mizing downtime. With parts shortages and high demand for experienced technicians, software and tech solutions are transforming maintenance and repair processes.
Enhanced Communication Systems for Fast Repairs Companies are adopting real-time tracking and diagnostic software to monitor their trucks’ health on the go. This technology allows for immediate alerts to service teams if a truck starts to show signs of trouble. By pinpointing issues early, these systems help drivers avoid lengthy delays and streamline the repair process.
Reece, who has relied more on traditional techniques, appreciates this shift but sees both sides of it.“ When you know your equipment well, it cuts way down on trips to the shop because I can fix most of it myself,” he explains. Yet, he acknowledges that newer trucks with advanced tech have their advantages, even if they come with a price.
Vehicle Maintenance Reporting Standards( VMRS) Coding Systems
Another tool making life easier for trucking companies is the VMRS coding system. This standardized set of codes categorizes every part, repair and fault in a truck, making it easier for technicians to diagnose and fix issues quickly.
With VMRS, technicians can pinpoint exactly what part they need or what repair is required, helping keep trucks on the road and out of the shop. In short, VMRS cuts down on diagnostic time and reduces costly downtime— something every fleet manager can appreciate.
Veteran drivers like Reece also recognize the value in such a system, even if it looks different than the early days of keeping a truck running. As he puts it,“ when you haul as often as I do, it’ s not an‘ if,’ it’ s a‘ when’ because you will have those problems. It’ s unavoidable.” For Reece, a system like VMRS can help streamline the inevitable repairs that come with the miles, allowing driv-
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