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4 tips to overcome vehicle shortages

posted on 01/08/2023
  • Overview
  • Top tips
  • How can Alphabet help?
Timely fleet vehicle provision remains a challenge for fleets.
With the continuing global shortage of semiconductor chips and disrupted logistics, new vehicle lead times remain fairly lengthy which in turn is driving up demand (and costs) in the used vehicle market.
Here you’ll find our four top tips for how to reduce the impact of this on your fleet.

Tips for overcoming shortages

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1. Start your planning early

Start planning (and discussing with your vehicle leasing provider) your vehicle needs well in advance. Although lead times have improved in the last 18 months, it’s still worth aiming to start order discussions 6-9 months in advance (or 9-12 months in advance for Commercial Vehicles).

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2. Use flexible rental solutions to avoid employee downtime

Short and medium-term rental solutions like Alphabet Rent offer a flexible way to keep your employees on the road in case of longer-than-anticipated lead times or delivery delays.

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3. Extend the life of your existing fleet

With price fluctuations and longer lead times putting pressure on new vehicle orders, your existing fleet may be needed for longer than you had planned. Take a proactive approach to servicing and maintenance. That way you’ll be able to spot and resolve any issues early. Also you may wish to consider extending the contract of your existing leases to reduce your reliance on new vehicle orders.

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4. Consider the alternatives

With demand for certain vehicles and vehicle types higher than others, speak to your fleet supplier about alternatives which may be suitable (and potentially available sooner). This is also a good time to review your vehicle needs and see if downsizing would be possible. However, be wary of swapping to something which doesn’t meet your fuel efficiency, spec or sustainability needs. If a good swap isn’t available, it’s usually better to wait for the right vehicle (potentially bridging the gap with a rental solution) than be stuck with something which is unsuitable in the long-run.

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How can Alphabet help?

We’re working hard to keep your business moving by expanding vehicle choice lists to include more readily available options, leveraging relationships to stock and, crucially, anticipating disruption. Our team are experts in mobility and the changing landscape of the fleet market – so you don’t have to be.

Get in touch on 01252 976 010 or SME@alphabetcorporatesupport.co.uk to learn how we can help you overcome vehicle shortages and keep your business moving.

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