By Cindy Cummings
COVID-19 is stable on cardboard for 24 hours, but the risk of transmission is low. Apart from person to person infections, surfaces are also deemed risky areas in the propagation of the virus. This is a reason why package safety has also become a vital part of a successful fleet and logistics management. In addition to ensuring that shipments are delivered on time and do not get lost, shipping companies and fleet managers have to make sure that packages do not become vectors of the contagion.
Safety And Cleaning Protocols
As a fleet manager, it is your responsibility to provide a safe workplace free from hazards that cause serious harm. Wiping down frequently touched vehicle surfaces such as steering wheels, window buttons, door handles, screens, gear and radios with a sanitizer or a disinfectant is very important. Drivers should also disinfect equipment, including handheld computers, cart handles, toolboxes and scanners.
Drivers must also disinfect their hands after deliveries and cover their mouths and noses with a tissue when sneezing or coughing to avoid the formation of viral droplets on surfaces. Moreover, transporting crews must practice social distancing and limit the number of passengers in a vehicle to prevent or break viral transmission. The wearing of disposable gloves and protective equipment will also help in ensuring that packages are shipped safely, as will limiting customer interaction by allowing drivers to sign on behalf of the clients.
Monitor Inventory And Worker Productivity
During these times, fleet owners are concerned about potential shortages in the supply chain. Since a big portion of parts and equipment are likely produced elsewhere, monitoring what’s happening in the supply chain is vital because stockouts and downtime will impact the company’s operations and the productivity of its employees. Furthermore, using a time tracking software solution can help monitor expenses, payrolls and client billings for more informed decisions. It improves productivity and helps manage shipments by communicating the progress of fleets, ensuring that they arrive in time in a good and safe condition. Time tracking also helps understand the capacity of fleets to cope with high volumes and the extra effort needed to ensure that deliveries are not contaminated.
Boost Maintenance Schedules
To assure that shipments are going to leave and get delivered as scheduled, it is vital to ramp up the maintenance of fleets. Remote repairs should be done as soon as problems are detected to avoid major breakdowns that will affect deliveries and transportation. A seamless flow of goods also ensures the safety of packages, avoiding wastage and spoilage. Moreover, uninterrupted deliveries not only sustain bottom lines, but also ensure the safety and quality of goods and packages. Low levels of downtime also reduce opportunities for handling or mishandling, contributing to the safety and cleanliness of packages.
Fleet and logistics management need to adapt properly to the current global pandemic. Reducing infections and viral transmissions is possible by following safety and hygiene protocols, tracking inventory and employee time, and increasing remote maintenance of fleets to avoid disruptions. Without these changes, it will be difficult to handle and cope with the effects of the COVID-19 virus.