2026: Annual Planning Guide for Fleet Managers

Annual Planning Guide for Fleet Managers - A preview of what's inside the guide

1. Introduction

Fleet Managers play a critical role in keeping businesses productive and compliant. Managing vehicles, maintaining operational efficiency, supporting drivers, and meeting regulatory obligations all require a clear and structured plan.

Connected vehicle systems, such as ABAX Fleet and ABAX Triplog, provide powerful tools for automation and insight. However, the foundation of strong fleet management remains proactive planning and regular review. This guide is structured quarterly, helping you set milestones, maintain compliance, control costs, and build a more sustainable, efficient operation over the year. Adapt it to your own needs - this is a working document, not a static checklist.

2. Q1: Building the foundation for effective fleet management

Fleet overview

Start the year by auditing your fleet and reviewing policies and systems.

• Check HMRC updates on Benefit-in- Kind (BIK) taxation and advisory fuel rates, and ensure company policies reflect the latest figures.

• Audit your vehicle fleet:

  • Are vehicles suitable for current operations?

  • Are any underused?

  • Could low-emission or electric options reduce costs or support

  • ESG targets?

• Ensure all drivers hold valid and appropriate licences, and plan for any necessary renewals or upgrades.

Maintenance planning

Fleet uptime depends on rigorous maintenance oversight.

Confirm that all service intervals and MOTs are scheduled, supported by reminders from connected fleet platforms like ABAX Fleet.

Assign servicing responsibility to drivers but maintain management oversight to ensure compliance.

Encourage immediate damage reporting through clear policies, helping to avoid minor faults becoming major failures.

Asset security

Protecting mobile assets demands vigilance and the right technology.

GPS tracking and geofencing through connected systems like ABAX Fleet can alert you to unauthorised movements and improve asset recovery prospects.

Driver education around theft prevention, secure parking, and reporting suspicious activity strengthens overall security.

Q1 checklist

• Review BIK and advisory fuel rate updates

• Complete vehicle and asset audit

• Update service and MOT trackers

• Review GPS and security measures

• Verify all driver licences