How Do Fleets Manage Their Commercial Truck Tires?

By learning more about how other companies are managing their commercial truck tires, you can build a maintenance program that optimizes your return on investment and improves vehicle safety. Our trusted team at STTC has decades of experience in the commercial truck tire industry and in this new post, we’ll delve into the details of how to use the latest data to maximize fleet tire life.

The data shows how fleets manage commercial truck tires

A study by the American Trucking Associations’ Technology and Maintenance Council surveyed 435 fleets regarding their maintenance of commercial truck tires. Within the surveyed fleets, the average number of trailers per fleet was 2,093. The study found the following:

• Only 4% of companies completed tire pressure checks daily
• 33% of companies completed tire pressure checks monthly
• The average tire life-time – miles before being taken off – was 117,000 miles for steer tires
• Drive tires averaged 236,000 miles before being removed
• The average fleet had 93 service calls per month for tire-related roadside emergencies
• 25% of fleets have a benchmarking process in place for comparing tire use with competitors

Tips for improving tire life

Using the data revealed in the Technology and Maintenance Council study, we’ve developed the following tips to help you improve tire life for the years ahead:

Implement regular tire checks

Checking tires at least once per month can help you to reduce your tire maintenance costs within your fleet. Check the tread depth and the tire inflation level to maximize performance.

Look beyond OEM standards

OEM standards provide a base line for performance within the trucking industry. But your company must look beyond this baseline if you are to choose the best tires for your fleet. Select tires that exceed the OEM standards in the areas important for your business and ensure full tire compatibility before making your investment.

Consider seasonal requirements

Your tire needs will likely change, particularly during the winter season, which can be tough on even the most durable tires. And so, it’s important to consider your tire requirements for each season. During the winter you might consider increasing the number of inspections you undertake and changing your drivers’ working processes to ensure maximum safety in the cooler weather. Working with a trusted tire company can help ensure you have the information you require to build your tire management program. Our team at STTC has decades of experience in the industry and we’re now offering affordable pricing on the leading tire models. Call today to speak with our team!