Managing Your RUC a Breeze in a Post-3G World

The ever-evolving digital world and transport industry can bring along some not-so-subtle surprises to fleet managers, who are already under immense pressure to ensure the safety and efficiency of their day-to-day operations. Policy changes can also catch fleets off guard, as seen with nearly 12,000 EV owners likely facing fines after missing the government’s 31 May deadline to purchase their first RUC license.

Amid RUC licences for heavy vehicles weighing over 3,500kg expiring one month after any rate increase and the current economic conditions, New Zealand businesses find it even more challenging to digitalise their fleets due to time, cost and value concerns.

With the 3G network shutdown looming and a switch to more reliable 4G technologies fast becoming the norm, fleet managers are beginning to realise that their ‘tried and tested’ systems no longer meet business demands. As a result, it can lead to increased running costs and decreased fleet efficiency. Upgrading your telematics system in your fleet to be compatible with the new 4G network not only ensures your fleet stays connected as technology advances, but also presents opportunities to leverage advanced telematics solutions.

Take eRUC as an example. Modern telematics, such as Teletrac Navman’s RUC Manager, an electronic Road User Chargers (eRUC) solution, can transform your fleet business in a post 3G-world. RUC Manager automates the task of managing road user charges, which can be complex and time-consuming. This NZTA-approved system even uses electronic distance recorders to monitor RUC licenses in real-time, making it ideal for various fleets, including EV and PHEV fleets. It streamlines the entire process with high-definition GPS data to calculate road activity for accurate and maximised RUC refunds.

Traditionally, processing RUC rebate forms for an entire fleet can take hours, but with RUC Manager, an entire fleet can be streamlined and processed in around 15 minutes. This not only decreases the time spent managing RUC and rebates but, most importantly, reduced costs and eliminates human error in the process.

Choosing an electronic RUC management system like RUC Manager can benefit you and your fleet.

Improve cashflow

Many businesses end up overpaying RUC each year and consequently miss out on reclaiming eligible funds. eRUC systems help address this by automatically preparing off-road rebate forms to ensure you get your rebates quickly. eRUC systems also help you purchase RUC licenses in amounts that suit each vehicle’s use, so you don’t run out and never have money sitting on unused licences.

The system’s electronic distance recorders ensure every kilometre is counted, and you receive your maximum off-road refund entitlement to maximise your cash flow.

Save time

There is no guesswork involved when using RUC Manager. Using high-definition telematics, the system calculates off-road distances using GPS positional records by the second to ensure precise measurements are kept.

Eliminate the need for paperwork and manual processing and step towards a paper-free and digital era. You can purchase RUC licences electronically and distribute them directly to each vehicle’s cab or trailer instantly through the system. You can also set up alerts for when licences are about to expire and automatically distribute a new RUC licence to your vehicles to ensure no one is on the road without a valid RUC licence.

Furthermore, eRUC systems will automatically prepare rebate forms, which you simply have to review all the completed details before they are submitted directly to the New Zealand Transport Agency in one easy, streamlined process.

Reduce paperwork and risk

eRUC systems that use high-definition second-by-second GPS data to calculate road activity are extremely accurate at tracking on- and off-road distances.

New RUC licences can be easily purchased and displayed via an electronic distance recorder (EDR), reducing the risk of fines for non-compliance or expired licences.

You never have to worry about audits again with the eRUC system taking precise measurements and keeping electronic records ready for auditing. The system also simplifies logbook entries for drivers with a driver-facing odometer.

RUC for heavy trailers

Teletrac Navman’s RUC Manager is the eRUC system for you whether your fleet has one or multiple types of vehicles. With independent eRUC licences, you can mix and match your trailers and prime movers without an issue.

The system is in a self-contained and sealed device that generates power directly from the wheel’s rotation. There are no wire and no interface with the trailer ABS, EBS or other system, and operators can easily self-install the trailer device.

 

Now is the time to make the smart choice and choose Teletrac Navman’s RUC Manager for the future of you and your fleet. Eliminate human error, save time and money while moving closer to a paper-free system that is reliable every step of the way with an eRUC system.