"Just Gotta Make It"

October 3, 2023

5:23 pm

Is everyone singing Trey Songz, "Just Gotta Make It"?

Lately, I've been getting the emergency calls... "I need you to complete an audit of my driver's logs.", "I can't get my plates.", "I need a copy of my IFTA license.", "Can you complete my IFTA?" (the day before the due date), "I need you to dispatch me tomorrow." (We don't even operate like that, so this one won't work.)

I understand that we all are trying to make it, but there are some things that we just can't skip out on, because it will cost us more in the end. Trust me, I'm with you all... I have the trucks, so I get it.

So, how can we save:

1. Optimize Fuel Efficiency

• Pre-plan trips to find the most efficient fuel on the route.

• Monitor filters and change them regularly.

• Change oil every 25,000 miles to maintain efficiency

2. Know your Vehicles

• Understand the ins and outs of your vehicles (There are plenty of times when a driver calls me to explain what the truck is "doing" and I can literally tell them what to check or what to do, just because I know my vehicle.)

• Know how many miles per gallon (MPG) you truck gets so that you know your numbers before even dispatching your truck.

3. Focus on Maintenance

• Conduct regular preventive maintenance to prevent costly breakdowns.

• Train drivers to perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections to catch potential issues early.

4. Monitor and Manage Expenses

• Regularly review and analyze expenses to identify areas where cost-cutting is possible.

• Evaluate and renegotiate contracts with suppliers and service providers.

5. Maintain Compliance

• Stay up to date with industry regulations and compliance requirements to avoid fines and penalties.

• Implement safety programs to reduce accidents and associated costs.

6. Diversify Services

• Find your niche: Explore opportunities to offer specialized services, such as dedicated hauling or niche markets, to increase revenue streams.

So, as we are "just making it", be sure that you stop, reflect and evaluate. Think about what works and stick to it. Finding a niche has tremendously helped my clients and I in this market.

Be sure to contact me if you ever want to "Figure it Out". Remember, every industry has its waves and we "Just Gotta Make It".

Signing Off,