What to Know When Comparing Truck Service Centers for Your Fleet
When you operate a fleet, two of your major expenses are pretty much joined at the hip: maintenance/repairs, and downtime. One key to keeping these in check is to select the truck service center that’s right for your business. We have some tips on what to look for in order to help you make the best choice.
Find new and pre-owned flatbed trailers for sale online.
Expectations for Service Centers
There can be different levels of service depending on how you want to run your fleet’s maintenance and repair program. Some fleets do their maintenance in-house but outsource major repairs to a center; others send their vehicles there for all mechanical work; and some are looking for a full-service program that includes the center managing the fleet overall in addition to maintaining it. Be sure the center you select knows exactly what you want and can provide it, including proactive maintenance and emergency services. Ideally, you’re looking not just for a shop, but a trusted partner who’s handling your needs.
Prices
In addition to the cost of regular maintenance, have the shop price out some repairs that you reasonably expect to crop up so you can compare what various shops are charging. If one charges considerably less than others, ask why. It may be a good deal, but the shop may also be leaving off items that will show up on a real bill, such as estimates for diagnostic time, or secondary parts required for the repair, like gaskets or fluids. It may be tempting to go for the cheapest shop, but that could turn out to be pricier in the long run, especially if the technicians aren’t properly trained or the shop doesn’t use OEM or quality replacement parts.
References for Service Centers
If you can, ask other fleet managers what shops they use. Ask the center for references, or look online for customer reviews. If the shop farms out some of its repairs, such as engine rebuilding, find out who does it and how that shop stacks up with customers. Look into who covers the warranty on those third-party repairs so that if there’s an issue, you’re dealing with your service center and not that other shop.
Service Center Chains
If your trucks are long-haul, dealing with a national chain may simplify matters if a driver needs service on the road. You can go through a single website or phone number to find a location close to where your driver is rather than search for whatever shops are nearby and hope you get one you can trust.
Experience
Look for technicians with training certificates from the major truck manufacturers. Make sure the center has up-to-date diagnostic equipment and software, which can potentially cut down on the time it takes to pinpoint the problem; and see that they have the right tools when they’re required for your brand of truck. If your fleet is specialized, such as concrete mixers or dump trucks, be sure the service center is familiar with that type of equipment and can repair it when needed.
Location
Downtime isn’t just how long the truck is in the shop; it also includes getting it to and from the center. Look for a center that’s within a reasonable distance from your business and is easy to access.
Hours and Emergency Services
Some large service centers are open 24 hours, and if that’s how your fleet runs as well, this might be to your advantage. If that isn’t possible, then look for one with the most convenient hours for your schedule. A center that provides emergency mobile service may also be valuable to you, especially if they’re able to repair many problems roadside. It will undoubtedly be more than if the repair was done at the shop, but it could save you paying even more for the repair plus the tow.
Proactive Maintenance
In addition to keeping detailed records, some centers proactively keep tabs on your maintenance schedules and contact you to make an appointment when it’s time for service. This frees up someone in your business looking after the schedules and calling to book a time slot. Regular maintenance and inspections can keep your trucks in top shape, and potentially discover issues before they turn into larger problems.
Compare prices online for new and used tow trucks for sale.
Reputation and Professionalism
The right service center should treat you as a valued customer, rather than just someone who’s paying the bill. You want service advisors who are familiar with trucks; those who are conscientious about downtime; someone who explains what needs to be done; and a service center that keeps you in the loop from drop-off to pick-up. You want well-trained technicians using the latest equipment to diagnose and repair your vehicles, and while looking for potential issues when doing scheduled maintenance. You want a parts department that’s well-stocked, and quick to order if something isn’t available. You want fair and transparent pricing, and the impression that your business matters to the shop. When you’re comparing truck service centers, look for these factors to find the one that’s right for you.
Jil McIntosh
You might also like
