By: Jason Grimm, Transportation Practice Leader, One80 Intermediaries
In the past, fleet managers often addressed safety protocols in a reactionary manner, waiting until potential issues like insurance rate increases or DOT challenges arose. However, this approach is no longer sustainable. Today’s operations must be consistently proactive, leveraging tools that allow for real-time data capture and analytics. Simply having data isn’t enough; fleet managers must actively manage their operations based on this information. Owners who prioritize this approach are more likely to effectively manage their businesses before problems occur.
As the trucking industry continues to grapple with driver shortages and retention challenges, motor carriers must ask themselves if they are doing everything possible to attract and retain talent. One crucial factor is the deployment of equipment with crash-avoidance technology, which appeals to newer drivers. Many of these drivers have learned to operate vehicles with some level of crash avoidance, making fleets without this technology less appealing.
This can further tighten the hiring funnel for those operations with outdated equipment. Moreover, fleet owners and managers must fully embrace technological advancements. If they are not serious about it, no one else in the organization will be.
The trucking industry’s cycle has continued to course-correct through 2024, adding pressure on operations teetering on the edge of profitability. Insurance costs remain a critical factor for many motor carriers, determining whether they can continue to operate or are forced to close shop. Relying on “hope” to avoid loss experience challenges or DOT issues is not a viable strategy; it’s a gamble that impacts the entire operation from the top down. For owner-operators looking to expand, demonstrating a commitment to safety and the well-being of their drivers is essential. This not only helps in attracting talent but also ensures long-term business sustainability in an increasingly competitive and regulated environment.
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Jason serves as the Transportation Practice Leader for One80 Intermediaries. In this role, Jason is responsible for the growth and development of all transportation offerings across the One80 franchise.
He has successfully designed a wide variety of innovative programs that have helped clients more effectively and profitably manage their books of business while providing enhanced levels of service. Additionally, Jason has 15 years of retail management experience in the automotive sector, having developed and managed operations for some of the nation’s largest automotive retailers.