Fuel cards have become an essential tool for HGV (heavy goods vehicle) drivers and fleet managers, offering a range of benefits that extend beyond mere convenience.
In an industry where cost control, operational efficiency, and streamlined reporting are critical, fuel cards provide solutions that can make a tangible difference. From cutting down on administrative tasks to offering real-time expense tracking and competitive fuel prices, fuel cards can help you save time and money.
This article explores the key benefits of fuel cards for HGV drivers to help you decide if they’re the right choice for your fleet.
What is a fuel card and how does it work for HGV drivers?
A fuel card is a payment method for fuel-related purchases. It operates similarly to a credit or debit card but without the interest fees, allowing drivers to refuel at participating locations.
For HGV drivers, fuel cards streamline the refuelling process and offer a range of advantages that address the common challenges associated with fuel costs. All transactions are displayed online, so you don’t need to keep hold of receipts which allows you to carefully monitor your fuel expenses.
Cost Savings and efficiency
- Lower fuel prices – Right Fuel Card offers competitive fixed weekly prices at major fuel brands such as BP, Shell, Esso, and supermarket petrol stations. This can save you money at the pump, helping your bottom line.
- VAT reclaim made simple – fuel cards simplify the process of VAT reclaim and reporting, as all invoices are HMRC-approved. This streamlines financial operations and ensures that you can maximise your reclaimable VAT, contributing to overall cost savings.
- Time savings - HGV drivers can save valuable time by using fuel cards. You can quickly pay for fuel without needing to carry cash or complete lengthy reimbursement forms. Time spent on administrative tasks is also reduced as the detailed reports help you to streamline fuel management.
Expense tracking and control
Our online account management system allows fleet managers to track spending in real-time, providing visibility into fuel expenses and enabling proactive management of budgets and resources.
HGV fleets can implement restrictions on purchases, so you can control where, how, and what your fuel card can be used for. This helps to prevent misuse and ensures your drivers do not overspend unexpectedly.
With our fleet cards, expenses are consolidated into a single invoice, simplifying the reconciliation process for your company. This reduces administrative burden and enhances financial reporting capabilities.
Security and fraud prevention
The security of cashless payments minimises theft risks, providing peace of mind for both drivers and fleet operators.
Fuel cards offer PIN protection, card-specific restrictions, and real-time alerts that reduce fraud risks and enhance security for drivers and fleet managers. In addition, with Right Fuel Card, you’re automatically entitled to fraud protection (to a maximum of £5000 per account).
Discover more security features of our fuel cards.
Convenience and accessibility across the UK
Fuel cards are widely accepted across the UK, with a network that includes major service stations, supermarket options and many third-party sites. This widespread acceptance ensures that HGV drivers can refuel without deviating from their routes, offering you convenience and accessibility.
Many participating petrol stations are HGV-friendly, so are specifically designed to accommodate larger vehicles. They offer facilities tailored for HGVs, such as high canopies, high-speed pumps, and wide lanes, making refuelling faster and easier for drivers.
Our handy site locator allows you to locate your nearest HGV-friendly stations along your route, preventing unnecessary detours and reducing downtime.
Sustainability benefits
With a fuel card, you can accurately track fuel consumption which is ideal for businesses that regularly travel long distances. This helps you identify areas in need of improvement, so your drivers can adopt more efficient driving habits, like hypermiling, that save fuel. This contributes to overall cost savings and environmental sustainability.
HGV drivers also have the option to track CO₂ emissions, enabling companies and drivers to monitor and reduce their environmental impact. This aligns with UK sustainability targets and demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Fuel cards offer various benefits for HGV drivers and fleet managers. From reduced fuel costs to widespread acceptance across UK petrol stations, the advantages are clear.
For those in the industry, exploring different fuel card options can lead to significant operational improvements and cost savings. Contact our team today to discuss your fleet card options or explore our fuel card guides to find out more.
