By Mpho Selepe, Acting Logistics Manager: SPM
Every hour a vehicle is off the road has a ripple effect. It delays projects, disrupts schedules, and increases costs. In logistics, uptime isn’t just a metric — it’s the backbone of operational reliability. Preventative maintenance is how we protect it.
Breakdowns rarely happen without warning. They usually start small: a missed inspection, a delayed service, or a worn component ignored because it “doesn’t matter yet.” Mechanical issues are predictable when you know what to look for — and take action early.
Here are six practical ways we reduce vehicle downtime and keep operations moving.
- Make Maintenance Routine
Vehicles shouldn’t wait to break down before being serviced. A structured schedule based on manufacturer recommendations, mileage, and operating conditions keeps small issues from turning into major repairs. Planned downtime costs far less than unplanned repairs and keeps the fleet reliable.
- Make Daily Checks Non-Negotiable
Drivers are the first line of defence. A quick pre-trip inspection — checking tyres, brakes, fluids, and lights — takes minutes but prevents days of delays. When drivers take responsibility for the vehicles they operate, the entire operation benefits.
- Use Data to Stay Ahead
Tracking performance metrics like fuel efficiency, engine performance, and maintenance history highlights vehicles that need attention before they fail. Data-driven decisions allow us to intervene early, keeping the fleet moving smoothly.
- Prioritise Quality Over Short-Term Savings
Cutting corners on parts or repairs may save money in the short term, but it creates hidden costs down the line. Using quality parts and trusted service providers ensures vehicles remain reliable and productive over time.
- Train and Empower Drivers
A skilled, engaged driver is as important as a well-maintained vehicle. Training drivers to spot warning signs, handle equipment properly, and report issues immediately reduces downtime and fosters a culture of accountability.
- Keep Maintenance Records Clear and Centralised
Centralised records for every vehicle — detailing inspections, repairs, and replacements — make trends visible and decisions informed. Transparency in maintenance history ensures nothing is overlooked and allows for proactive planning, rather than reactive firefighting.
Downtime is rarely unavoidable — it’s often the result of oversight. Preventative maintenance isn’t just a technical requirement; it’s a leadership responsibility. At SPM, we protect our fleet, our people, and our projects by being proactive, disciplined, and deliberate. That’s how we keep work on schedule, clients satisfied, and operations running efficiently.
