With fuel prices fluctuating, companies with vehicle fleets and truckers are looking for ways to minimize fuel costs.
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Smart fuel card usage along with other savings tactics can help stretch every dollar at the pump. This article explores effective fuel savings strategies for corporations and truck drivers.
Leveraging Fuel Card Rewards and Loyalty Programs
One of the most effective ways businesses with fleets can save on fuel is through fuel cards that offer generous rewards programs. The more their drivers fuel up, the more points or cashback the company earns. These can add up to significant savings over time. Certain cards also give price discounts per gallon at select gas stations – amplified savings if drivers fuel up at these locations.
For individual truckers, loyalty programs at preferred gas stations can lead to discounts. Rewards are earned on non-fuel purchases that translate into cents off per gallon. Truck stops also offer fuel discount clubs that provide a low membership fee in exchange for fuel savings per fill up. Joining such programs can quickly pay for itself in savings.
Using Fuel Discounts and Coupons
Savvy companies instruct their drivers to be on the lookout for fuel discounts and coupons. Gas station apps provide alerts on discounted gas prices at nearby locations. Drivers can fill up when fuel is discounted, saving the company 5-10 cents per gallon.
Truckers can also benefit from apps providing real-time gas price data at truck stops and travel centers nationwide. Planning fill ups around discounted prices and utilizing paper or mobile coupons add up for major savings for truck drivers.
Paying at the Pump vs. Prepaying Inside
Paying at the fuel pump itself rather than prepaying inside often results in a lower price per gallon. The difference can be anywhere from 5-20 cents in savings. Companies with fleet vehicles require drivers to pay at the pump whenever possible to maximize savings.
Some truck stops offer a cash price that is less than the credit price per gallon. Truckers carrying cash can save on each fill up by paying at the pump rather than prepaying with a credit card inside.
Using National Account Pricing
Large companies with fleet vehicles can benefit from national account fuel pricing through fuel card programs. This provides a fixed discounted price per gallon at gas stations nationwide. It enables companies to lock in fuel savings as prices fluctuate, leading to steadier budgets.
While individual truckers won’t have access to national account pricing, smaller fleet owners can inquire with fuel card companies about discounted bulk fuel rates. This can provide some protection against fuel price volatility.
Monitoring MPG and Planning Efficient Routes
By tracking every vehicle’s miles per gallon (MPG), fleet managers can identify less fuel-efficient vehicles and have them serviced. Keeping vehicles well-maintained maximizes MPG and fuel savings. Route optimization also ensures vehicles take the most fuel-efficient routes between jobs. Truckers should track their MPG performance and have their rigs regularly serviced for optimal efficiency. GPS and route planning devices help truckers map out the most fuel-efficient routes across long hauls.
Practicing Fuel-Efficient Driving Habits
Company fleet drivers should be trained in fuel-saving driving techniques like smooth accelerating and braking, maintaining optimal speeds, and avoiding excessive idling. Adhering to such practices improves MPG performance for big savings over time. Avoiding aggressive jackrabbit driving saves truckers significantly in fuel expenses. Coasting to decelerate instead of continuous braking also boosts MPG.
Using Apps to Find the Lowest Prices
Real-time gas price apps like GasBuddy allow drivers to locate the cheapest gas prices in any area. This allows companies and truckers alike to strategically plan fill-ups around discounted rates nearby, saving money at every stop. Apps like TruckMap and Uber Freight show truck stops with the lowest diesel prices. Truckers can plan their route to fuel up at the most cost-effective truck stops and travel centers.
Considering Alternative Fuel Options
Some companies are switching fleet vehicles over to compressed natural gas (CNG) or electric engines for substantial long-term savings. Though the upfront vehicle costs are higher, not relying solely on gasoline or diesel leads to lower ongoing fuel expenses. Truckers concerned about volatile diesel prices may want to look into natural gas powered tractors. While limited infrastructure remains a challenge, the technology is improving and provides a greener, often cheaper alternative.
Pooling Resources to Increase Buying Power
Smaller fleets can partner to establish fuel-purchasing cooperatives, combining their buying power for discounted bulk fuel rates. This amplifies their savings compared to purchasing as individual entities. Some trucker associations advocate for their members by negotiating lower diesel fuel prices with major travel centers and truck stops. Belonging to such groups can score discounts for member truckers.
Conclusion
With fuel costs a major expense for fleet businesses and truckers, leveraging fuel card benefits, discounts, smart driving techniques, and price-comparison apps provides significant savings. Being strategic with every fill up is key to maximizing fuel efficiency and budgets on the road. Consistent savings directly impact bottom lines.