Changes in Fleet Services, Outsourcing Work

In June and July, Government Fleet magazine solicited responses to a biennial survey from its readership, receiving 81 qualified responses from a diverse group of public fleet professionals. Information from this issue labeled “Source: Government Fleet Research” comes from this opt-in survey.

Services Outsourced to Outside Service Providers

Respondents were asked what services they outsource to other vendors, with more than one response possible. Respondents reported that most outsourcing was done for body and paint work (78.26%). This was followed closely by towing then glass. These were also the top three outsourcing services in 2021. 

For 2023, body and paint were at the top of the services outsourced while in 2021, glass was most reported. At the bottom of the list for 2023 were PM/repairs for alt-fueled vehicles, computer-related repair issues, and parts management. 

Changes in Oursourcing and Providing Uniforms, Tools

Most respondents reported that fleet outsourcing has stayed the same in the past year. However, about 17% reported that they have began outsourcing more services while about 6% reported they have begun in-house work on services normally outsourced, not including work done for other agencies. 

The majority of fleets that reported more outsourcing have begun to do so mainly due to staffing shortages, particularly technicians. 

Most respondents (almost 90%) reported that their fleet does provide uniforms, or allowances for them while 78% provide tools, or allowances for tools. These ratios are similar to the 2021 reports with most fleets providing tools and uniforms, or allowances for them, for their employees.

Read More: Looking at Varying Fleet Operations Through Benchmark Statistics