Safer Spec’ing Steps

March 2, 2001
BALTIMORE – Douglas Weichman has a warning for government and municipal fleets. When you write up vehicle specs for competitive bids, keep a sharp eye on the details. “Overloading a vehicle is one of the worst things that happens in our industry,” said Weichman, director of fleet operations for Palm Beach County, Fla., while speaking at this week’s National Truck Equipment Assn. Convention. “You have
BALTIMORE – Douglas Weichman has a warning for government and municipal fleets. When you write up vehicle specs for competitive bids, keep a sharp eye on the details.

“Overloading a vehicle is one of the worst things that happens in our industry,” said Weichman, director of fleet operations for Palm Beach County, Fla., while speaking at this week’s National Truck Equipment Assn. Convention. “You have to make sure the specs you put together can handle the loads that will be put on the vehicle in the field. If you don’t, an issue like this will come out in an accident situation – where liability can become a big problem.”

Weichman explained that one of the best ways fleet managers can avoid overloading is to use what he calls the “10% rule.” When selecting a vehicle, purchase one that – when fully loaded – is at or below 90% of its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).

That means when the vehicle’s chassis weight, body and accessories, full load of fuel, full passenger complement, and full load are combined, it only uses up 90% of the available GVWR. Though having that 10% of unused capacity can add to the cost of the initial purchase, a fleet should save money over the life of the vehicle, as running at or below 90% capacity cuts down on maintenance costs, said Weichman.

“You save a lot of money on brake repairs, tires, driveline work, and other maintenance over the vehicle’s life by NOT operating at the top edge of its GVWR,” he said. “From my perspective, it’s worth it.”

About the Author

Sean Kilcarr | Editor in Chief

Sean reports and comments on trends affecting the many different strata of the trucking industry -- light and medium duty fleets up through over-the-road truckload, less-than-truckload, and private fleet operations Also be sure to visit Sean's blog Trucks at Work where he offers analysis on a variety of different topics inside the trucking industry.

Sponsored Recommendations

Tackling the Tech Shortage: Lessons in Recruiting Talent and Reducing Turnover

Discover innovative strategies for recruiting and retaining tech talent in the trucking industry at our April 16th webinar, where experts will share insights on competitive pay...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!