A Guide to Fleet Fuel Cards

If your business relies on fuel, there has never been a more critical time to make every penny count. Fleet fuel cards are not like your typical gas cards. Unlike a gas card, a fleet card gives fleet managers complete control over their company’s fuel, maintenance, and road-related expenses. Using fleet fuel cards allows a business to purchase fuel and maintenance within a network of authorized merchants. Fleet managers can control spending, eliminate unauthorized purchases, and enjoy convenience while saving money. There are several benefits to purchasing fleet fuel cards, but they will vary according to the needs of your business.

Before selecting a fleet fuel card vendor, you should consider:

1. How fleet cards will save your business time and money.
2. What services fleet fuel card vendors offer.
3. How the size of your fleet, the vehicles in your fleet, and the type of fuel purchased will determine the rates on the cards.
4. Whether your fleet fuel card vendor offers any reward programs.

How Fleet Fuel Cards Save Time/Money

Fleet fuel cards keep both employer and employee free from suspicion. A fleet card records all transactions, eliminating the need for drivers to provide fuel receipts. This feature also discourages employees from using the card for their personal use because all charges can be investigated. If a fleet card is stolen, it can be disabled immediately and replaced so the business can continue without interruption. Most importantly, the fleet manager can place restrictions on the cards. They can limit how much fuel is being purchased. Managers can also control what days of the week the card works, so that if no business is being conducted over the weekends, then the card will cease to function. Some fleet fuel cards even allow managers to create multiple profiles to fit different vehicles and drivers. With the power in your hands, you can prevent unauthorized spending and encourage better fuel efficiency.

How Your Fleet Fuel Cards Program is Determined

The type of fleet fuel card your business uses is determined by the fuel products your fleet requires, the size of your fleet, and how often your fleet travels. Each fleet fuel card program is designed to meet the needs of your fleet. No matter where your fleet goes, they will be able to take care of any and all fuel and maintenance needs along the way. For example, a typical fleet fuel card will provide your business with the convenience of over 50,000 fuel and maintenance locations nationwide.

Get More Out of Your Mileage

Keep an eye out for fleet fuel cards that offer points towards rewards or high volume discounts. If your fleet fuel card vendor does not offer a rewards program, chances are they will offer you volume discounts based on the card type. For example, you might receive savings of up to $0.08 per gallon. Every cent counts when it comes to fuel, especially if your fleet travels on a statewide, regional, or national level.