Size Matters: Why Large Fleets Have Fewer Violations (and what smaller fleets can do to improve)

Last Updated: November 24, 2024By

When it comes to trucking and FMCSA violations, size matters. It’s not just a headline—it’s the stark reality. As the numbers show, larger fleets (those with 100+ trucks) consistently rack up fewer violations compared to their smaller counterparts. But why is that? Are big fleets simply better at playing the compliance game, or is there more to the story? Let’s dive into the data.

The Data Doesn’t Lie

The charts tell a compelling story. Let’s look at brake violations, for example. In 2024, fleets with 1–10 trucks saw their violation numbers skyrocket past 30,000 per month. Meanwhile, large fleets, the supposed “dinosaurs” of the industry, kept their brake violation numbers well under 10,000. And when you factor in all violations, the gap is even wider. Small fleets are practically sprinting to hit six-digit violations, while large fleets are sitting comfortably with half that number.

Clearly, large fleets have figured something out. Are they bribing inspectors with donuts? Do their trucks drive themselves? Or do they have some super-secret playbook the rest of us don’t know about? Spoiler: It’s a mix of structure, resources, and, well, experience.

Why Do Large Fleets Have Fewer Violations?

1. Big Fleets, Bigger Compliance Departments

Here’s the thing: when you’re a small fleet owner with three trucks and a dog in the office, you don’t have the luxury of hiring a team of compliance nerds who obsess over every FMCSA rule. Large fleets, on the other hand, have entire departments dedicated to staying on top of regulations. These folks eat, sleep, and breathe DOT inspections.

Small fleets? They’re more likely to be googling “What is an FMCSA audit?” at 2 a.m.

2. Economies of Scale (AKA, More Money, Fewer Problems)

Let’s not ignore the obvious—money talks. Large fleets have the financial resources to invest in fancy things like:

  • New trucks with better safety features.
  • Advanced maintenance programs to keep their rigs in tip-top shape.
  • Driver training programs that actually work.

Meanwhile, smaller fleets are trying to figure out how to stretch their repair budget after Jerry decided to “fix” his brakes with duct tape and good intentions.

3. Standardized Processes

Big fleets don’t just wing it. They’ve got policies and procedures for everything: from how to check tire pressure to how to blink at a weigh station. Drivers in these fleets don’t get to freelance their way through inspections. Everything is monitored, tracked, and double-checked.

Smaller fleets? Processes are usually less formal. If your compliance strategy is “make sure the truck looks decent from a distance,” you might end up in violation city.

4. Data and Technology

Large fleets have fully embraced telematics and other technologies to keep tabs on their trucks. These systems can flag potential issues—like brake wear—long before they become a problem.

Small fleets often lack the budget for such tools. Instead, their version of tech is “wait for the driver to call and complain about a funny noise.”

5. Bigger Fleets Play Defense

Here’s a fun fact: larger fleets tend to have more to lose when it comes to their safety scores and reputation. A bad CSA score can tank their ability to secure contracts with major shippers, so they have a vested interest in staying squeaky clean.

Smaller fleets, while still concerned about their scores, don’t face the same level of scrutiny—or the same risk of losing multi-million-dollar contracts.

Why Do Smaller Fleets Struggle?

It’s not that smaller fleets aren’t trying. But let’s face it: they’re up against some tough odds.

  • Limited Resources: Smaller fleets can’t afford the same level of preventive maintenance or compliance oversight.
  • Driver Fatigue: Smaller operations often mean drivers are pulling double-duty, which can lead to mistakes.
  • Fewer Training Opportunities: Without formal training programs, many drivers and mechanics are left to figure things out as they go.

It’s a classic case of David vs. Goliath—except in this version, Goliath has a state-of-the-art fleet management system and David is duct-taping his headlights back on.

What Can Smaller Fleets Do?

If you’re running a small fleet and feel personally attacked by this article, fear not. There are ways to level the playing field:

  1. Invest in Maintenance: It might be painful, but skimping on maintenance will cost you more in violations down the road.
  2. Use Technology: Affordable telematics solutions are out there. You don’t need to break the bank to stay ahead of issues.
  3. Get Serious About Training: Even a simple training session can go a long way toward improving compliance.
  4. Leverage Partnerships: Team up with larger fleets for shared resources or participate in industry groups for support.

Conclusion: Bigger Is Better (In This Case)

When it comes to FMCSA violations, larger fleets have the advantage. They’ve got the money, the manpower, and the experience to keep their records cleaner than a new truck’s windshield.

Smaller fleets, while scrappy and hardworking, are often left playing catch-up. But with a little planning and investment, even the smallest operators can make strides toward a cleaner compliance record.

 

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