7 Ways Fuel Cards Help Truck Drivers Save on Long Hauls

Running a small or medium trucking business is a tough gig. You’re juggling rising fuel costs, lost receipts, and the constant pressure to keep your trucks moving and your books tidy. Every dollar and every minute matters, especially when margins are tight and competition is fierce. If you’re tired of watching your profits slip away at the pump or drowning in paperwork, it might be time to look at fuel cards as a simple, smart solution. Here are seven practical ways fuel cards can help you save money, control spending, and keep your business running smoothly.

1. Save on Every Litre (No Bulk Buying Needed)

Imagine never having to chase the lowest fuel price. With the right fuel card, you can get automatic discounts every time you fill up. Shell Card gives you 2 cents off every litre of regular petrol and diesel, and sometimes up to 6 cents off during promo periods. Meanwhile, FleetCard offers 4 cents off per litre at 7-Eleven and Ampol, and a handy 6 cents off at Shell stations.

It’s simple: the more you drive, the more you save. If your trucks use 1,000 litres a month, that’s $20–$60 saved every month. Over a year, that’s $240–$720 back in your pocket.

2. More Places to Fill Up, Less Time Wasted

There’s nothing more frustrating than driving out of your way just to find a fuel station that takes your card. FleetCard is accepted at over 6,200 sites across Australia, including Shell, BP, Caltex, Ampol, United, and more. Shell Card works at 1,500+ Shell, Coles Express, Liberty, and Westside stations. That means your drivers can stick to their routes, avoid unnecessary detours, and get back on the road faster. Less time spent searching for fuel means more time delivering for your customers – and less money wasted on extra kilometres.

3. All Your Fuel Spending, Sorted in One Place

If you’re still chasing drivers for receipts or sorting through piles of paperwork at tax time, you know how much of a headache admin can be. Fuel cards capture every transaction on one easy-to-read statement, making it simple to see where your money’s going. Most fuel cards give you ATO-compliant invoices, perfect for handing straight to your accountant or plugging right into your accounting software. No more lost receipts, no more late nights with spreadsheets – just clear, simple records that help you stay on top of your business.

4. Control Spending and Keep Your Money Safe

Worried about overspending or misuse? With fuel cards, you can set limits on what each card can buy – fuel only, or extras like oil and car washes. Assign cards to specific drivers or vehicles, and get alerts if anything looks off. Most fuel cards let you customise spend limits, set driver controls, receive real-time alerts and built-in fraud protection. It’s peace of mind knowing your business’s money is being spent where it should be, and not a cent more.

5. Earn Rewards and Extra Value for Your Business

Who doesn’t love a little extra? Some fuel cards give you rewards on top of your fuel savings. Shell Card lets you earn Flybuys points on every litre, which you can use for groceries, business supplies, or even a treat for yourself. FleetCard partners with service providers to offer discounts on tires, servicing, and more, helping you save on maintenance, not just fuel. It’s a simple way to stretch your budget further and get more out of every dollar you spend.

6. Discounts Beyond the Bowser

Fuel cards aren’t just about saving on fuel. FleetCard offers discounts at thousands of partner merchants, covering everything from repairs and servicing to tyres and windscreens. These extras can add up quickly, especially if you’re running a busy fleet. It’s about making sure every part of your operation is as cost-effective as possible.

7. Smarter Tracking for Smarter Business Decisions

Fuel cards come with online tools that show you exactly where your money is going. You can spot high-consumption routes, catch any odd spending, and plan your stops for the best savings. With features like real-time tracking and detailed reports, you can make smarter decisions, keep your fleet running efficiently, and avoid any nasty surprises at the end of the month.

How Much Can Your Business Save with a Fuel Card?

*Assumes 1,000 litres per month at $1.64L. Actual savings depend on fuel type, volume, and station. Card fee per month is assuming 3 cards. 

Where Can You Use Popular Truck Fuel Cards?

Why Fuel Cards Are a Smart Move for Truck Fleets

If you’re a small or medium business owner in trucking, you know how quickly fuel and admin costs can pile up. Fuel cards make it easy to save money, control spending, and cut down on paperwork. They offer real discounts and come with tools that make running your business simpler. It’s about spending less time worrying about fuel costs and more time focusing on what you do best – keeping your trucks moving and your customers happy.

Ready to take control of your fuel costs?

It takes just a few minutes to see which cards your business qualifies for and to discover the best fit for your fleet. With popular options for truck drivers like FleetCard and Shell Card, you can start saving on fuel, simplify your admin, and keep your business running smoothly, no matter how far you travel.

Check Your Fuel Card Eligibility

Wondering if you qualify for a fuel card? Use our Eligibility Checker to find out! Click below to determine your business's eligibility and take the first step towards streamlining your fuel expenses.

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*Fuel discounts and any fees listed are indicative only and subject to change. Actual savings often depend on factors such as business usage, monthly spend, card type, and provider terms. Always check with your chosen fuel card provider for the most up-to-date rates and eligibility criteria.