How can outsourcing boost efficiency?
Neil Thomason of Pullman Fleet offers some insight into outsourcing vehicle management, lessons learnt and the benefits of doing so.
It’s probably safe to say that the HGV industry is the lifeblood of the UK’s economy, ensuring the timely and secure transportation of goods across the nation. During this time the management of vehicle maintenance has traditionally been an in-house responsibility for many fleet operators but, as the industry has evolved, so have the challenges around compliance and efficiency, prompting a rethink of maintenance strategies.
As the demands on fleet operators intensify, we have seen key decision makers turn more and more toward outsourced provision for vehicle maintenance unit (VMU) management to improve fleet efficiency and business profitability.
In recent years Pullman Fleet has seen a rapid growth in this trend, with a number of partners – from supermarkets to logistics firms – trusting us to implement tried and tested processes to ensure fleets are compliant and on the road.
This has allowed our partners to concentrate on core competencies and streamline operations to allocate resources more efficiently. Furthermore, this has given them access to a number of Pullman Fleet’s USPs.
Expertise
Outsourcing VMU management has provided clients with access to a pool of specialised technicians and engineers, all well-versed in the intricacies of HGV maintenance and who would otherwise be unavailable to them.
Training is viewed as a continuous activity and Pullman works closely with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) and other training providers to monitor legislative change and new technologies. This has seen IMI-accredited training offered in-house for HGV technicians to ensure our nationwide workforce of 170+ HGV specialists and 60+ mobile technicians remain knowledge experts in the field. Testament to this are the 6,750 MOTs carried out across the business in 2023, with a remarkable first-time pass rate of 98% which is well above national averages and industry benchmarks. Furthermore, we consistently exceeded KPIs for our partners, boasting a 97.3% average vehicle availability.
Pullman Fleet is also able to draw on the expertise of 50+ company-wide support staff who take care of administrative and technology functions; this helps provide a 24-48hr booking-in time for scheduled maintenance compared to two weeks or more regularly seen from main dealers.
Working with Pullman Fleet also provides access to a 24/7/365 breakdown provision, with 90% attendance within 90 mins and a 94% first time fix, and access to c.300 third-party suppliers across the UK.
Savings
Maintaining an in-house VMU can be financially burdensome due to overheads, training expenses, and the need for constant technology upgrades. Outsourcing can result in significant cost savings, as maintenance providers leverage economies of scale. As an example, Pullman Fleet’s strategic parts partnership allows us to ensure consistent and competitive pricing and stock holding throughout our workshop network which saved several key partners c.£0.25 million in 2023. This helps minimise downtime and enhances overall operational efficiency.
Rules and regulations
The HGV industry is subject to a myriad of regulations and compliance standards. Outsourcing VMU management to providers well-versed in these requirements ensures that fleets remain compliant, avoiding penalties and disruptions.
One of Pullman Fleet’s key differentiators in the market is our DVSA Earned Recognition status, allowing us to evidence a proven culture of compliance and demonstrate a strong track record supported by robust management system and processes. We currently manage nine Earned Recognition scheme operators and provide ER reporting for a selection of them, offering an average three-day document upload via DVSA Earned Recognition compliant platform.
What does a good VMU look like?
Our most successful site is the VMU at Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland. It features three drive-thru double-bays with pits including an ATF lane. In 2023 we achieved an exceptional MOT first-time pass rate of 99.6%. Other headline statistics include:
- 714 assets managed with full R&M, inclusive of 520 trailers, on a 24/7 operation
- 98% asset availability
- c.26,000 events managed
- c.9000 compliance related events managed (inspection, LOLER, DPF)
- 500 invoiceable jobs completed as a minimum
- 515 MOT tests presented with 513 attaining a first-time pass
- ATF lane situated in a separate part of VMU with prep and MOT conducted on-site
- Management of all roadside events throughout Carlisle, Scotland and Northern Ireland on behalf of retailer’s transport team
The growing trend for outsourcing VMU management in the HGV industry is indicative of a strategic shift towards a more efficient and cost-effective operational model. By leveraging specialised expertise and cost savings, fleet operators can position themselves for sustained success in an ever-evolving industry.
Better together
Pullman Fleet is keen to discuss how it can help potential partners enhance the productivity and efficiency of their VMUs as well as discuss their truck and trailer repair and maintenance provision. You can contact the team via enquiries@pullmanfleet.com
