Winter is a beautiful time of year, but it can also be a dangerous one, especially in the logistics industry. Fuel suppliers and their fleets face unique challenges in the winter season, whether it be an unexpected snowstorm or below-freezing temperatures. In order to continue serving clients well into the winter months, it’s important to be prepared well ahead of time. Here’s everything you should know about getting your fleet ready for the winter season.
When to Start Winterizing
First things first: if you’re starting to winterize in the winter, you’re already behind. Most experts recommend that you start winterizing in the fall, preferably September or October. That way, you have plenty of time to get the proper equipment and make sure you’re prepared well before those cold temperatures hit. Around Labor Day, you should be discussing winterization at the very least, and perhaps even starting to get ready for the colder months.
Educate Your Drivers
One of the most important things to do to prepare for the winter is to make sure that your drivers are confident. Driving a truck in the winter is different from any other season, so your training program should involve special instruction for these months. Consider even holding additional training as winter approaches. Drivers new and experienced should all attend, as these courses can make a good refresher for all. Make sure your drivers know how to use all of their equipment and how to best maintain their trucks for peak safety and performance.
Get the Proper Gear
Of course, winter also requires special gear, so you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared well ahead of time. This involves taking care of your drivers as well as your trucks. For your drivers, encourage them to keep the right gear in their truck in case of emergencies. This might include blankets, hats, warm clothes, extra food, or anything else your drivers might need to stay safe and warm.
For the truck, specific equipment can come in handy. Jumper cables, quality wiper blades, salt and ice melt, fuel additives, and ice scrapers can all be incredibly useful in the winter months. Additionally, as the cold starts to come in, be sure to test all the batteries in your fleet and make sure they’re performing as they should be, and make sure all tires are in good condition with an aggressive tread.
No matter what the winter holds, the team at Guttman is here for you. We’re proud to offer logistics services, fuel supply, and consulting to give your company what it needs to succeed. We’ll work directly with you to understand your unique needs and come up with a plan that goes above and beyond. Plus, we’re always available to help answer your questions and set your business up for success. Contact us today to learn more about Guttman Energy and all of our services.
