TDW Distribution, one of South Wales’ largest distribution companies, is employing the latest mobile technology to improve its fleet maintenance operation. Part of the installation of new management software supplied by Freeway Fleet Systems, tablet devices are being introduced to help eliminate paperwork and replace it with electronic inspection reports and job cards.

TDW operates a fleet of 90 vehicles and 185 trailers, transporting fast moving consumer goods throughout South Wales and beyond. Freeway is a comprehensive system that provides TDW fleet managers with a detailed insight into all aspects of fleet maintenance work, allowing tight controls over costs and compliance.

“Freeway represents a significant step forward in the management of our fleet. The software provides a host of really useful features that will allow us to improve efficiency and maintain a tighter control on quality, costs and compliance,” said Andrew Williams, MD of TDW Distribution. “In the workshop, the tablets link directly to the Freeway system and allow easy data capture; they will eliminate subsequent keying in, improve transparency and reduce errors.”

Freeway’s software is integrated with TDW’s Mandata Transport Management System (TMS), providing visibility into the availability and status of every vehicle in the fleet. Freeway also provides useful fleet analytics, improved stock control with cyclic stock checks, and smartphone apps for stock takes. It also allows outsourced maintenance to be tracked for better management and cost control.

“One really useful feature offered is Freeway’s Fleet Analytics,” added Williams. “Here we accurately analyse the productivity and efficiency of the fleet with graphical reports to identify trends across time, vehicle manufacturer and location. It means we can quickly pinpoint areas of excessive costs, whether they be high fuel consumption, inferior parts, unproductive use of labour or poor driving.”