Whether you’re running one combine or 10, two tractors or 20, you’ve got a fleet, and you count on it to keep you productive. It’s much more than equipment; it’s an asset. Like any asset, it requires management to achieve an optimal return.
When we talk fleet management, we often think maintenance records, repair history, etc. But with today’s technology, you can achieve so much more, extract more value not only from your equipment but also from your operation. Here are some tips and considerations to help you get there:
Why bother? Sure, staying on top of maintenance can help you head off downtime and bigger repair bills. Fleet management can go so much deeper. The more you know, the tighter you manage, the bigger the dividends.
If you choose, you can give your Case IH dealer remote access to your fleet via AFS Connect™. But with AFS Connect, it’s always your data; you control its access.
Time savings. Tracking oil changes and timely preventive maintenance can help you spend less time fixing and more time tilling, planting or harvesting. A fully integrated fleet management system, such as AFS Connect™ advanced farm management system from Case IH, can identify and report problems before they escalate — maybe while they still can be resolved remotely. Even the basics, such as helping a new employee eliminate wrong turns and find his or her way to the right field, can save time. The same technology can quickly guide a repair truck or a fuel truck. Beyond helping you anticipate trouble, notifications and alerts can help with simple tasks, such as ensuring you have the right air filter on hand.
Efficiency. Time and efficiency go hand in glove. But there are other contributors to operational efficiency. The most advanced fleet management technology can monitor distance traveled, acres covered, speed, slippage, engine performance, fuel use, idle time and much more.
Tools. AFS Connect is a fully integrated fleet management system that provides real-time dashboard access to your equipment on any device, along with the power to decide who can see or can’t see your data. Other options — as simple as a computer spreadsheet, software or a basic smartphone app — can help you ease into fleet management and begin to uncover the extensive benefits.
If you’re ready to make a bigger leap into fleet management, or just want to learn more, talk to the people at your local Case IH dealer. They’ll be happy to help.
