
Ditch the Paper: Why Digital Vehicle Checks Are a Game-Changer
Posted by The My Fleet Simple Team on August 18th, 2025
For years, the paper-based vehicle check has been a staple of fleet management. It's familiar, sure, but is it effective? Let's be honest: paper is slow, prone to errors, and creates a mountain of administrative work. Chasing down missing sheets, storing them for compliance, and manually actioning defects is a time-sink that modern businesses can't afford.
The Problem with Paper
- Illegible Handwriting: A defect note you can't read is a defect you can't fix.
- Lost or Damaged Sheets: Paper gets wet, torn, or simply disappears, leaving gaps in your compliance records.
- Delayed Information: A critical VOR (Vehicle Off Road) defect might not be seen by a manager until the end of the day, putting your business and other road users at risk.
- No Real-Time Oversight: You have no idea if checks are even being completed until the driver returns to base.
The Digital Advantage with My Fleet Simple
Switching to a digital system like My Fleet Simple transforms your daily checks from a chore into a powerful, proactive safety tool.
Our Perform Check feature guides your drivers through a simple, step-by-step process on their phone or tablet.
- Guided Inspections: Drivers inspect each section of the vehicle, from the front to the interior. For each part, they must report the status: No Damage, Existing Damage, or New Damage.
- Mandatory Photos: A picture is worth a thousand words. Our app requires photos for each section, creating a clear visual record. If new damage is found, a specific photo of the specific damage is mandatory, eliminating any ambiguity.
- Instant Notifications: The moment a check is submitted with a VOR defect or new damage, managers are alerted via the main dashboard. You can act on critical issues in minutes, not hours.
- Full Audit Trail: Every check is automatically timestamped, geotagged, and stored securely. In the All Checks screen, you can instantly filter and find any check by vehicle, driver, date, or status. No more digging through filing cabinets!
By digitizing your checks, you're not just saving paper; you're saving time, reducing risk, and building a more professional, compliant operation.