As temperatures climb, fuel costs can quickly follow, especially for short haul fleets running frequent routes throughout the day. 

Hot weather impacts everything from engine performance to tire pressure, and without proper attention, it can lead to unnecessary fuel burn and maintenance issues. 

The good news? With a few smart strategies, logistics managers and fleet operators can improve fuel efficiency and keep operations running smoothly, even in the summer heat.

Why Summer Heat Hurts Fuel Economy

High temperatures affect fuel efficiency in more ways than one. Engines run hotter and may require more cooling power, which strains the system and burns more fuel. 

Drivers are also more likely to idle vehicles to maintain cabin comfort, especially in yards or loading areas with little shade. 

Additionally, improperly inflated tires—more common in extreme heat—can cause drag that reduces miles per gallon.

In short haul operations, where vehicles make multiple stops and operate in start-and-stop conditions, even small inefficiencies can add up fast. That's why fuel-conscious planning is critical during summer months.

Actionable Tips to Improve Fuel Efficiency

• Start with vehicle maintenance. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure—heat expands air and can lead to dangerous under-inflation if not monitored closely. Make sure engine cooling systems are in good shape, and don’t skip scheduled oil and filter changes, which help reduce strain in hotter conditions.
• Encourage drivers to reduce idling when possible. While it’s tempting to leave engines running for A/C, even a few minutes of unnecessary idle time per stop can cost thousands in fuel over the course of a summer. Consider installing auxiliary cooling systems or recommending windows-down parking in secure areas.
• Route optimization is another game-changer. Use real-time traffic and yard data to plan smarter, more fuel-efficient trips. This minimizes wait times, reduces backtracking, and helps shorten total drive time, especially valuable when summer traffic and construction delays can stretch miles into hours.

Smarter Fleets Run Cooler (and Cheaper)

Hot weather doesn’t have to mean higher fuel bills. With proactive maintenance, driver awareness, and route efficiency, short haul fleets can stay lean on fuel, even during the busiest summer months.

Looking to improve your fleet’s performance this season? Connect with US 1 ShortHaul to learn how we support smarter, more efficient logistics from the yard to the final mile.

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