Fuel cards are a modern payment solution for today’s carriers, but their roots stretch back at least to the 1960s, when fuel stations used key locks to control pump access and track fuel consumption. By the 1980s, these systems evolved into payment options for fleets, laying the groundwork for the fuel cards we know today. 

Unlike many technologies from 40 years ago, fuel cards remain a cornerstone of the trucking industry. Yet, they’re often associated with large fleets operating hundreds or thousands of trucks. But here’s the reality: most trucking businesses are small carriers or owner-operators. 

So, how can these smaller operations tap into the same value and benefits fuel cards offer big players? In this article, we’ll explore how small trucking companies and owner-operators can leverage fuel cards to save money, enhance payment security, and simplify fleet management. 

What is a fuel card? 

A fuel card, also called a fleet card, is a payment tool designed specifically for the trucking and transportation industry. Unlike traditional credit or debit cards, fuel cards are tailored to meet the unique needs of fleets and drivers by offering features that go beyond just paying for diesel. 

Fuel cards can be used at a network or brand of fueling stations, often with built-in discounts for each gallon of fuel purchased. They also come equipped with tools to monitor and control spending, such as setting purchase limits or restricting non-fuel expenses. Many fuel cards offer real-time tracking, enabling fleet owners and drivers to manage transactions through mobile apps or online portals. 

What are the main benefits of a fuel card? 

For small trucking carriers and owner-operators, fuel cards offer a suite of benefits that can significantly improve daily operations and long-term profitability: 

• Savings on diesel: Most crucially, fuel cards often provide discounts at in-network stations. Some cards also offer rewards or rebates for consistent usage, allowing small fleets to save hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually on fuel costs. 
• Fraud protection: Fuel cards include robust security features like PIN requirements, spending limits, and restrictions on unauthorized purchases. These safeguards help mitigate the risk of fraud, which is a valuable part of a fuel card for small trucking businesses operating on tighter margins. 
• Minimal or no transaction fees: Unlike traditional credit cards, which often include processing fees or hidden charges, many fuel cards come with little to no transaction fees. This makes them a cost-effective alternative for managing fuel expenses. 
• Simplified fuel tax reporting: Fuel cards automatically log purchase details, including state, date, and tax information. This data simplifies the process of filing quarterly International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) reports, saving time and reducing the risk of errors. 
• Real-time account management: Modern fuel cards come with online dashboards and mobile apps that provide real-time access to spending data. Small trucking companies can monitor fuel usage, set alerts for unusual activity, and generate reports to maintain better control over their budgets. 

A fuel card solution for small carriers and owner-operators 

Fuel is a significant operating expense for small trucking carriers and owner-operators. Managing this expense effectively can make a big difference in fleet management and improve profitability. The Transflo Wallet® Fuel Card, powered by TCS, provides a practical solution tailored to the needs of smaller fleets and independent drivers. 

This fuel card offers an average savings of 48 cents per gallon* at thousands of in-network locations across the U.S., meaning smaller fleets have access to similar discounts as the largest carriers in the country. It also eliminates transaction fees at these stops, reducing costs even further. For carriers and owner-operators looking for flexibility, the card is accepted at more than 12,000 fuel stops nationwide, ensuring coverage across routes even when an in-network station is unavailable. 

Beyond savings, the Transflo Wallet Fuel Card helps streamline fuel management. Its features include enhanced fraud protection, easy fuel tax reporting, and real-time account management through a mobile app and online portal. With tools like the Fuel Finder, users can easily search for the best fuel prices, plan routes efficiently, and control fuel expenses more effectively. 

To explore whether the Transflo Wallet Fuel Card could benefit your operation, click here. To sign up immediately for the Wallet Fuel Card, please click here. 

*Average savings of 48 cents per gallon is based on actual in-network TCS client transactions for Q4 of 2024.