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When encountering the word \u201cfleet,\u201d you may picture a parking lot full of eighteen-wheeled semi-trucks, a hangar filled with airplanes, or an armada of ships at port. Historically, the word has big connotations\u2014it brings to mind large transportation machines, and lots of them.<\/p>\n

Semantically, the definition of a fleet offers a slightly different perspective. Merriam-Webster<\/u><\/a> defines a fleet as \u201ca group of ships or vehicles that move or work together or that are controlled or owned by one company.\u201d<\/p>\n

Today, the changing definition of the word means that \u201cfleet\u201d can refer to an international transportation company that owns thousands of big rigs and operates all over the world, or it can refer to a mom-and-pop gift shop that hand-delivers flowers and candies to local homes via two converted mini vans.<\/p>\n

Small fleets, despite the name, can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Here are a few examples of the many diverse types of non-traditional fleets that are on the road today.<\/p>\n

While many consumer services are based in brick-and-mortar stores and shops, a significant portion of these small businesses are mobile. With convenience as a primary selling point and a \u201cwe\u2019ll-come-to-you\u201d attitude towards customer service, these small businesses are on the road more often than not. And, if the company has more than one vehicle, it qualifies as a business fleet. A great example of this type of small business fleet is a maid service or cleaning business that offers their services to consumers in homes or at offices. Flower delivery and gift service businesses have the potential to operate as small fleets as well. Other examples include catering companies, roofing\/plumbing\/electrical\/home repair businesses, and restaurant or food delivery services.<\/p>\n