Approximately 42% of fleet managers consider staying informed about regulatory changes as a key element of compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Photo: Government Fleet via Canva.com
3 min to read
A recent study, titled "The State of Fleet Management: Insights on Priorities for Today's Fleet Managers," conducted by the J. J. Keller Center for Market Insights, sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by fleet managers in the transport industry. The study, based on a survey conducted in February 2023, highlighted significant shifts in fleet managers' priorities over time.
Survey results on what fleet managers identify as the most knowledge and skills of their drivers.[|CREDIT|]Photo: J. J. Keller
Shift in Priorities Related to the Fleet
The study revealed a notable 39% increase in the number of fleet managers prioritizing the safe and correct operation of specific vehicle types by their drivers compared to the previous year. Regarding identification of vehicle damage and non-compliance, fleet managers were found to place a higher emphasis on quickly identifying vehicle or trailer damage and non-compliance, as compared to the previous year with a 24% jump.
Ad Loading...
Additionally, the value placed on having all driver files consolidated in one place has increased by 13%, enabling fleet managers to easily demonstrate compliance. In 2022 this was at 22% rising to 35% in 2023.
Fleet managers were surveyed what they believe is the most important aspect of driving training.[|CREDIT|]Photo: J. J. Keller
Emphasis on Regulatory Awareness
The study highlighted the growing importance of regulatory awareness for fleet managers. Approximately 42% of fleet managers consider staying informed about regulatory changes as a key element of compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Fleet managers encounter various challenges in their role, including:
Compliance and Rule Changes: Managing compliance and staying updated with rule changes are cited as significant challenges. Navigating the complex regulatory landscape, which includes OSHA, FMCSA requirements, and various state, city, and county guidelines, is particularly demanding.
Continuous Compliance with Vehicles: Maintaining continuous compliance with all vehicles poses a significant challenge for fleet managers.
A Priority for Driver Knowledge and Skills
Improving the knowledge and skills of drivers is a top priority for fleet managers. The study identifies key areas for improvement, including:
Ad Loading...
Safe and Correct Operation of Vehicle Types: 62% of respondents consider the safe and correct operation of specific vehicle types as the highest priority, marking a substantial 39% increase compared to the previous year.
Injury Prevention and Accident Response: Other important driver knowledge and skills identified include preventing injuries while working and driving (28%), knowing appropriate actions to take in the event of an accident (27%), and avoiding distracted driving (26%).
Support for Continuous Learning
While 63% of fleet managers believe their companies predominantly or entirely emphasize continuous learning, the study reveals that 37% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the level of support they receive.
As the risk of "nuclear verdicts" and FMCSA audits continues to increase, fleet managers are expected to prioritize staying up-to-date with regulatory requirements and enhancing driver knowledge and skills. The insights provided in the study can facilitate discussions among industry stakeholders, helping them understand fleet managers' priorities and constraints while offering support for their ongoing success.
A new addition to Maryland’s marine enforcement fleet is bringing expanded capabilities to Chesapeake Bay operations while honoring a legacy within the agency. The high-performance patrol vessel reflects how law enforcement fleets are adapting to growing demands on the water.
The new X-Tier machines bring together advanced electrified drivetrain technology, intelligent machine controls, and optional operator awareness features.
At look at where to find good talent, what fleets are doing to incentivize those techs to stay within the fleet, and what promotion looks like for a technician within the public sector.
Samsara introduced three AI-powered public sector solutions focused on road condition monitoring, waste service verification, and student ridership management for government agencies and school districts.
Departmentally assigned vehicles often create hidden costs through underutilization, poor visibility, and increased administrative burden. This whitepaper explores how shared motor pool strategies help fleets reduce costs, improve accountability, and optimize vehicle utilization.
Fleet leaders are under pressure to reduce costs, adapt to economic uncertainty, and make smarter decisions. See how peers across North America are responding with real data, proven strategies, and forward-looking insights. Download the 2026 Market Pulse Report to benchmark your strategy and uncover where you can gain an edge.
Taxpayers judge public services by what they can see. Learn how state and local government fleets are using data and transparency to demonstrate reliability, strengthen accountability, and build public confidence in every mile driven.
April covered a lot of ground for government fleets, from Long Beach testing electric refuse trucks to new data on AI adoption, aging assets, and rising service costs.
