Fuel is the single largest expense for most small trucking companies and owner-operators, and with diesel prices continuing to rise, it’s harder than ever to maintain profitability. For years, many businesses relied on fuel card programs offered by big stations like Pilot, Flying J, Petro, and TA, hoping for savings. Unfortunately, these programs often come with higher base prices, hidden fees, and restrictions that leave smaller fleets overpaying for diesel.
It’s time for small trucking companies to take back control of their fuel costs. With ELD Hub’s fuel card program, you can save up to 20% on diesel, eliminate middlemen, and enjoy tools like real-time fuel price monitoring, fraud protection, credit lines, and more. Combined with fuel-saving best practices, ELD Hub is the ultimate solution for cutting fuel costs and improving operational efficiency.
The Problem with Big Station Fuel Discounts
While fuel card programs from big stations like Pilot and Flying J seem convenient, they often leave small trucking companies at a disadvantage. Here’s why:
1. Higher Base Prices:
• Big stations inflate their diesel prices, meaning even with a discount, you often pay more than you would at smaller stations.
2. Middlemen Fees:
• Many discount programs rely on brokers who take a cut of your savings, reducing the actual benefits.
3. Limited Flexibility:
• Discounts come with restrictive terms like minimum volume requirements or limited station networks, which don’t work well for small fleets.
Why Smaller Stations Are a Better Choice
Smaller stations like Speedway, Kwik Trip, and RaceTrac offer small trucking companies a more affordable alternative. Here’s why they’re the smart choice:
• Lower Base Prices: Smaller stations typically have more competitive pricing than large national chains.
• Convenient Locations: Strategically located along secondary routes, these stations reduce detours and idle time.
• Transparent Pricing: No inflated base prices masked by discounts—what you see is what you pay.
Switching to smaller stations is the first step to meaningful savings for small trucking companies.
How ELD Hub Saves You Money
ELD Hub is a comprehensive solution for managing fuel expenses. With its powerful fuel card program, you gain access to exclusive diesel discounts, advanced fuel management tools, and financial flexibility. Here’s how it works:
1. Diesel Fuel Discounts
• Save up to 20% on diesel at smaller stations like Speedway, Kwik Trip, and RaceTrac.
• Even when using larger stations like Petro, TA, Pilot, or Flying J, ELD Hub ensures competitive discounts.
2. Cut Out the Middlemen
• With ELD Hub, you deal directly with the fuel network—no brokers or third-party fees. All the savings go directly to your bottom line.
3. Real-Time Price Monitoring
• Use the free ELD Hub app to view real-time diesel prices on your route, compare stations, and choose the most cost-effective options.
4. Flexible Credit Line
• ELD Hub offers a 1-week credit line to small trucking companies, providing financial flexibility when cash flow is tight.
5. Fraud-Protected Fuel Card
• The ELD Hub fuel card functions like a credit card, offering:
• Fraud protection to secure your funds.
• Spending controls so you can set driver-specific credit limits.
• Transaction monitoring for transparency and reporting.
6. Simplified Fleet Management
• With ELD Hub’s online platform, you can:
• Monitor all fuel transactions.
• Adjust driver permissions.
• Analyze spending to identify cost-saving opportunities.
Fuel-Saving Best Practices for Small Trucking Companies
In addition to using ELD Hub’s fuel program, adopting these best practices will help you maximize every gallon and further reduce costs:
1. Optimize Routes
• Plan fuel-efficient routes using tools like ELD Hub’s route optimizer to avoid unnecessary detours and minimize idle time.
2. Reduce Idling
• Turn off engines during long stops and consider investing in auxiliary power units (APUs) to reduce idle fuel consumption.
3. Monitor Tire Pressure
• Proper tire inflation improves fuel efficiency and reduces wear, saving money over the long term.
4. Train Drivers on Smart Driving Habits
• Encourage consistent speeds, smooth acceleration, and cruise control usage to reduce fuel waste.
5. Perform Regular Maintenance
• Keep trucks in top shape by cleaning fuel injectors, replacing air filters, and ensuring proper alignment.
6. Avoid Deadhead Miles
• Use load boards and freight matching tools to minimize empty backhauls.
7. Refuel Strategically
• Use ELD Hub’s real-time price monitoring to find the cheapest stations along your route, avoiding high-priced locations.
8. Use Aerodynamic Enhancements
• Install trailer skirts, trailer tails, and low-rolling-resistance tires to reduce drag and improve mileage.
Real Savings in Action
Here’s how much you can save by combining ELD Hub’s fuel card program with smarter refueling:
• Big Station Example:
Base price = $4.20/gallon
Discount = $0.10
Final price = $4.10/gallon
• Small Station Example (Kwik Trip):
Base price = $3.80/gallon
Final price with ELD Hub discount = $3.60/gallon
That’s a $0.50 per gallon savings—or $50 for every 100 gallons. A fleet of just five trucks could save thousands of dollars each month.
Why ELD Hub Is the Future of Fuel Management
ELD Hub’s fuel card program is designed to meet the unique needs of small trucking companies and owner-operators. Here’s what sets it apart:
1. Diesel Fuel Discounts That Work for You: Save up to 20% on diesel without dealing with brokers or hidden fees.
2. Nationwide Coverage: Access discounts at small stations like Speedway and big names like Petro, TA, Pilot, and Flying J.
3. Flexible Payment Options: Take advantage of a 1-week credit line to keep your trucks running smoothly.
4. Driver Empowerment: Equip drivers with fraud-protected fuel cards and tools for smarter refueling decisions.
5. Easy Management: Track spending, monitor transactions, and optimize routes—all from one platform.
Conclusion
Fuel costs don’t have to cripple your business. With ELD Hub’s fuel card program, you can eliminate unnecessary middlemen, save up to 20% on diesel, and implement best practices to reduce fuel waste. Whether you’re fueling up at smaller stations like Speedway or need the convenience of big names like Petro and TA, ELD Hub ensures you always get the best deal.
Ready to take control of your fuel costs? Join ELD Hub today and start saving big on every gallon!
