Fuel is one of the biggest expenses in transportation and logistics companies, representing a direct impact on the budget and profitability. Inadequate management can lead to waste, affecting financial performance and theoperational efficiency of fleets.
The challenge is to find ways to control costs without harming the operation. Investing in technology, planning strategic routes, and training drivers are some actions that help improve resource utilization and reduce losses. Below, we explore practices that contribute to more efficient and economical fueling.
Technology as an ally in supply control
Using technology in fleet management is essential to accurately monitor fuel consumption. Systems offleet managementandtelemetry toolsoffer detailed data, such as the average consumption of each vehicle, route performance and even drivers' driving patterns.
These data allow managers to identify areas for improvement. "With detailed reports, it is possible to directly address the biggest consumption bottlenecks, optimizing fuel use," says João Baptista, CEO of thefrotacontrol, a pioneering system that combines technology and fleet management.
With tools likefrotacontrolIt is possible to manage and monitor refueling and trips. The platform helps identify strategic fueling points and prioritize affiliated stations, ensuring savings and greater cost predictability.
Planning routes and strategic stops
Efficiently planned routes help avoid unnecessary fuel costs 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 priority stations along the most used routes. This facilitates strategic replenishment, eliminating deviations and ensuring savings.
Driver training
The way drivers drive can make all the difference when it comes to fuel consumption. Practices such as sudden accelerations and excessive braking are factors that increase expenses.
Training drivers to adopt more economical driving is a measure that improves results. Furthermore, more careful driving helps preserve the vehicles 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 and within the limits, it is possible to see gains not only financially, but also in the durability of vehicles”, adds João.
Price monitoring and centralized supply
Monitoring fuel price fluctuations is another important strategy. Partnerships with gas station networks, participation in loyalty programs, and the use of corporate cards for refueling can ensure better conditions. "It is important to know where to stop to refuel, since 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, as well as eliminating the need to pay market prices during peak times.
More efficient routines with integrated management
Investing in supply management is not limited to cutting fuel costs. The combination of technology, planning, and team training allows companies to reduce waste, increase productivity, and improve overall operational efficiency.
With tools like Frotacontrol, the refueling process becomes more organized and predictable. In addition to managing fueling stations and affiliated service stations, the system allows managers to monitor trips in real time, providing greater control and security.
By implementing appropriate strategies and integrated solutions, it is possible to transform supply into a strategic process, reducing costs and optimizing the operation as a whole.
