“The implementation of DreamTec tablets has revolutionised our fleet management processes, allowing us to operate more efficiently and effectively than ever before.” – Ian Forsyth, Regional General Manager, Highland Fuels.
Founded in Inverness in 1957, Highland Fuels is a growing, forward-thinking supplier of energy for homes, businesses, vehicles and marine craft in Scotland and beyond.
Highland Fuels offers a range of high-quality fuels, lubricants, additives and storage and dispensing tanks for homes, businesses, vehicles and marine craft. Independence and ethical operations are fundamental to the company, which is dedicated to maintaining the fantastic service their customers have come to expect.
- Distribution Network: Scotland, Northern England
- Fleet: 49 vehicles, 11 depots
- Integration: Alfons Haar meters and CODAS ERP
- The challenge
Highland Fuels faced several operational challenges due to outdated, paper-driven processes. With a fleet of 46 trucks servicing a diverse range of customers across various regions, maintaining efficiency and accuracy in operations was becoming increasingly difficult. Manual handling of paperwork, including delivery tickets, loading schedules and driver communications, was time-consuming and often prone to errors and inefficiencies.
Additionally, the lack of integrated navigation systems posed challenges for drivers, especially in remote or unfamiliar areas. The company sought a solution to enhance efficiencies, compliance and customer service whilst helping Highland Fuels stay competitive in the market.
“DreamTec Systems’ solution not only streamlined our operations but also provided invaluable insights into our fleet activities, enabling us to make data-driven decisions and optimise resource allocation.”
The solution
Recognising the need for digital transformation, Highland Fuels partnered with DreamTec Systems to implement a comprehensive solution aimed at streamlining operations and enhancing overall efficiency. The core of the solution was the integration of DreamTec’s Mobile Fleet Management into Highland Fuels’ ERP system. Providing drivers with real-time access to delivery schedules, loading information and navigation assistance, significantly reducing the reliance on manual paperwork and improving route optimisation.
“DreamTec Systems has become an integral part of our operations, driving efficiency and profitability.”
The results
The implementation of DreamTec’s solution yielded significant improvements across various aspects of Highland Fuels’ operations:
1. Time savings: Implementing DreamTec Systems resulted in significant time savings, with estimates indicating up to an hour and a half saved per depot each day. Enabling staff to focus on more value-added tasks, enhancing overall efficiency.
2. Improved navigation: Integrated navigation features provided drivers with precise directions to delivery locations, improving delivery efficiency and route optimisation, also resulting in reduced training times for new drivers.
3. Streamlined data management: By replacing paper-based processes with digital solutions, Highland Fuels experienced faster and more accurate data transmission. In addition, the system offered real-time insights into fleet activities, providing management with actionable data to optimise operations.
4. Improved customer service: Digitising processes led to quicker response times and improved communication, enabling Highland Fuels to provide superior customer service. Additionally, features such as customer feedback and photo documentation enhanced communication and transparency with clients.
“The transition from manual paperwork to digital tablets saved an average of 1.5 hours per depot per day, allowing resources to be redirected towards safety and strategic initiatives.”
DreamTec worked closely with Highland Fuels’ management team to customise the system according to their specific requirements, including seamless integration with their existing CODAS system and Alfons Haar metering system. Extensive training sessions were conducted to ensure drivers were proficient with the new technology.
“The whole experience has been fantastic. CODAS, Alfons Haar and DreamTec have done a great job.”
System highlights for Highland Fuels
• Time saving efficiencies across the business.
• Integrated navigation improving route optimisation.
• Real-time insights into fleet activities.
• Enhanced customer service offering.
Image credit: DreamTec
