Today many companies struggle with the best method to keep their fleets “clean”. Economics is always the first test of this struggle. The majority of major corporations and governments that consistently budget for keeping their image “clean” usually lead their industries. The size and scope of these companies allow the most efficient and cutting edge technology to keep their fleet in the best shape as well as allow them to meet today’s stringent ecological requirements.

I was in Alberta recently with our early spring weather, driving the Queen Elizabeth II Highway between Calgary and Edmonton, roundtrip in two days. If you ever want to see what difference image can make, just drive around these cities, up and down the highway at this time of year. Wow…”clean” is WOW.

If you ever wonder if your image sticks out when you are “clean”, there is no more evidence than this route at this time of year. Vehicles are almost void of graphics, name and colour with all the dirt and stones on the highway. The “clean” vehicles really catch your eye. Imagine what your customers think?

Later that same week I was driving through the 401 from Toronto to Montreal and the same evidence was true. A “clean” vehicle stands out so much more as a company you want to do business with.

With technology available today, many operators are choosing to have control of their image with an ecological theme with the modern truck green movements. Why not couple this with a green, clean graphic of your logo or product mural on the side of your truck? Do you believe people want to do business with companies that work on that “clean”, green image? Most do, yet we don’t take the time to consider the competitive advantage you can have over your competition.

Consider adding to your profile a green, clean image when presenting your company to potential clients. Put in your portfolio how you are green all around, including washing your vehicles to maintain the best image when arriving at your customers doors to deliver. The ability to offer green certification of washing with the correct chemicals in the most efficient water usage can be offered when you do your research. Look for that green certification that you can control and you will take something to a client that your competition may not be thinking of to offer.

Most large corporations and government facilities wash their own vehicles, not leaving their image to some third party that shows up on weekends (maybe) to pressure wash the sides of their trucks since the back door is usually parked against a fence or building, it seems to be ignored. What chemicals are used and where do those chemicals end up in the sewers or ground in your parking lot? Does your competition offer a green package to their customers on sustainability procedures, including washing that can put them ahead of your company?

It’s time to think of ways to be better. Washing your own vehicles with the proper methods will put you in the league of the industry leaders that may be taking away the best clients in your industry.