Reducing Downtime: Maintenance Tips for Your Fleet

Let’s be honest, nothing kills your day faster than a truck breaking down mid-route. One second you’re hauling, the next you’re waiting on a tow, rescheduling pickups, and losing money. The good news? A little maintenance love goes a long way.

Here’s how to keep your fleet running smoother, longer, and with less drama.

1. Stick to a Schedule (No, Really)

Oil changes. Brake checks. Fluid top-offs. You already know the drill. But the trick is consistency. Trucks don’t break down because the oil was dirty once; they break down because it was dirty every time.

Pro tip: Use your dispatcher software to track service intervals. Set reminders so you’re not relying on someone’s memory (we’ve all got enough to remember).

2. Make Pre-Trip Inspections Non-Negotiable

Daily walkarounds might seem like overkill, but they catch small issues before they become big ones. Loose hoses, worn tires, funky noises — this is the stuff that snowballs if ignored.

Checklist to post in the yard:

Tires and pressure
Lights and signals
Fluid levels
Leaks
Brakes
Hydraulics

Five minutes now could save five hours on the side of the road later.

3. Train Your Drivers to Report Issues (and Mean It)

Drivers are your first line of defense. If they notice something off — a weird rattle, sluggish lift, overheating — they need to say something ASAP.

The key? Make it easy to report issues. No paper forms that get shoved in cupholders. Use roll off dumpster software or a mobile app so they can report problems with a couple of taps, right from the cab.

4. Keep Spare Parts on Hand

Waiting three days for a new hydraulic hose is downtime you can’t afford. Keep the basics in stock — filters, belts, lights, hoses — anything that goes out often and can be swapped quickly.

And while you’re at it, make sure your mechanics (or your go-to shop) know your fleet inside and out. Relationships matter when you need help now.

5. Wash Your Trucks (Yes, Seriously)

You’d be surprised how much a good scrub can save you. Built-up grime, road salt, and hydraulic fluid leaks can hide cracks, rust out your undercarriage, and eat through wiring faster than you think. Plus, a clean truck helps you spot small issues before they become expensive ones.

Set a regular wash schedule, inside and out. Your fleet will last longer, and your brand will look better out on the road.

Keep Your Fleet Moving with Hauler Software

While you’re keeping your trucks in top shape, don’t forget about the systems that keep your business running. DSQ Hauler helps you manage your operation from dispatch to drop-off with tools made for haulers like you: