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Trucking’s Challenge 
in 2007

Increasing demands for faster deliveries, on time and at ongoing cost reductions combined with soaring fuel prices, a shortage of drivers and a weaker rand is a major challenge for Transporters and Transport Managers in 2007 
 

BOHDAN DE WET (left) of Volkswagen SA and Peter Wraight (right) of Daimler Chrysler SA working together on the complexities of a case study at a recent workshop.

Now in its third year the FleetWatch Training and Development Academy presents three one-day Workshops that focus on current and emerging issues fundamental to achieving ongoing cost-effective and profitable trucking operations for Transporters and managers of company-owned fleets. Here is a brief synopsis of the agenda: 

Workshop 1 – Tuesday
13 February 2007
Getting to grips with the cost of owning and operating trucks. Focuses on the main operating cost drivers and how best manage them to achieve consistent affordable transport. Managing fuel for optimum efficiency is an important element of this module. 

Only constant review, evaluation and updating of actual costs, work standards and procedures assure costeffective transport operations. Effective use of management information makes it possible to source the data and take timely corrective action. 

Workshop 2 - Wednesday 
14 February 2007
Choosing the right trucks, how best to maintain them and extend the useful life of your vehicles. The task of choosing vehicles is frequently influenced by a variety of individuals representing a wide range of agendas that are not necessarily practical or objective. This Workshop presents a range of proven principles and suggested procedures and the need to avoid expedient, subjective or emotional decisions. 

Maintenance is the work we do to conserve and preserve our vehicles in a safe and roadworthy condition at all times regardless of kilometres or age. 

Workshop 3 – Thursday 
15 February 2007 
Managing Transport –Cost-effective use of vehicles, manpower and resources. This important Workshop reviews a variety of important truck management techniques such as vehicle capability, a layman’s approach to vehicle performance, the impact of routing and scheduling on customer service and operating costs. The module includes a comprehensive overview and discussion on selecting, training and motivating drivers. 

The FleetWatch Training & Development Academy attracts participants from virtually all key transport functions. Each Workshop includes hands-on case studies. Participants work in groups and on their own. Each participant will receive a comprehensive set of notes.

Who should attend? Transporters (large or small), truck rental companies and 3rd party distributors, local government, banks, fleet services companies, vehicle manufacturers and dealers. 

Based on comments from recognised transporters and fleet managers who attended the Workshop in 2005/6 this is a programme you cannot afford to miss. Not to mention the opportunity to share ideas and opinions with the other delegates.