutions, it’s possible to transform fueling into a strategic process, reducing costs and optimizing operations as a whole.
