Navigating the complexities of managing a fleet amongst the mountains of paperwork is challenging, especially when you consider productivity, safety, and cost efficiencies. One big piece of this puzzle is Road User Charges (RUC), which can significantly impact your bottom line, yet the full picture that emerges is an end-to-end fleet management solution. As New Zealand’s 3G networks begin to shut down in 2025 and new technologies emerge, fleet managers must be smart about their approach to their fleet operations.
Why RUC management matters
Managing RUC can be a real headache. Tracking expiry dates, calculating rebates, and staying compliant is a lot of work, no matter the size of your fleet. Traditional methods are time-consuming and prone to errors or omissions, leading to administrative hassles and the risk of fines for expired licences. If you’re still manually checking, purchasing and distributing RUC licences, the work is eating up time and adding costs for postage and admin work. Furthermore, tracking off-road travel to claim rebates can be a massive task, often leading to overpayments or even missed claims.
Embracing electronic RUC solutions
With Spark, 2degrees and One New Zealand’s 3G networks all shutting down in 2025, now is the perfect time to switch. eRUC systems simplify the whole process. With electronic distance recorders approved by NZTA Waka Kotahi fitted to your vehicles, the system can manage, purchase, display, and update RUC licences in real-time. Teletrac Navman’s RUC Manager, can help you track off-road activity with second-by-second location data and sophisticated mapping and geofencing to help maximise rebates and ensure accurate claims.
“The eRUC solution has transformed our rebate claims process. What used to take over four hours now takes just around 15 minutes. Accuracy has improved significantly, and we receive our rebates within a week, whereas previously it took around a month,” said Jeff Smith, Managing Director for Swanson Transport in Auckland.
Teletrac Navman’s RUC Manager also works seamlessly with electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), making it a versatile choice for modern fleets. As more businesses transition to EVs, having a solution that accommodates these vehicles allows you to expand into the future.
The future of fleet management
As technology evolves, so does its role in fleet management. Nearly half of New Zealand’s technology leaders invest in non-premise IoT technology, including transportation and traffic management. This is part of a broader trend where advancements such as AI are set to revolutionise fleet operations.
With a smart AI-powered fleet management solution, your business can cut transportation and logistics costs. In a recent telematics benchmark survey, 98% of respondents use telematics solutions on all or part of their fleet, while 47% are currently utilising AI solutions.
This can offer predictive insights, improve route planning, and optimise fuel use. As 3G networks are phased out, moving to 4G and other new technologies will give fleet managers the tools they need to stay ahead.
Integrated with a RUC management system, TN360 can offer a comprehensive fleet management experience. Teletrac Navman’s TN360 delivers actionable insights, simplifies processes, and boosts productivity. A comprehensive fleet management solution helps fleet managers make data-driven decisions and maintain a competitive edge by automating routine tasks and using the insights and analytics it provides.
Choosing the right fleet management provider
What matters is finding a provider who excels in customer support, offers user-friendly technology and provides good value for money. You need a solution that does more than handle RUC – it should improve your entire fleet management.
Consider whether the provider offers a complete solution covering your needs when evaluating options. Making the right choice ensures that your fleet management processes are streamlined, compliant, and cost-effective.
As New Zealand’s transport industry embraces new technologies, fleet managers must stay ahead. The transition to 4G and the adoption of AI will shape the future of fleet management. You can streamline operations, cut costs, and boost productivity by choosing modern solutions and the right fleet management partner. With 4G just around the corner, now is the ideal time to review your fleet management solutions. Make sure they’re still effective. If not, don’t miss this chance to upgrade to technology that gives you a real edge.
For a future-proof fleet management solution that integrates cutting-edge technology with exceptional customer service, visit Teletrac Navman at https://www.teletracnavman.co.nz/ or call 0800 447 735. Make the smart choice today and move your fleet business forward with certainty.
