Running vehicles is one of the biggest costs for UK businesses. Whether you operate a single company vehicle or a fleet of HGVs, controlling fuel spend is critical. Fuel cards are one of the most effective ways to manage these costs, offering businesses better prices, easier admin, and more control over how fuel is purchased.
This complete guide to fuel cards explains what fuel cards are, how they work, the different types available, and the benefits they bring to UK businesses of all sizes.
Whether you’re new to fuel cards and are exploring them for the first time or looking to optimise your fleet management, Right Fuel Card is here to guide you. Trusted by over 25,000 UK businesses, our fuel and EV charge cards save you money, streamline operations, and enhance security.
Let’s dive in and discover how the right fuel card can transform fuel management for your business.
This guide was last updated in September 2025.
What is a fuel card, and how can it benefit my business?
A fuel card is a specialised payment solution that allows businesses to manage fuel and vehicle-related expenses with ease.
Unlike credit cards or cash, fuel cards are designed for fleet essentials, including diesel, petrol, EV charging, and services such as AdBlue, tolls, and car washes, offering interest-free purchases and consolidated invoicing (this means all the fuel spend for your business is paid via a single, easy invoice).
What’s more, unlike credit cards, fuel cards don’t charge you interest - we’ve written a guide on this very topic, ‘Fuel Cards Versus Credit Cards’. And, there’s no need to worry about manually managing individual driver expenses or chasing receipts!
Fuel cards are part of a specialist payment network that’s accepted at thousands of leading fuel station brands across the UK.
In fact, across our range of fuel cards, you’ll access 98% of UK fuel stations, so there’s no need to worry about cards not being accepted or lengthy detours finding a compatible forecourt.
Ultimately, fuel cards simplify payments for drivers and your business:
Fuel cards eliminate the need for drivers to pay with cash or credit cards.
They help save money versus the standard pump price.
They can restrict purchases just to fuel and are tied to a driver or vehicle.
If enabled, they allow drivers to purchase AdBlue, use car washes and pay tolls.
They compile all the fuel costs spent by a business into a single invoice.
A single fuel invoice means no individual driver receipts or expenses to manage.
Fuel cost invoices are paid automatically by Direct Debit with no interest added.
Businesses can report on fuel spend easily with online dashboard tools.
How fuel cards work:
Fuel cards work by replacing traditional payment methods like cash or credit cards with a system designed specifically for fuel and vehicle-related purchases. The process is straightforward for the driver and provides significant advantages for the business behind the scenes.
When a driver needs to refuel, they simply pull into a participating forecourt and fill up as usual. Instead of paying with their own money, petty cash, or a company credit card, they present the fuel card at the till or at the pump.
The card works in the same way as a debit or credit card, with transactions authorised by a PIN code for added security; they will also be asked for their vehicle registration number. From the driver’s perspective, this makes purchasing fuel quick, easy, and cashless.
Behind the scenes, every transaction is recorded and linked to the business account. Rather than collecting receipts from drivers, the company receives a single, itemised invoice. This invoice consolidates all fuel purchases across the fleet and includes VAT and is HMRC-approved.
Many fuel cards operate on a fixed weekly pricing model, where prices are set in advance and linked to wholesale fuel costs. This means that businesses can predict expenditure more accurately and often pay less than the standard pump price, saving money on every litre of fuel.
Other cards work on a pump-price basis, offering convenience and wide acceptance at supermarkets or local stations, which may be more suitable for smaller fleets. Regardless of the pricing model, all fuel cards benefit from the easy invoicing we’ve already covered.
For businesses operating mixed fleets that include electric vehicles (EVs), some fuel cards also extend to EV charging. This means drivers can use a single card for petrol, diesel, and electric charging, with all costs appearing on the same invoice. In this way, fuel cards are evolving into comprehensive energy management tools, supporting businesses as they transition towards more sustainable transport solutions.
In summary, here’s how fuel cards work:
A driver uses their fuel card in the same way they would use a credit card.
The price depends on the fuel card, either a discounted rate or the pump price.
Their transaction is recorded against your account, as are all other drivers.
All transactions are compiled into a single invoice for your business.
Your fuel invoice is paid by Direct Debit, with no interest added, for easy admin.
Business benefits:
Fuel cards offer far more than a convenient way for drivers to pay at the pump. For businesses, they represent a strategic tool that can deliver savings, improve efficiency, and provide greater control over one of the largest running costs in any fleet. Whether you manage a handful of vehicles or a large nationwide operation, fuel cards can transform how you handle fuel expenditure.
One of the most obvious benefits is fuel cost savings. Unlike paying standard pump prices, many fuel cards give access to fixed weekly rates that are linked to wholesale fuel costs. This can mean paying less per litre than what is advertised at the forecourt, and over time, these savings add up significantly across an entire fleet. Some businesses find they save thousands of pounds each year simply by switching to a fuel card. Even cards that operate on pump-price terms can provide indirect savings by offering access to a wide network of competitive stations, avoiding unnecessary detours, keeping drivers on the most efficient routes and saving the admin of managing receipts and expenses.
Another major advantage lies in administrative efficiency. Managing receipts from multiple drivers can be a slow and frustrating task for finance teams. Fuel cards eliminate this issue by consolidating every purchase into one clear, HMRC-approved invoice. This not only streamlines expense management but also makes reclaiming VAT far simpler. The time saved on paperwork means staff can focus on the things that matter most, rather than chasing receipts or reconciling expenses manually.
Fuel cards also provide greater control and visibility over spending. Every transaction is recorded and tied to a specific card, vehicle, or driver, allowing managers to see exactly how much fuel is being purchased, when, and where. This transparency helps to identify irregularities, reduce the risk of fuel fraud, and ensure that spending stays within company policies. Managers can set parameters such as restricting purchases to fuel only or setting limits. This level of control is impossible to achieve with cash or credit card payments.
For drivers, the benefits are equally clear. Using a fuel card is quick, easy, and cashless. There is no need to keep hold of paper receipts or spend time filing expenses after each journey. Instead, they can focus on keeping the business moving. And for businesses operating across the UK, access to extensive networks such as BP, Shell, Esso, Texaco or supermarket sites ensures that drivers can refuel wherever they are without wasting time searching for suitable stations.
As more fleets transition to electric or hybrid vehicles, the benefits of fuel cards extend even further. Many modern cards now cover both traditional fuel and EV charging, allowing businesses to manage all energy costs in one place. This simplifies the transition to greener fleets, offering the same convenience and visibility for electricity as they already provide for petrol and diesel.
Ultimately, the biggest benefit of fuel cards is that they bring together cost savings, operational efficiency, and financial control into a single solution. For businesses, this means reduced overheads, improved reporting, and less admin hassle.
For drivers, it means simplicity and convenience. Together, these advantages make fuel cards a practical and cost-effective choice for any organisation looking to run its vehicles more efficiently.
We’ve covered a lot in this section, so here’s our summary of the business benefits of using a fuel card:
Driver convenience with cashless, easy-to-use cards at stations across the UK.
Save money with access to wholesale-linked or competitive pump prices.
Simplify admin with one HMRC-approved invoice instead of multiple receipts.
Gain full visibility of fuel spend across drivers, vehicles, and locations.
Reduce fraud risk with purchase controls and custom spending limits.
Improve efficiency by cutting time spent on paperwork and refuelling detours.
Support the EV transition with cards that also cover EV charging.
Types of fuel cards in the UK
Not all fuel cards are the same. The UK market offers a wide variety of options designed to suit different business sizes, vehicle types, and driving patterns. Choosing the right card depends on where your vehicles refuel, the type of fuel they use, and the level of control you want over spending.
Below, we explore the main categories of fuel cards available to UK businesses and the advantages each one can bring.
Branded fuel cards
Branded fuel cards are tied to a specific fuel provider, such as BP, Shell, Esso, or Texaco. These cards allow drivers to refuel exclusively within the chosen brand’s network. For example, a Shell fuel card provides access to thousands of Shell forecourts, often with fixed weekly pricing that is linked to the wholesale market.
The main advantage of branded cards is their reliability and consistency. Businesses that already have established fuelling habits at particular networks can benefit from dedicated discounts and loyalty rewards. Drivers also know exactly where to stop, which helps reduce detours and wasted time. However, the trade-off is that branded cards are less flexible than multi-network fuel card options, which can be restrictive if your drivers cover unpredictable routes.
Multi-network fuel cards
Multi-network cards offer the broadest coverage across several fuel providers. Instead of being tied to a single brand, these cards work across major forecourts such as BP, Shell, Esso, Texaco, and supermarkets like Morrisons, Sainsbury’s or Tesco.
This flexibility makes multi-network cards especially valuable for businesses with fleets that operate nationwide or without predictable fuelling patterns. For example, a delivery company covering both urban and rural areas benefits from knowing that drivers will always find a participating station nearby and not having to worry about detours to find a compatible fuel station for their fuel card.
In addition to convenience, multi-network cards often provide competitive pump price rates, giving cost savings while retaining choice.
The wider acceptance of these cards also makes them a strong option for businesses that need to balance cost control with driver convenience. Examples of multi-network fuel cards include Keyfuels and UK Fuels.
Supermarket fuel cards
Supermarket fuel cards are designed for fleets that rely heavily on supermarket forecourts, such as Tesco, Morrisons, or Sainsbury’s. These cards are particularly attractive for small businesses or local fleets that refuel in towns and cities rather than on motorways.
The key advantage is cost. Supermarket fuel is often priced lower than traditional branded forecourts, and when combined with a fuel card, it provides consistent savings and transparent invoicing. For businesses with tight margins, this can make a noticeable difference.
Supermarket cards may not always offer the same additional features as branded or bunker fuel cards, such as access to high-speed pumps, specialist fuels or access to sites along the UK motorway network. They are, however, ideal for fleets that do most of their driving locally and want to take advantage of accessible, low-cost fuel that’s easily tracked with the pump price.
HGV and bunker fuel cards
Bunker cards are specifically designed for HGVs and large fleets with high fuel consumption. They provide access to bunker sites across the UK, which are purpose-built to handle heavy goods vehicles with wide lanes, high-speed pumps, and additional services such as AdBlue on pump (which is cheaper than bottled AdBlue in high volumes).
The biggest advantage of bunker cards is pricing. They are usually linked directly to the wholesale market, meaning fleet operators can benefit from lower, fixed weekly rates. For a fleet that consumes thousands, even tens of thousands, of litres of fuel per week, the savings are substantial compared to retail pump prices.
Bunker cards also provide operational efficiencies. They allow HGVs to refuel quickly and easily at sites located along key motorway and A-road routes, reducing downtime and maximising vehicle availability.
EV charge cards and hybrid fuel cards
Electric and hybrid fleets need different payment and reporting tools. EV charge cards and hybrid fuel cards let you manage petrol, diesel and electric charging from the same account. They remove the friction of multiple apps, receipts and manual claims.
An EV charge card, sometimes called an electric vehicle charge card, is a payment card for public charging points. Drivers tap the RFID card at a charger to start and stop a session. The charge is recorded and billed to the business. Modern EV cards also capture kWh data and session timestamps, so you know exactly what was used and when. That makes VAT, reconciliation and cost allocation straightforward.
Hybrid fuel cards combine traditional fuel access with EV charging on one account. This means they can be used in the same way as a ‘traditional’ fuel card (with a chip-and-pin or swipe function), and they contain an RFID that allows them to be used at compatible public EV charging points. If your fleet runs vans or cars with petrol, diesel and electric power, a hybrid card means one invoice, one reporting dashboard and one bill to manage. For many fleets, this is the simplest way to transition to electric without adding admin burden.
Prepaid or pay-as-you-go fuel cards
Prepaid cards, sometimes known as pay-as-you-go fuel cards, operate more like a debit card. Businesses load credit onto the card before it is used, which sets a clear spending limit for drivers.
These cards are particularly useful for new businesses, those with limited or no credit history, or companies that want to manage cash flow tightly. Prepaid fuel cards prevent overspending and eliminate the risk of unexpected bills at the end of the month.
Prepaid fuel cards provide control and predictability, which makes them a strong choice for smaller operators or businesses looking to start with a simple, low-risk solution.
How to choose the right fuel card
Choosing the right fuel card is not about picking the biggest brand or the first provider you come across. It is about matching the specific needs of your business with the features and coverage of a fuel card.
The wrong choice can mean limited coverage, hidden costs, or extra admin, while the right card can simplify your operations, reduce expenses, and support long-term growth.
When choosing your fuel card, here are the key factors to consider:
Understanding your business, or fleet
Start by considering the type of vehicles you operate and how they are used. A business with a handful of company cars travelling mostly in urban areas will have different needs compared to a long-haul HGV fleet.
Vans making regional deliveries may benefit from supermarket coverage, while international hauliers need cards that work at bunker sites across the motorway network. Electric or hybrid fleets bring their own requirements, such as access to public EV charging networks or home-charging reimbursement solutions.
Map your routes and coverage needs
Think about where your drivers actually fill up or charge. Coverage is one of the most critical factors in selecting a fuel card. A card with discounts at motorway service stations might be essential for HGV fleets, while a card offering access to supermarket forecourts may be better for local trades or SMEs looking to reduce costs.
For EV users, a card that connects to a wide charging network is more valuable than one tied to a single brand. Mapping your common routes against provider networks will show which cards truly cover your drivers’ needs.
Location
Local operators: If your vehicles stick to specific areas, choose a card with strong coverage near your routes. Our Fuel Site Locator Finder pinpoints fuel stations and highlights them by fuel card and network.
National businesses: For businesses doing national mileage or with depots in multiple towns, ensure your card covers key local stations to avoid detours. Again, you can check our Site Locator to find compatible fuel stations along your usual driving routes.
Routes
Long-distance travel: If your drivers cover vast distances or vary their routes, a multi-network fuel card (e.g., covering BP, Shell, and Esso) offers flexibility with nationwide access, ensuring you’re never far from a usable station.
Frequent route changes: Avoid downtime by selecting a card with extensive coverage to ensure stations are always nearby and minimise refuelling detours
Vehicle types
HGVs and Large Fleets: Heavy goods vehicles require truck-friendly sites with HGV fuel pumps, high canopies, dedicated parking, and AdBlue pumps. Right Fuel Card’s HGV-specific fuel cards include these facilities, and we’re ready to recommend the right fuel cards for those HGV operators.
Vans and Cars: Standard fuel cards and supermarket fuel cards are suitable for a smaller vehicle fleet, offering options for petrol or diesel, which is ideal for a local network.
Electric and Hybrid Fleets: Our hybrid ‘fuel and charge’ cards and EV charge cards provide access to thousands of UK charging points, perfect for fleets already on their decarbonisation journey.
Consider fuel card pricing models
Fuel card providers may offer fixed weekly prices, pump-price matching, or a combination of both. Fixed weekly pricing can deliver predictable savings compared to fluctuating forecourt prices, which is ideal for fleets consuming large volumes of fuel. Pump-price cards, on the other hand, offer flexibility and convenience, particularly for businesses with mixed or irregular fuelling patterns. Evaluate which model gives you the best balance of cost control and convenience.
Fixed Weekly Pricing: Ideal for high-volume fleets, fixed prices (linked to wholesale markets) offer savings on every litre of fuel versus the standard pump price, providing cost-saving certainty.
Pump Pricing: Hassle-free and widely accepted, pump-price cards are ideal for smaller fleets or those prioritising convenience over maximum savings, while still benefiting from easier administration with consolidated billing.
EV Charging Costs: Our EV cards provide access to a vast network of fast-charging stations, offering transparent billing that is consolidated with your fuel spend.
Look at the admin and reporting features
One of the biggest advantages of fuel cards is the reduction of paperwork, but not all providers make admin equally easy. A good fuel card should consolidate all transactions into a single, VAT-compliant invoice that can be paid via Direct Debit.
The reporting platform should let you explore data by vehicle, driver, or date, helping you identify trends, spot inefficiencies, and simplify reconciliation.
For electric fleets, make sure reporting includes kWh data and separate tracking for home and public charging.
Evaluate security and control
Fraud and misuse can be costly for businesses. Look for cards that use chip-and-PIN technology, transaction monitoring, and online portals where lost or stolen cards can be cancelled instantly. Many providers also allow spending limits, restrictions by fuel type, or even geographical controls. This helps you prevent abuse while giving drivers the access they need.
Factor in sustainability
With the UK moving toward a ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles, many fleets are beginning their transition to low-emission or electric vehicles. If sustainability is part of your business strategy, consider whether the fuel card supports alternative fuels such as HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), GTL (Gas-to-Liquid), or electric charging networks. A provider that can grow with you as your fleet evolves will save you the cost and hassle of switching later.
Customer service and account management
Cost and coverage are important, but so is support. A provider with UK-based account managers who understand your business can save you time and stress when problems arise. Quick responses, transparent communication, and flexibility in managing your account are often overlooked but vital in practice.
Balance short-term savings with long-term fit
It can be tempting to choose a card based solely on immediate discounts, but the cheapest headline rate is not always the most cost-effective. A card with slightly smaller discounts but better coverage, stronger reporting, and robust support may deliver greater value long-term. Focus on the total package, not just the price per litre.
Conclusion: The value of choosing the right fuel card
Fuel cards are far more than a convenient way to pay for petrol or diesel. They are strategic tools that can help businesses reduce costs, streamline administration, enhance security, and prepare for the transition to greener fleets.
Whether you manage a handful of company cars or a national HGV operation, the right card aligns with your routes, supports your drivers, and gives you visibility and control over one of your largest operating expenses.
This guide has explored what fuel cards are, how they work, the types available in the UK, and the benefits they bring to businesses of all sizes. We have also outlined the key factors to consider when selecting the right card, including coverage and pricing models, sustainability, and account management.
By taking the time to assess your fleet’s unique needs, you can ensure that your choice of fuel card delivers real value both now and in the future.
Ready to take the next step? Here’s how to apply
If you are ready to see how fuel cards can transform your fleet, getting started is straightforward. At Right Fuel Card, we help thousands of UK businesses, from sole traders to national fleets, find the right solution for their vehicles and routes.
Compare cards: Use our fuel card comparison tool to explore options tailored to your business, whether you need coverage at supermarket forecourts, nationwide HGV bunker sites, or access to the UK’s largest EV charging network.
Apply online: Complete your application in just a few minutes. Approvals are typically processed within 48 hours, with options available for businesses with or without an established credit history.
Start saving: Once approved, you will receive your cards in as little as 7–10 working days. From there, you can begin refuelling with confidence, knowing your spend is consolidated into a single VAT-compliant invoice and supported by transparent pricing.
If you’re unsure which card is right for you, our UK-based support team is on hand to answer your questions and recommend the best solution for your fleet.
By choosing the right fuel card, you are not just simplifying fuel payments; you are investing in efficiency, cost savings, and the future of your business.
Why choose Right Fuel Card?
At Right Fuel Card, we understand that no two businesses are the same. That’s why we provide more than just fuel cards; we deliver tailored solutions backed by transparent pricing, nationwide coverage, and expert support.
With access to 98% of UK fuel stations and the largest public EV charging network, we help fleets of every size stay on the move while keeping costs under control. Trusted by more than 25,000 businesses and rated “Excellent” on Trustpilot, we combine the reliability of leading fuel card networks with the personal service of a dedicated account manager.
When you choose Right Fuel Card, you gain more than a card; you gain a partner focused on helping your business save time, money, and effort every time you refuel or recharge.
