Effect of Fleet Vehicle Tracking on Operational Performance of Road Transporters in Mombasa County

Abstract

This study examines the effect of vehicle tracking on the operational performance of road transporters in Mombasa County. Effective fleet management, and specifically vehicle tracking, is essential for optimizing resources, reducing costs, and improving efficiency in transportation operations. Guided by the Technology Diffusion Theory, the study employs a descriptive research design and targets 250 registered road transport companies in Mombasa County, selecting a sample of 154 participants through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed with descriptive and regression techniques. The findings indicate that vehicle tracking significantly enhances operational performance, evidenced by a positive unstandardized coefficient of 0.459 and a p-value of 0.000. Key practices, including speed monitoring, route management, and real-time vehicle dispatch tracking, were identified as crucial contributors to this improved performance. The study concludes that vehicle tracking systems foster accountability, decrease fuel consumption, and boost overall productivity. Recommendations include the implementation of advanced GPS tracking technology, regular maintenance of tracking systems, and comprehensive staff training to maximize the benefits of vehicle tracking for operational efficiency. This research enhances the understanding of how technology can be utilized to tackle challenges in fleet management, particularly in developing regions.