As icy weather is on its way, we share our tips for keeping your hire vans safe while keeping costs low.
How to Keep Your Commercial Fleet Costs Low This Winter
Winter driving can be a significant challenge for commercial fleet owners. Many of us do not realise how much the additional cost of winter driving adds up to. The Association of British Insurers says that winters see insurers pay out as much as £500 million for vehicle damage. Many winter claims are for damage from low-speed collisions on icy roads.
To help you navigate these challenges, here are some essential tips to keep your Warrington hire vans on the road and your costs down this winter.
Make Regular Vehicle Checks
Ensuring that drivers make regular vehicle checks is particularly crucial in winter. Here are some key areas to focus on:
Coolant and Antifreeze
In cold temperatures, it’s essential to keep the van topped up with coolant. Antifreeze is vital because it prevents the engine from freezing and ensures that it runs smoothly even in sub-zero temperatures.
Oil
Selecting the correct oil for your vehicle is getting more and more complicated, and cold weather affects the oil flow rate. Using the wrong oil makes it harder for vans to start. Always consult your vehicle’s manual or speak with a professional mechanic about which oil is best suited for winter conditions.
Windscreen Wash Fluid
In winter, use a stronger concentration of washer fluid. It prevents your system from freezing and getting damaged — and also prevents ice forming while driving. A clear windscreen is crucial for visibility during snowstorms or heavy rain.
Brake Fluid
Brakes must be in top condition in icy weather. Ensure that brake fluid reservoirs are regularly checked and topped up if necessary. Faulty brakes can be catastrophic in slippery conditions.
Tyres
Check tyres regularly for wear and damage, ensuring there is at least 1.6mm of tread — ideally much more in snowy conditions. Consider using winter tyres if conditions continue to be bad; they offer better grip on icy roads.
Battery
Your batteries have to work harder in wintry weather so check them before the cold sets in. A weak battery can leave you stranded at the worst possible time.
Additional Tips to Keep Costs Low
While regular vehicle checks are crucial, there are other strategies you can employ to keep costs low during winter:
Driver Training
Investing in driver training can significantly reduce accidents caused by poor driving techniques in icy conditions. Educate your drivers about safe braking distances, gentle acceleration, and how to handle skids.
Route Planning
Plan routes carefully to avoid areas known for severe weather conditions or high traffic congestion due to snow or ice. Using GPS systems that provide real-time traffic updates can help drivers avoid problematic areas.
Fuel Efficiency
Cold weather can affect fuel efficiency negatively due to increased idling times and heavier loads (like snow). Encourage drivers not to idle their engines unnecessarily and ensure they remove any excess weight from their vehicles before setting off.
Emergency Kits
Equip each van with an emergency kit containing essentials like blankets, food supplies, a first-aid kit, de-icer spray, a shovel, and sand or cat litter (for traction). These kits can be lifesavers if a driver gets stranded due to severe weather conditions.
Winter poses unique challenges for commercial fleet owners but taking proactive steps can significantly mitigate risks while keeping costs down. Regular vehicle checks focusing on coolant levels, oil types, windscreen wash fluid concentration, brake fluid levels, tyre condition, and battery health are essential practices every fleet owner should adopt.
Additionally, investing in driver training programs focused on safe winter driving techniques will further reduce accident rates among your fleet members—saving you money on repairs and insurance premiums over time.
By following these tips diligently throughout the colder months ahead—you’ll not only ensure safer journeys but also maintain lower operational costs—proving once again why effective fleet management pays off year-round!
Van Hire Warrington
If you need Warrington Van Hire, then why not choose the company with secure on-site car parking at their Warrington town centre base that customers can use throughout the duration of their Warrington van hire period. Warrington Van Hire is situated close to all the main transport networks in Warrington. For Van Hire Warrington, Van Hire Runcorn, Van Hire Widnes, Van Hire Altrincham & Van Hire St Helens van, please just give us a call today.
