Running a restaurant is not smooth sailing. As a restaurateur, you have to take care of a lot of things—inventory, staff, marketing, customer service, and whatnot. Things get all the more challenging when you opt for in-house delivery instead of partnering with food delivery platforms. But that’s a wise decision, for it can improve your bottom line. 

The U.S. online food delivery market is anticipated to generate a revenue of $68.6 billion by 2032. The convenience of ordering meals online is driving the growth of the market. 

To get your slice of the cake, you need to manage your fleet of delivery drivers efficiently. In this article, we’ll share a few tips that will help you manage your fleet and ensure smooth operations.

#1. Offer Good Training

Those who order takeaway do not interact with the restaurant manager but food delivery drivers. Wouldn’t you want them to leave a positive impression on your customers? Thus, it makes sense to provide them with comprehensive training. 

Your training program must cover the basics of driving and delivery procedures. Teach drivers how to use GPS to navigate routes, delivery apps to manage orders, and handle unexpected issues like traffic or adverse weather conditions. Make sure they understand the importance of timely deliveries, as this directly affects customer satisfaction.

Customer service training is equally important, as drivers interact directly with customers. Train them to communicate politely with customers. Teach them problem-solving skills and how to handle complaints or issues professionally. 

Zippia’s recent survey has found that firms with comprehensive training programs achieve a 24% higher profit margin than those without. This is because well-trained employees are more efficient and productive. 

Employee training also increases employee retention. Data shows that 45% of workers are likely to stay at a firm for longer if it invests in their learning as well as development. 

#2. Use Technology to Your Advantage

Managing a fleet of delivery drivers is no easy task. Technology, however, can simplify it for you, so use it to your advantage. 

Invest in reliable fleet management software. You will be able to track deliveries in real-time, monitor driver locations, optimize routes, and ensure timely deliveries. Ultimately, this will reduce fuel costs as well as improve customer satisfaction.

GPS navigation systems are also important. They will help your drivers find the quickest and safest routes. GPS systems also provide drivers with turn-by-turn directions and updates on traffic conditions.

Equip each of your drivers with body-worn cameras as well. This might not appear important to you, but it is since the job of delivery drivers exposes them to various risks, such as accidents and injuries. 

The Uber Eats driver who landed in the hospital after being mauled by a fighting dog during food delivery is a case in point. This February, an Uber Eats driver was attacked by Gemma Louise Ward’s dog, a Pit Bull Terrier-type breed, while delivering her McDonald’s meal.  

Ward’s dog pounced at the delivery man and dug its teeth into his chin. This left the poor guy bloodied and severely injured. Ward is now in court dealing with the consequences of her pet’s horrific deed. 

Such incidents aren’t uncommon in the U.S. Arming your delivery drivers with a body-worn camera can help them prove liabilities or clarify events in case of disputes or accidents. These cameras can provide critical evidence in legal situations and also act as a deterrent against potential aggressors, knowing they are being recorded.

Another benefit of body-worn cameras, according to Vestige, is that they safeguard against false accusations. The recorded footage provides a credible and impartial account of encounters, which protects individuals and organizations against false allegations.

#3. Monitor Performance and Provide Feedback

Make it a point to monitor the performance of your drivers regularly. Key performance indicators such as delivery times, on-time delivery rates, and customer satisfaction ratings can help you assess driver performance. Hence, review those metrics regularly, for it will help you identify areas that need improvement.

You can also establish a system for gathering customer feedback through surveys or delivery app ratings. Reward drivers who receive positive reviews to reinforce good practices. On the other hand, if any of your delivery drivers receive negative ratings, address the issue promptly. 

Also, try maintaining open lines of communication with your drivers. Encourage them to share their concerns and suggestions and be receptive to their feedback. This will show that you value their input and are committed to continuous improvement for the benefit of both your drivers and your business.

Putting it all together, managing a fleet of delivery drivers might seem like a challenge, but it isn’t. These tips will help you streamline your daily operations. Consider implementing them. 

Other than that, you must prioritize vehicle maintenance, offer competitive compensation, and create a positive work environment. Ultimately, you will be able to create a reliable and efficient delivery service that delights your customers and supports the growth of your restaurant.