As a trucking company owner, fleet manager, or driver, one of the biggest expenses you face are fuel costs. Fortunately, there are discounts available to help truckers save money on fuel and other common operational expenses. This article highlights the top diesel fuel discount programs to help you identify the best fit for your specific needs.
Along the way, we’ll also explain what to consider in your decision and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s get started!
Quicklook: Best diesel fuel discount programs
- Best for rewards: Fuelman
- Best for building business credit: AtoB
- Best for national networks: WEX Fuel Cards
- Best for small fleets: Comdata -Match Now
- Best for fleet fueling purchases and financial controls: EFS -Match Now
- Best for in-network fuel discounts: FleetOne -Match Now
- Best for reliable, 24/7 support: TruckSmarter -Match Now
- Best for truck stop amenities: Pilot Flying J -Match Now
- Best transparent fee structure: TSD Open Roads -Match Now
What is a fuel discount program?
Trucking fleet managers and individual drivers enroll in fuel discount programs to reduce fuel costs and enjoy additional in-program discounts. Companies offering fuel discount programs are typically directly associated or have established business partnerships with regional or nationwide gas station chains. They may make money from annual, monthly or transactional fees, for instance, or interest charged on lines of credit. Some companies don’t charge fees, relying instead on a percentage of the volume discounts they negotiate on behalf of their customer base.
How does a diesel fuel discount program card work?
When you utilize your truck gas card at participating locations, you may receive rewards that include discounts, points and cash back, for instance. The best programs usually include customized reports, tax forms, alerts, and discounts at hotels and more. Some companies also offer prepaid fuel card options.
9 best fuel discount program options
Finding the best fuel discount program depends on your business and what you’re looking for. In this section, we’ll highlight the features, benefits, disadvantages and fee structure of each recommendation.
Fuelman
Best for: Rewards
Fuelman fuel cards come packed with features. The customizable dashboard and data visualizations make it effortless to ensure that this card will streamline your accounting operations. With several card options available at varying price points, you can find one works well for your business. Real-time monitoring and alerts can keep your account secure, even when you don’t have time to check in yourself. With generous rewards for each card type, it’s hard to lose when you sign up with one of Fuelman’s fuel fleet cards.
Special features:
- More than 60,000 stations nationwide
- Maintenance management and payment program
- Customizable dashboard and data reports
- Real-time fraud monitoring
- Fraud-loss coverage of up to $25,000 per year
Benefits:
- Eight-cent-per-gallon diesel rebate
- Five-cent-per-gallon unleaded rebate
- Two points per eligible gallon
- $100 annual loyalty bonus
Disadvantages: Coverage gaps in some states outside of the Midwest
Pricing: $39 for the Basic tier, $59 for the Pro tier, and $99 for the Enterprise tier
AtoB Unlimited
Best for: Building business credit
The AtoB Unlimited prepaid fuel card can help trucking companies save money on fuel and help build their business credit. The AtoB spend management system makes tracking digital receipts by card, location and driver level easy to create custom reports. This fuel card is also convenient for drivers since it is accepted at any fueling station that takes Visa.
Special features:
- Telematics integration
- Detailed transaction logs and reports
- Anti-fraud and security measures
- Accounting and IFTA support
Benefits:
- Secure card unlock
- 24/7 customer support
- Real-time notifications for suspicious transactions
- Quick and easy sign-up process
Disadvantages: Additional fee per card
Fees:
- $25 account set-up fee
- $3 monthly fee per active card
WEX Fuel Cards
Best for: National networks
Worried the nearby gas station won’t be part of the network? It’s a risk for any fleet card holder, but WEX Fleet Fuel Cards minimize this risk. The WEX fuel discount program has a 95% coverage rate which makes it a popular choice. WEX offers spending reports and an app that includes a station locator and options for mobile payments. The company offers card options for large fleets and small businesses.
Special features:
- Mobile payments through DriverDash
- Fuel spending reports generated by ClearView
- Employee spending controls
- Automatic fuel expense tracking
Benefits:
- Helpful driver app that integrates with digital wallets
- Specialized cards for various fleet sizes
- Ease of payment
Disadvantages:
- Unlisted fees for some services
- Lower rebates relative to some competitor offerings
Pricing: No setup or annual fees
Comdata Fuel Cards
Best for: Small fleets
Comdata Fuel Cards offer discounts and rebates on fuel purchases at thousands of gas stations across the U.S. Their truck fueling cards also offer access to a network of maintenance and repair service providers. Pricing options on these fuel cards for small businesses can vary depending on the size of your fleet. With customized solutions for small fleets, their program is among the best for new businesses.
Special features:
- Truck fuel card is accepted at more than 8,000 locations nationwide
- Savings up to 65% on tires and retreads at over 3,000 locations
- 24/7 driver support
- Online account management and fast track gas station membership
Benefits:
- Cash price plus additional $.25 off per gallon at TA Petro
- $.10 off per gallon at Pilot Flying J
- Up to $.08 off per gallon at Love’s, AMBEST, Speedway and 7-Eleven locations.
Disadvantages:
- Subject to a $8/card per month fee after a one-time $50 account setup fee
- Additional fees may apply for optional services, late payments, and/or credit risks
Pricing:
- No transaction fee for purchases at in-network locations
- $3 transaction fee for purchases at out-of-network locations
EFS Fuel Cards
Best for: Fleet fueling purchases and financial controls
The EFS fleet fuel discount program offers a range of fuel card features, including volume discounts and cashback rewards. If security’s your top concern, with an EFS account you can set purchase limits in real-time, down to the individual card level. These truck fuel cards also offer a mobile app for easy management and tracking of fuel purchases. Pricing varies depending on the services selected.
Special features:
- Seamless integration with leading third-party-software
- Real-time online account reconciliation
- Cash advances and ATM access/withdrawal
Benefits:
- Accepted at 12,000+ truck stops across North America
- Many add-on solutions, like online permit order submissions and access to trend analysis
- Easy, instant access to pay or settlement funds
Disadvantages:
- Transaction fees out of network
- Better for larger fleets
Pricing:
- No transaction fees or card fees within the WEX EDGE network
- No setup fees or monthly charges
Fleet One Fuel Cards
Best for: In-network fuel discounts
One of the best gas discount programs, Fleet One Fuel Cards offer discounts at more than 4,000 U.S. gas stations. They also offer flexible payment options, prepaid fuel cards and reporting on fuel usage. Pricing options vary depending on the size of your fleet.
Special features:
- Save thousands per year on fuel discounts alone
- Savings on repair and maintenance services at TA Truck Service locations
- Part of the WEX edge savings network
Benefits:
- Discounts on major tire brands
- Savings on mobile phone plans, maintenance, hotels and more
Disadvantages:
- Each card has a unique fee structure, with individual monthly fees and charges
- Can be costly if you have a large fleet of drivers
Pricing:
- No setup fees
- No fuel transaction fees at participating EDGE network locations
TruckSmarter
Best for: Reliable, 24/7 support
TruckSmarter’s customer service is available around the clock, offering assistance for any fuel-related issues, from payment troubleshooting to finding the nearest discounted station. This dedicated support ensures that drivers can rely on TruckSmarter at any time, especially when they’re on tight schedules.
Special features:
- Easy-to-use
- Up to $1.50/gal savings, average 50¢/gal savings
- No fuel card needed
- No transaction fees
Benefits:
- Interactive fuel finder map to find fuel savings along your route
- Itemized fuel statements for IFTA reporting
- Driver support from U.S.-based support team
- Additional fuel savings for factoring customers
- Access to load board for free
Disadvantages: When you reserve a code, you will see a temporary pre-authorization charge. This charge will be applied toward the total fuel purchase or be removed if code is unused.
Pricing: No transaction fees, no hidden fees
Pilot Flying J
Best for: Truck stop amenities
The Pilot fuel discount program is one of the most extensive offerings available, with high savings and exclusive perks available at Pilot and Flying J travel centers. Designed with convenience in mind, it’s best suited for fleets looking to optimize costs at major truck stops while providing amenities for drivers on the road.
Special features:
- Accepted at 750+ Pilot and Flying J locations across the U.S. and Canada
- Mobile app for real-time fuel pricing and route planning
- Dedicated truck lanes and DEF at every diesel island
- Loyalty rewards program for additional savings on food and services
Benefits:
- Up to 15¢ off per gallon on diesel
- Discounts on showers, food, and convenience items
- Access to the myRewards Plus loyalty program for bonus points
- Real-time price and location updates through the app
Disadvantages:
- Limited to Pilot and Flying J locations for full discount benefits
- Limited IFTA support for multi-regional fleets
Pricing:
- No transaction fees within the Pilot and Flying J network
- No setup fee, with monthly fees depending on card usage
Open Roads
Best for: Transparent fee structure
The TSD Open Roads fuel discount program is specifically designed for the trucking industry, offering discounts at thousands of fuel locations across North America. With a transparent fee structure, detailed reporting, and an intuitive mobile app, the TSD program makes it easy for drivers and fleet managers to manage fuel expenses and track savings.
Special features:
- Accepted at over 12,000 fuel locations across North America
- Integrated mobile app for locating discount fuel stops
- Real-time tracking and reporting for IFTA compliance
- Spend limits and transaction controls at the card level
Benefits:
- Up to 50¢ off per gallon at participating locations
- Customized reporting by vehicle, driver, and region
- 24/7 customer support tailored to fleet needs
- Easy integration with existing fleet management software
Disadvantages:
- Limited network benefits outside of designated partners
- Higher fees may apply for out-of-network purchases
Pricing:
- $5 monthly fee per card
- No setup fees or transaction fees at participating locations
What to consider with fleet fuel discount programs
When choosing among fleet diesel fuel discount programs, there are many factors to take into account:
- Consider your fleet size and needs: Small fleets may benefit from programs with lower fees and simple features, while larger fleets may need more advanced features like real-time tracking and reporting.
- Compare pricing and fees: Be sure to compare the monthly fees, transaction fees, and any other charges associated with each program.
- Look for additional benefits: Some programs offer additional benefits, such as maintenance discounts, roadside assistance, or rewards programs.
- Check the network coverage: Ensure that the program’s network covers the areas where your drivers typically fuel up.
- Read the terms and conditions carefully: Pay attention to any restrictions or limitations on the discounts and rewards.
By carefully considering these factors, you can find a fuel discount program that will help you save money and improve your business’s bottom line.
Benefit from diesel fuel discounts
Overall, diesel fuel discount programs can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to research your options thoroughly. Read all terms and conditions carefully and understand how each program works. Consider the features of each card, the rewards and costs to find the best fit for your business needs.
FAQ
In many cases, they work like consumer credit card rewards programs. Read the terms and conditions of each program you’re considering to find out the specifics. Most companies that offer fuel discount programs have online application processes that can be completed on their websites.
The savings and the convenience of fuel cards make them worthwhile for truckers. Managing fuel use and spending can be effortless with the right fuel card.
For immediate savings at the pump, enroll in a fuel discount program. Gas can account for up to 21% of your overall trucking costs, so it’s important to have the best gas cards for your business to lower these expenses and keep more money in your company.
Fuelman, AtoB, and Wex are often considered top choices, offering diesel discount card options known for their extensive networks, total rewards, and advanced fuel controls. Ultimately the ‘best’ choice comes down to the size of your fleet, where you operate, and your specific requirements.
The best diesel fuel discount app comes down to your unique needs, but Mudflap is a popular choice. The Upside app is another excellent option, offering cash back on more than 100,000 gas stations, restaurants, groceries, and convenience stores nationwide.