The trucking industry experienced a 22 percent increase in roadside problems during the first quarter of this year compared to the fourth quarter of 2018, according to a report from the Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC)/FleetNet America Vertical Benchmarking Program.
The mechanical systems to experience the most problems were the exhaust and lighting systems.
In addition, repairs cost the industry $344 during the first quarter, the third consecutive quarter of increases. Repairs cost 15 percent more than during the third quarter of 2018 and 3 percent higher than during the fourth quarter of 2018.
“Completing repairs on the side of the road is already more expensive than completing the same repair in a shop,” Robert Braswell, TMC Executive Director, said. “TMC is committed to helping our members control these and all maintenance costs. We believe that the vertical benchmarking program is a tool that fleets can use to reduce unscheduled roadside repairs.”
The program is a strategic collaboration between the American Trucking Associations’ TMC and FleetNet America. It is open to TMC fleet executive level members and FleetNet America customers. Participants are provided with an analytic tool.
The report was released at the Fleet Data Management & Cybersecurity Conference.