Top fleet manager’s concerns: safety, compliance, and cost control

The J.J. Keller Center for Market Insights recently published a study on the top concerns of today’s fleet managers.

The J.J. Keller Center for Market Insights recently published a study on the top concerns of today’s fleet managers. This fourth edition of the report was conducted in February 2024 through a survey of 489 fleet managers across the United States and Canada.

The study reveals that the primary concerns among these professionals include driver safety, regulatory compliance, and the management of operational expenses. Additionally, 74% of respondents reported that addressing issues such as driver training, adoption of new vehicle technologies, and vehicle maintenance presents a moderate to extreme challenge. These insights provide an internal perspective on the key difficulties currently facing the trucking and freight transportation industry.

Top concerns for fleet managers

The J.J. Keller Center for Market Insights found that safety and regulatory compliance remain top priorities for fleet managers. Nearly 60% of respondents identified driver knowledge and safe vehicle operation as their main concerns, followed closely by the prevention of distracted driving and the need for accurate vehicle inspections.

Fleet managers also face ongoing challenges in adapting to regulatory changes, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring effective driver training. In fact, 47% emphasized the importance of well-organized driver qualification (DQ) files, and many highlighted the need for training programs that are tailored, accessible, and engaging for their specific operational needs. Another growing concern is compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, with reported concern rising from 20% in 2023 to 33% in 2024.

According to the study, these are the primary concerns among fleet managers:

Driver knowledge and skills: Safe and proper operation of vehicles – 58%
Driver training: Training tailored to the specific needs of drivers, operations, vehicles, or industry – 47%
FMCSA compliance: Maintaining accurate and well-organized driver qualification (DQ) files – 47%
New vehicle technology: Ensuring drivers adopt and use new vehicle technologies correctly – 35%
Overall safety: Demonstrating consistent leadership that emphasizes safety – 51%
Vehicle maintenance: Quickly identifying when a vehicle or trailer is damaged or non-compliant – 46%
Expense management: Effective preventive maintenance to avoid costly breakdowns or accidents – 57%

Recurring concerns among fleet managers

Over the four years this survey has been conducted, the J.J. Keller Center for Market Insights has identified several recurring concerns among fleet managers. While the percentage of respondents citing each issue may vary annually, the core priorities remain consistent: driver safety, regulatory compliance, training, maintenance, and expense management.

Driver training is a clear example. Managers emphasize the importance of turning theoretical knowledge into safe, efficient on-road practices. When it comes to FMCSA compliance, staying up to date with ever-evolving regulations remains a significant challenge.

General safety is another top priority, with a strong focus on ensuring employees make safe decisions not only while driving but also during emergencies or unexpected situations.

Advancements in vehicle technology present both opportunities and challenges. Many fleet managers report difficulties in getting drivers to properly adopt and utilize new technologies, an essential step toward improving operational efficiency.

Lastly, vehicle maintenance and cost control continue to be persistent hurdles. Despite the complexities of today’s transportation environment, these challenges can be overcome through a commitment to continuous improvement, the integration of technology, and a workplace culture centered on safety and compliance.