Fleet fuel cards are a practical — and necessary — solution for many truck drivers. After all, many owner operators spend up to $70,000 annually on fuel alone. Businesses do the same but at a grander scale. So whether you’re a single truck small business operator or manage a large fleet, the best fleet gas card companies can help you save money while tracking your expenses easily and efficiently.
Below you’ll find fuel card options that have benefits like no fees, discounts, incentives, and other perks that can help you operate your trucking business. And when you’re finished reading, check out some of the other articles in our ‘Fuel card fleet management’ series:
- Take control of fleet management with customized reporting
- How fleet fuel cards speed up business reporting
- What are the best fleet fuel card companies?
- How to apply for a fuel card
Quicklook: 7 best fleet fuel card companies
- Best for rewards: Fuelman
- Best for fuel savings and fraud prevention: AtoB
- Best for national networks: WEX
- Best for ease of use: Coast
- Best for large fleets: BP -Match Now
- Best for flexible payments: ExxonMobil -Match Now
- Best for small businesses: Shell -Match Now
How does a fleet fuel card work?
A fleet fuel card works by providing a centralized payment and tracking system specifically for fuel and vehicle-related expenses. Here’s how it operates:
- Issuance: Fleet managers issue fuel cards to drivers, each card often tied to a specific vehicle or driver.
- Purchasing fuel: Drivers use the card at participating fuel stations. The card might also cover maintenance and other vehicle expenses.
- Spending controls: Managers can set limits on spending, types of purchases, and locations where the card can be used, minimizing unauthorized expenses.
- Reporting and tracking: Fleet fuel cards capture detailed information like gallons purchased, fuel type, price per gallon, and location. This aids in tracking and analysis.
- Integration with software: Many cards integrate with fleet management or accounting software, simplifying reconciliation and expense management.
- Discounts and rewards: Some cards offer discounts or reward programs at specific vendors, lowering overall fuel costs.
- Billing: The fleet receives a consolidated bill for all card expenses, streamlining payment and accounting procedures.
- Tax compliance: Fuel cards can assist with compliance with tax regulations such as IFTA, by automatically recording necessary data.
- Fraud prevention: Security features can be implemented, such as PIN requirements or alerts for suspicious activity, protecting against fraud.
Example of a diesel fuel card in action
As a hypothetical example, let’s say you work for a delivery company called ‘Speedy Deliveries.’ As a company driver, you get a card from one of the fleet fuel companies on this list. When your fuel tank runs low, you can pull into any gas station that accepts the provided company fuel card.
You’ll swipe or insert the card at the pump, and then enter your vehicle’s mileage or some other identification information before fueling up. The fuel card is essentially a payment method linked to your company’s account, so you don’t have to pay for fuel out of your own pocket.
Once you finish, the transaction is automatically recorded and billed to your employer. Some programs also allow users to pay for other vehicle expenses, like maintenance or minor repairs, with fleet cards.
Fleet managers are able to centrally review and approve any expenses charged to the fleet fuel cards. This web-accessible billing system makes it easier for companies to track and manage operating costs while offering driver convenience. The best programs may offer additional features like purchase controls, fraud protection, and detailed reporting to help companies monitor and optimize overall fleet fuel consumption and costs.
Best fleet fuel card companies
You have options when looking for fleet card companies. Discounts and incentives are appealing, but you need to pay attention to in-network stations and pricing of fuel card programs as well.
Some of the best fleet fuel cards offer impressive discounts, but their in-network stations and truck stops may not be in your region. That’s why it’s important to keep all of the details in mind.
Knowing what to look for in a fleet fuel card is beneficial. Discover which one will work best for you in our top six fleet fuel card comparison.
Fuelman
Fuelman cards come packed with features. Their customizable dashboards and data visualizations, for example, will help streamline your accounting operations. Real time monitoring and alerts can keep your account secure, even when you don’t have time to check in yourself. They offer several card options for varying price points, meaning you’re sure to find one works well for your business. With generous rewards for each card type, it’s hard to lose when you sign up with one of Fuelman’s diesel fuel fleet cards.
Best for: Rewards
Fees:
- $59 a month for all the fuel cards your business
- Review which card type suits your business best here.
Rewards: Rewards will vary based on the card type. Discounts up to $0.10 per gallon for the Simple Saver card are available at select locations, with up to $0.08 of savings per gallon on diesel with the Deep Saver card at in-network stations.
Special features:
- Flexible packages with the deepest rebates available
- 50,000 fuel stations
- 20,000 maintenance locations
- Option for Mastercard that works anywhere that accepts Mastercard
Benefits:
- Up to $0.10 per gallon in rebates
- Option to use it at any gas station
- Environmentally-friendly and carbon neutral options
Disadvantages:
- Coverage gaps in parts of Minnesota, Massachusetts, New Mexico and Montana
- Higher monthly fees than most other cards
- Mobile app does not always have accurate gas station locations
AtoB
AtoB fleet fuel cards are accepted anywhere and come with software that saves fleets on average 43¢ per gallon. The company has a simple fee structure of $3 per month per active card — and that’s it, no other hidden fees. Their user-friendly platform comes with features that allow you to track your usage live, set spending limits, prevent card misuse, and more, all within your dashboard. The AtoB fleet fuel card can even be utilized for vehicle maintenance, insurance, and tolls. AtoB also has a diverse network of partners to give AtoB customers discounts on tires, vehicle washes, maintenance, and more.
Best for: Fuel savings and fraud prevention
Fees: $3 per month
Rewards: Competitive discounts on fuel and non-fuel purchases
Special features:
- Discounts at Discount Tires, Pep Boys and more
- Optimal Station Selection within the AtoB Driver App to ensure drivers get the best prices for fuel every time
Benefits:
- No hidden fees
- Accepted everywhere
- No out-of-network stations
- Easy-to-use dashboard
- Transactions via QuickBooks for easy accounting
- Full control over each card
- Spending limits per day, per week and per transaction
- Helps small businesses build credit
Disadvantages: Net-seven terms
WEX
Known for its expansive national coverage, WEX offers one of the best fleet cards accepted at 95% of fuel stations in the U.S. Automatic accounting features, like fuel expense tracking and purchase alerts, optimize efficiency. With custom reports and multiple forms of account access, streamlining your operations is always a breeze with WEX. The company offers several different fleet card solutions, making it easy to get one that suits your business needs.
Best for: National networks
Fees:
- No setup fees
- Fees for other services not shared publicly
Rewards: Rebate of three cents per gallon
Special features:
- Robust reporting on fuel spending
- Mobile payments
Benefits:
- Accepted at every major U.S. fuel station and more than 45,000 service locations
- Ease of payment
- Control of spending
- Great app for drivers
- Specialized cards for different fleet sizes
Disadvantages:
- Not the best rebate option available for savings
- Unknown fees for certain cards
Coast
The Coast Fuel Card offers an innovative and user-friendly solution for fleet management. Designed with transparency and simplicity in mind, Coast eliminates hidden fees and complicated pricing structures, giving fleet managers total control over fuel expenses. The intuitive online platform allows real-time tracking, budgeting, and control of fuel spend. Coast cards work at any gas station that accepts Visa, making it one of the most flexible options for fleets. Plus, with no setup fees and a straightforward flat monthly rate, this card is perfect for businesses looking for an efficient, stress-free fuel management tool.
Best for: Ease of use
Fees: $4 per active card per month
Rewards: Coast focuses on clear savings rather than complex rewards programs, helping fleets save through streamlined expense management and control.
Special features
- Universal rebate of $0.01 per gallon
- $0.04-.10 off per gallon on your statement at 30,000+ partner stations nationwide, including Exxon, Mobil, 7-Eleven, Casey’s, Circle-K, and others
- Rewards on non-fuel purchases
- Easy controls and security settings for all fleet cards and users
- Spending reports
Benefits
- Centralized fleet spending on one account
- No personal guarantee
- Efficient customer service
- Purchase and expense tracking
Disadvantages:
- Does not offer traditional rewards or rebates per gallon
- Fewer perks for businesses looking for high-reward programs
BP Fleet Fuel Cards
Ideal for larger fleets, the BP fleet fuel card offers a lengthy list of appealing features. The $10 monthly card fee is waived when purchasing a minimum of 5,000 gallons each month. They boast trusted security features and offer a user-friendly dashboard that allows for easy account maintenance. Customize your reports for your business and stay on track with what you need.
Best for: Large fleets
Fees:
- $10 per month per card
- Fees waived after you buy 5,000 gallons of fuel per month
- $2 transaction fee when buying fuel from any station that is not Amoco or BP
Rewards: You can see rebates of up to seven cents per gallon, but the actual rebate amounts will vary depending on how much gas you purchase.
Special features:
- Flexible payment schedule
- Excellent coverage in the eastern U.S.
- Option for a Mastercard that covers maintenance service and fuel
Benefits:
- No fees for large fleets that use 5,000 gallons of fuel or more per month
- Large rebates in the first 3 months of card use
Disadvantages:
- Not the best fuel card for small fleet operators
- No BP or Amoco coverage in 14 states across the Midwest and Western U.S.
- $2 fees when buying fuel from stations that aren’t BP or Amoco
- No app with location tracking for drivers
ExxonMobil
The flexible payment options offered with ExxonMobil’s fuel card make it a competitive option. If a revolving balance or the ability to carry a balance appeals to you, then this card could be the ideal choice. They may not have the largest network, but they do offer an extended network coverage solution that can cover your region. Issued by WEX, one of the other fleet fuel card companies on our list, ExxonMobil’s card offers many features that will improve your bottom line.
Best for: Flexible payments
Fees:
- No monthly fees to use the card at Exxon or Mobil stations
- $40 setup fee
- $2 per month per card
Rewards: $0.06 at Exxon and Mobil stations
Special features:
- Customizability based on needs and fleet size
- Uses WEX app and network
- Flexible payment options
Benefits:
- No monthly fees or membership if using Exxon and Mobil stations
- Larger rebates with Exxon Mobil Rewards+
- Small fleet customizability
Disadvantages:
- Scalability issues when growing fleets
- Additional fees to carry a balance
- Lacks extensive coverage on the West Coast
- Only one card option
Shell
With no monthly or annual fees, Shell offers various card types ensuring you’ll find one that meets your businesses’ requirements. Their card is accepted at 14,000+ stations nationwide leaving you with great coverage. 24/7 U.S.-based customer service gives you the assistance you need. From small businesses to massive fleets, they have a card with features you’ll appreciate.
Best for: Small businesses
Fees: No fees
Rewards: $0.06 per gallon at Shell stations, plus Jiffy Lube discounts
Special features:
- More than 14,000 Shell locations across the U.S.
- No monthly fees
Benefits:
- One of the best small fleet fuel card options
- Monitoring features, and online account management
- Itemized purchases on card statements
Disadvantages:
- No coverage in Montana
- Coverage gaps in the Midwest, Southwest and Mountain states
What to consider with fleet fuel cards
Streamlining your fleet’s operation, no matter its size can easily be done when you have the right fuel card companies supporting you. Knowing which features will really impact your fleet is imperative, seeing as they can vary quite a bit. Read all terms and conditions carefully, and research fleet fuel card reviews before making a final decision.
Security features
Many of the best fleet fuel cards will offer real-time monitoring while sending you alerts that help you avoid fraudulent activity on your accounts. Limited-use fuel cards can help you ensure that your card is used for what it is meant for and nothing else. The security measures on these cards make them safer to use than cash or regular credit cards.
Customer service
While no one ever wants to experience any issues, it’s possible that you will need help at some point. That’s why you will want to choose a card with great customer service that can support you every step of the way. Fleet fuel card companies that offer 24/7 customer service are ideal, especially because drivers might have to drive at odd hours of the day.
Fuel usage tracking
Fuel expense tracking is a main feature of many fuel cards because it allows you to make sure you are staying on track with your budget. This can greatly minimize the number of hours you spend on accounting-related matters. Efficiently run your operations and avoid fuel waste where you can.
Level of control
Staying in control of your fuel cards shouldn’t be a hassle. The best fleet fuel cards will allow you to set spending limits based on certain employees and specific cards. Some cards will also offer a driver pin authorization or driver ID and odometer reading for each purchase, which is a measure designed to prevent misuse.
Mobile accessibility
Mobile apps can allow you to see real-time data regarding expenses, access detailed fuel data and adjust controls from anywhere. Top fleet fuel card companies offer user-friendly mobile apps, giving you the access you need from any location.
Reporting
Administrative tasks including account tracking, financial reports and controls are basic features that fuel cards should offer. From managing expenses to controlling charges on individual cards, the best fleet fuel cards include excellent account tracking solutions.
Benefits of a fleet fuel card
Fleet fuel card companies offer numerous benefits that can significantly improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of managing a fleet of vehicles. These key advantages include:
- Convenience for drivers, eliminating the need to carry cash or search for ATMs and simplifying the refueling process
- Fuel and vehicle maintenance discounts, which help reduce overall operating costs
- More security compared to cash or general credit cards, thanks to advanced safety features that prevent unauthorized usage
- Control over business expenses through real-time tracking and customizable spending limits, ensuring that every transaction aligns with the your budget and policies
- Streamlined expense reporting, which reduces the time spent on administrative tasks and enables faster fuel expenditure reconciliation
- Flexible fueling and subscription options that can be tailored to the specific needs of your fleet, providing greater control and adaptability
- Cash back on cardholder purchases for additional savings that can be reinvested into the business
Overall, fleet fuel card companies offer invaluable tools for optimizing fleet management and achieving substantial cost savings.
Save on fuel with one of these fuel card companies
Being on the road is expensive, especially when it comes to fueling your vehicles. Thankfully, top fuel card companies like those on this list can help fleets of all sizes yield savings when and where they need it most.
With impressive discounts and trusted security features, the right fleet fuel card can help you spend wisely and securely when you are on the road. These fuel cards can save you money and minimize hassles while helping you optimize your account management services.
Compare available fleet fuel cards and read fleet card reviews to see which one can help you maximize savings and strengthen security today.
FAQ
The best fleet fuel card for truckers will depend on several factors, like the size of your fleet, the coverage you require, the discounts you desire and so much more. Fuelman, AtoB, Coast, and WEX Fleet Fuel Cards are highly recommended options worth considering.
While fleet cards don’t directly report payment history to business credit bureaus like personal credit cards do, they still encourage business finance best practices that support creditworthiness. The organizational benefits can lead to better commercial credit capacity over time.
Fleet cards can be worth it for companies with multiple vehicles. They provide centralized billing, access to preferred fuel rates and maintenance vendors, and typically deliver significant cost savings versus reimbursing employees for their expenses. Additionally, fleet fuel cards offer enhanced control over expenses, allowing managers to set spending limits and monitor transactions in real-time.