Ryan Fitzgerald has spent over a decade helping fleets run smoother, safer, and smarter. Here, he answers the five questions he hears most from operators looking to make their fleet work harder.
“Fleet management isn’t just about cars. It’s about people, predictability, and peace of mind.”
1. What’s the biggest mistake companies make when choosing a fleet management partner?
The biggest mistake I see is treating fleet management like a commodity, as if it’s just another purchase to compare by price. Many companies focus on whether one lease rate is $15 or $20 cheaper per month, but that narrow view misses the bigger picture.
These vehicles are driven by some of the company’s highest-compensated, revenue-generating employees. If a driver is stranded on the side of the road, late to a client meeting, or distracted by vehicle issues, the lost productivity far outweighs those small monthly savings.
Choosing a partner based on price alone risks frustrating the very people who drive your business forward. The better question to ask is: Which partner will maximize uptime, make the vehicle feel like a benefit, and help my team stay productive and happy?
Pro Tip: A great FMC doesn’t just deliver cars; they deliver consistency, reliability, and peace of mind for the people behind the wheel.
2. How can fleet management help control costs without sacrificing driver experience?
It starts with looking at the complete picture, not just the sticker price. Many fleets focus only on the upfront cost of a vehicle, but factors like depreciation, fuel economy, reliability, and safety ratings can make a huge difference over time.
At Motorlease, we build those factors into our fixed-cost, closed-end lease model. This structure lets clients budget confidently because we take on the residual value and maintenance risk. The result is fair, consistent spending across the fleet and a better experience for drivers.
Pro Tip: Don’t confuse “cheaper” with “lower cost.” A cost-effective fleet is one that runs efficiently, minimizes downtime, and keeps your people satisfied.
3. What should I look for in a fleet management company beyond the basics?
Look for a partner that manages the entire vehicle life cycle, not just the purchase or lease. Too many companies run their vehicles until they fail, turning them into “organ donors” for parts. A strong FMC helps you plan replacements before maintenance costs start to climb.
Also, see your fleet program as a recruiting and retention tool. A company car is a visible sign of how much you value your employees. It can boost morale, attract top talent, and strengthen loyalty. I can say firsthand that my Motorlease vehicle makes me feel appreciated—and honestly, it would make leaving a lot harder. That’s the value of doing fleet management right.
“If we do our job correctly, our customers should be more productive.”
4. How can fleet management make operations more predictable?
Predictability comes from removing risk. At Motorlease, our fixed-cost programs eliminate surprise expenses, giving clients financial stability and peace of mind.
We’re proactive in how we manage fleets. Because we take on the risk of ownership, it’s in everyone’s best interest to monitor performance and plan vehicle cycles before problems arise. That helps fleets stay ahead rather than react to breakdowns or shortages.
And when something unexpected happens, clients know who to call. We’re not a call center—we’re a team of 45 people who know our customers by name. Our goal is always one call, one answer, so drivers can get back on the road quickly.
Pro Tip: Predictability isn’t just about data. It’s about having a partner who answers the phone when it matters.
5. What’s one thing you wish more fleet operators asked about?
I wish more companies looked beyond the numbers and thought about how their fleet impacts their overall success. Everyone says it’s not about price, but when the final decision is made, it often comes down to just that.
A well-managed fleet supports sales, protects your brand, and keeps key employees engaged. It’s not just an expense—it’s a strategic tool that can drive measurable business growth.
Bonus: What trends should fleet operators be preparing for over the next 3–5 years?
Electric vehicle adoption is the biggest one. Every company should have a realistic plan based on their business goals and infrastructure. For some, starting with hybrids might make more sense before going fully electric.
Another major shift is data clarity. There’s more telematics data than ever, but much of it isn’t useful. Focus on the information that actually drives better decisions for your business.
Sustainability expectations will also keep growing. Clients and partners are paying closer attention to ESG performance, so planning your fleet with that in mind is key. Add in economic swings and supply-chain changes, and it’s clear that flexibility and foresight will define successful fleet strategies.
Bonus: How do you balance short-term fleet needs with long-term strategy?
Short-term needs are unavoidable—accidents, new hires, and emergencies happen—but they’re always more expensive. The right partner helps you handle those situations and then creates a plan to prevent them in the future.
Fleet management is a long game. The more you plan ahead, the better it runs. At Motorlease, we check in throughout the year, review performance every spring, and plan the next vehicle cycle before order banks open. That level of preparation keeps fleets efficient, budgets predictable, and businesses focused on growth.
“In fleet management, the more proactive you can be, the better. You almost can’t plan far enough ahead.”
Ready to Make Fleet Management Easier?
Whether your fleet has 20 vehicles, or 200, or beyond, Motorlease helps you operate with confidence by offering predictable costs, personal service, and proactive support that keeps your business moving.
If you’re ready to simplify your fleet operations, get in touch with our team to start the conversation and see how we can help.
Motorlease Fleet Management & Leasing Solutions